Discover the Wonders of AquaRio: A World-Class Aquarium in Rio de Janeiro
Explore AquaRio, South America's largest aquarium in Rio de Janeiro, featuring 8,000+ marine animals and interactive exhibits for an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to AquaRio
- Praça Muhammad Ali - Via Binário do Porto, s/n, Rio de Janeiro, Gamboa, State of Rio de Janeiro, 20220-360, BR
- +55213900-6670
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
AquaRio, situated in the colorful Gamboa district of Rio de Janeiro, stands as the largest marine aquarium in South America and a premier tourist attraction. This state-of-the-art facility houses over 8,000 animals from 350 different species, making it a haven for marine life enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can marvel at the mesmerizing underwater tunnels that provide a 360-degree view of the aquarium's inhabitants, including graceful sharks, majestic rays, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. The experience is not only visually stunning but also educational, with numerous interactive exhibits designed to engage and inform guests about marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts. As you wander through AquaRio, you will encounter various themed exhibits that replicate different aquatic environments, from vibrant coral reefs to the mysterious depths of the ocean. The aquarium also features touch tanks, where visitors can safely interact with some of the marine creatures, enhancing the educational aspect of your visit. Special programs and talks led by knowledgeable staff provide deeper insights into the behaviors and habitats of the animals on display. AquaRio is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and marine conservation, making it a meaningful destination for tourists looking to connect with nature. Plan your visit around the aquarium's operating hours to ensure you have ample time to explore all that this aquatic wonder has to offer.
Local tips
- Purchase your tickets online to avoid long queues at the entrance.
- Visit during weekdays to experience a less crowded environment.
- Check the schedule for feeding shows to witness the animals being fed.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning marine life and interactive exhibits.
- Take advantage of the educational programs available for a deeper understanding of marine conservation.
Getting There
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Car
From Serra dos Órgãos National Park, head towards the BR-040 highway. Take the BR-040 southbound towards Rio de Janeiro. After approximately 50 kilometers, take the exit toward Avenida Presidente Vargas. Continue on this road until you reach Praça Muhammad Ali, where AquaRio is located. Note that parking may be limited in the area, so be prepared to find street parking or nearby parking lots, which may incur additional costs.
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Public Transportation
To reach AquaRio from Serra dos Órgãos National Park using public transport, first take a bus from the park to the nearest major city, Teresópolis. From Teresópolis, take a bus to Rio de Janeiro. Buses run frequently, but check the schedule for the most accurate times. Once in Rio de Janeiro, you can take the metro to the 'Cinelandia' station and then transfer to a bus or take a taxi to Praça Muhammad Ali. Ensure you have some cash for bus fares, which are usually around BRL 4-5.
Attractions Nearby to AquaRio
- Morro da Saúde
- Rio Star
- Zona Portuária do Rio de Janeiro
- Institute of Research and New Black Memory
- MUHCAB - Museu da História e da Cultura Afro-Brasileira
- Etnias - Mural de Graffiti (Estúdio Kobra)
- Carnaval Experience
- Cais do Valongo
- Samba City
- Barracão do GRES Acadêmicos do Grande Rio
- Casa da Tia Ciata
- Hanging Garden of Valongo
- Pedra do Sal
- Largo de São Francisco da Prainha
- Church of Saint Francis of Prainha
Landmarks nearby to AquaRio
- Mosteiro de São Bento
- Royal Portuguese Reading Room
- Wall of Patromoria
- Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (CCBB)
- Arco do Teles
- Free Walker Tours
- Ladeira Frei Orlando
- Paço Imperial
- Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro
- Arco iris da lapa
- Circo Voador
- Arcos da Lapa | Aqueduto da Carioca
- Leviano Bar
- Boate Boas intenções - Lapa
- Largo das Neves