Idealized African architecture makes this park feel like a Disney park.

In some ways, they out-Disney Disney itself.

The idealized African setting in Busch Gardens Tampa seems likely to be the reason why Disney's own animal park, when it opened later, would be more realistic and less fantasy-based.

The Egyptian section of the park.

There is a LOT of theming; just look at the walls.

The walkthrough of King Tut's tomb.

It's a somewhat small exhibit, but then again, it was a small tomb.

But what's there is extremely well-themed and fascinating.

Half-buried columns give testament to the desert burying everything.

Montu: one of the world's best inverted coasters.

You're almost guaranteed to not know which way is up.

Disney's Animal Kingdom would later open its own exhibit with hundred of African cichlids.

Still, BGT has more. There are THOUSANDS here!

This train seems to be inspired by Disney.

The train complete a circuit around the savannah.

They still have skyway buckets here!

The buckets offer good views of the animals on the savannah below.

Timbuktu offers another example of outstanding theming.

The Scorpion is not a well-themed (or particularly modern) roller-coaster.

But Timbuktu sure is pretty.

Cheetah Chase is a decent, but bare bones Wild Mouse coaster.

The interactive 3-D movie plays better to younger audiences; it's a bit silly at times.

Kumba spreads out across the landscape.

You learn to respect Kumba. It's a powerful roller coaster!

Lorikeet Landing gives visitors a chance to feed and pet some colorful birds.

The kids' zone of BGT has some fun rides for tots, and very minimal lines.

After kids play, adults want their turn. What better place than the Hospitality House, where free beer is given out?

Even the high-volume eateries at BGT are well-themed.