Ypres (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Amazonia, a €14 million ride at Bellewaerde, faced multiple technical issues leading to evacuations. Initially closed for repairs, it shut down again in August 2024. Spokesman Filip Van Dope is optimistic about reopening by April 5, 2025.
Amazonia, a new whitewater ride, was announced in April. It features a special lift and other elements, making it unique. Costing 14 million euros, it is the park’s most expensive project yet. Many visitors are excited to try this.
What are the ongoing issues with the Amazonia ride at Ypres’ Bellewaerde Park?
Shortly after it opened, the Amazonia ride had many technical problems. These issues caused several evacuations, which worried both visitors and park management. Because the problems continued, the park decided to close the ride for a month so technicians could fix it. Although this closure was a setback, the park prioritized safety and worked hard to make sure the ride would run smoothly when it reopened.
By the summer holidays, everything seemed fine, but problems arose again, and Bellewarde decided to close the Amazonia ride at the start of August. Since then, it has been out of service, and it looks like it won’t open again until the next season starts. However, spokesman Filip Van Dope is hopeful about the ride’s future, saying that tests have gone well. They are getting ready for Halloween in the park, which will still be fun without Amazonia. He added that the ride should be prepared by the new season starting on April 5.
