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Acuario Rodadero Santa Marta: A Window to the Caribbean Sea

Discover the wonders of the Caribbean Sea at Acuario Rodadero Santa Marta, a unique aquarium and maritime museum with diverse marine life and Tairona exhibits.

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The Acuario Rodadero Santa Marta, established in 1965, is a captivating maritime museum and aquarium located in Inca Inca Cove. Accessible by boat, it showcases the diverse marine life of the Caribbean Sea with exhibits including sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and a museum featuring nautical equipment and Tairona artifacts.

A brief summary to Acuario Rodadero Santa Marta

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of the dolphin shows and feeding sessions.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Playa Blanca for a full day of sun, sea, and marine life.
  • Consider purchasing a combo ticket that includes boat transportation and entrance to the aquarium for cost savings.
  • Check the aquarium's website for the latest show schedules and special events before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    The primary way to reach Acuario Rodadero is by boat from El Rodadero beach. Head to the main beach in El Rodadero and look for the 'taximarino' or water taxi services. These small boats depart regularly for the aquarium. A round trip should cost approximately 30,000 COP (approximately $7.5 USD). The boat trip takes about 10-30 minutes, offering scenic views of the coastline.

  • Taxi

    From Santa Marta city center or the airport, a taxi to El Rodadero beach is the first step. Taxis from the Santa Marta airport to El Rodadero cost around 22,000 COP. From the historic center, a taxi to El Rodadero may cost around 20,000 COP, but confirm the fare before starting the trip. Once in El Rodadero, proceed to the main beach to catch a boat to the aquarium. Remember to factor in the additional boat fare of 30,000 COP round trip.

  • Walking

    If you are already in El Rodadero, you can walk to the departure point for the boats. From the beach promenade, head towards Carrera 1 (the main road). Walk along Carrera 1 until you reach Calle 7. Turn onto Calle 7, and you will find the boat departure point. This walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Acuario Rodadero Santa Marta

Acuario Rodadero Santa Marta, founded by Captain Francisco Ospina Navia, has been enchanting visitors since 1965, making it one of the first aquariums in South America. Nestled in Inca Inca Cove, near El Rodadero beach, this aquarium offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Caribbean. The aquarium features 13 pools that are directly connected to the Caribbean Sea, and 15 glass aquaria. These habitats are home to over 805 animals, 98% of which are native to the region, including sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of fish and crustaceans. Visitors can witness captivating dolphin shows and explore exhibits designed to educate and inspire ocean conservation. Beyond its marine displays, the Acuario Rodadero includes a museum with dissected specimens, nautical equipment, and a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Tairona culture, highlighting their historical connection to the sea. The Acuario Rodadero also functions as a Marine Wildlife Rescue Center, attending to over 3,000 specimens each year. This commitment extends to research, habitat conservation and rehabilitation of endangered marine species. Open from 9 am to 4 pm, the Acuario Rodadero is accessible via a short boat ride from El Rodadero beach, offering stunning coastal views along the way. It's a must-visit destination for families and individuals seeking an immersive and educational experience in Santa Marta.

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