As it celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, Italy's Gardaland Resort is set to unveil two newly themed experiences: Animal Treasure Island and Dragon Empire.

The classic water-based dark ride I Corsari will be transformed into Animal Treasure Island for the park's golden anniversary, an exclusive international premiere.

Replacing their Kung Fu Panda Academy land, Dragon Empire will be a newly themed area of Gardaland. Let the spirit of the dragon guide you as you dance, as if a New Year started every day!

Animal Treasure Island

This innovative addition to the park will be the first of its kind within the Merlin Entertainments group, offering visitors an immersive adventure through a newly developed intellectual property (IP) by Merlin Magic Making.

Gardaland, renowned for its thrilling rides and attractions, will be the exclusive location for the debut of Animal Treasure Island, which is part of a broader international rollout plan by Merlin Entertainments. The park’s CEO, Sabrina de Carvalho, expressed immense pride in this major milestone: “We are proud that Merlin has chosen Italy and Gardaland for the launch of Animal Treasure Island,” she shared. “It will be a new and immersive experience that is suitable for everyone, characterized by an adventurous spirit and a fascinating, awe-inspiring setting.”

With an investment of approximately €10m, Animal Treasure Island promises to be an unforgettable addition to Gardaland’s extensive array of attractions. The immersive water-based dark ride, which spans over 6,000 square metres, takes guests on a thrilling underground adventure filled with twenty captivating and highly engaging scenes. Combining storytelling, cutting-edge technology, and creative set design, this experience will transport visitors into a mysterious world of treasure hunts, brave heroes, and daring villains.

The story of Animal Treasure Island is built around timeless themes such as the struggle between good and evil, offering guests an emotional journey through a dynamic narrative full of twists and turns. The adventure will be brought to life by a cast of original characters designed by Merlin's studios. These characters will play key roles in drawing visitors into the story, adding depth to the experience and enhancing the sense of immersion. According to de Carvalho, this blend of adventure, drama, and captivating characters will undoubtedly resonate with guests: “We are sure that our visitors will appreciate this new iconic experience.”

Dragon Empire

The Kung Fu Panda Academy area of the park previously featured two attractions, the Kung Fu Panda Master roller coaster and Mr Ping's Noodle Surprise teacups.

New names for the two attractions have yet to be confirmed. Kung Fu Panda Master is a steel spinning 'wild mouse' ride by Italian company Fabbri. Mr Ping's Noodle Surprise was built by German manufacturer Mack Rides.

Kung Fu Panda Academy opened in 2016, based on the popular DreamWorks Animation IP, and featured popular characters from the film franchise, including Po, the loveable protagonist, and his friend Tigress.