Edge of Africa is the true heart of Busch Gardens. It's a walk-through attraction right in the middle of the park that houses the major animals that people come to Busch Gardens to see - lions, giraffes, zebras and more. As soon as you walk through the entrance to the preserve you're transported into a whole different continent entirely. It really does feel as if you've stepped out of Florida and right into Africa. If you're looking for an authentic experience without the expensive airfare, Busch Gardens is the way to go!
Located in the Nairobi section of the park, the entire area was set up to look like the camp of African researchers who were on a special safari through the savanna. The first thing you'll see on your "tour of Africa" is the pelicans, flamingos, and other birds located in a big pond at the entrance of the exhibit. The birds were all very unique and colorful, and a lot of fun to watch. Right next to the birds are the meerkats. My brother and I always watch Meerkat Manor on the Discovery Channel so it was fun to see them in person. They were adorable and playful, and lots of fun to watch.
Across from the Meerkats was a lone vulture. At first its head was tucked under its wing so it looked like some headless beast, but it eventually lifted its head and was really cool to see. Also in the area were an array of zebras and giraffes; I love those zebras and giraffes! They were beautiful and fascinating to watch. They're both so graceful and gorgeous.
As you make your way farther into the Edge of Africa you'll eventually come across the lions. Regardless of what zoo or theme park we're in, the lions are always just lying around and this time was no different. The lioness was lying right up against the glass of the exhibit and it was amazing to see her up close. This was the closest I've ever gotten to see a lion and it was a great experience. A few feet away was the hyena exhibit, and this hyena was just lying on his side, sleeping. It was very strange seeing the hyena so close - you always think of them as scary scavengers, but they looked just like really big dogs!
The last part of Edge of Africa is a giant tropical fish tank. The water was crystal clear and perfectly blue, and there were hundreds of colorful fish swimming around in various schools. It was gorgeous! Floating on top of the water were a few big, lazy hippos that were fun to watch. It was a beautiful area.
The Edge of Africa simply cannot be missed on your trip to Busch Gardens. It's a colorful, exotic and mysterious walk-through attraction full of amazing animals, excellent theming, and a few unexpected surprises. The Serengeti Express train ride brings you through the heart of the savanna, but there are different attractions worth seeing here. Be sure to do both for the complete experience, and allow at least 45-minutes here to see everything.
From journal Busch Gardens Tampa: It's a Wild World