Roar Feel the earth tremble beneath your feet. You stand before Cheetah House a marvel of engineering and animal conservation. This isn’t just a building it’s a testament to Busch Gardens’ dedication.
Cheetah House is more than a simple enclosure. It’s part of a larger project Cheetah Hunt. This thrilling roller coaster opened in 2011 alongside the habitat. The coaster’s design was inspired by a Star Wars scene. Imagine speeder bikes soaring through the forest. That’s the feeling Cheetah Hunt aims for.
The coaster’s creation took seven years. Many manufacturers were considered. Intamin was finally chosen for its innovative LSM launch system. This allowed for multiple launches without a traditional lift hill. This innovative approach makes the ride unique. The original name for the coaster was “Cheetaka”. It was deemed too difficult to pronounce. Hence the change to the now iconic “Cheetah Hunt”.
Construction was a massive undertaking. It involved rerouting the Serengeti Express and closing the Skyride. The park launched a teaser campaign to build anticipation. Videos and photos were released online. The public was captivated. The finished coaster is a masterpiece. It weaves through the park. It even goes under the Serengeti Plain. Several trenches were dug. Bridges had to be built.
Cheetah Hunt is not your average coaster. It features three powerful LSM launches. Riders reach speeds up to 60 mph. The coaster also includes a figure-eight element called the Windcatcher Tower. A heartline roll adds an exhilarating twist. The ride ends with a series of near misses through a rocky gorge.
The Cheetah Run exhibit houses cheetahs brought from Florida and South Africa. The animals even got accustomed to the sounds of the coaster during construction. Cheetah Run provides a unique perspective. It allows visitors to observe these incredible animals up close. Guests can watch them sprint across a 220-foot track.
Cheetah Hunt received numerous awards. It was even ranked the second best new ride of 2011. This impressive feat cemented its place in coaster history. The ride continues to thrill visitors. It’s a testament to the creative minds behind its creation. And the cheetahs well they are just the perfect addition to this exciting attraction. This isn’t just a roller coaster. It’s a captivating experience. An unforgettable journey through the wild heart of Busch Gardens.