AquaRio Aquarium, Rio de Janeiro - fish in water
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AquaRio Aquarium Rio de Janeiro

4.6
·86k reviews·, Brazil

South America's largest aquarium, featuring an immersive underwater tunnel and diverse marine life. Fun for all ages!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better views

CrowdLow
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AquaRio Aquarium, Rio de Janeiro - fish in water

AquaRio Aquarium Rio de Janeiro

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

South America's largest aquarium, featuring an immersive underwater tunnel and diverse marine life. Fun for all ages!

4.6
(86k reviews)

"The tunnel at the end that you could walk through was amazing. You could see all the sea life swim around you!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive right at opening, especially on weekends, to beat the major crowds and enjoy the exhibits more peacefully.

🎟️ Combo Tickets: Buyer Beware

The wax museum and mirror experience might not be worth the extra cost for adults; consider just the aquarium ticket.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Underwater Tunnel

The Underwater Tunnel

Main Aquarium Circuit

Walk through a mesmerizing tunnel with sharks, rays, and fish swimming all around you. An immersive experience!

Reddit
Diverse Marine Life

Diverse Marine Life

Various Enclosures

Explore over 300 species and 4 million liters of water, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the ocean.

Instagram
Educational Exhibits

Educational Exhibits

Throughout the Aquarium

Learn about marine ecosystems and conservation efforts through engaging and informative displays.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

AquaRio can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy a more relaxed experience and better views of the marine life. Reddit

Ticket Options & Value

Standard aquarium tickets are available, but combo tickets including the wax museum and mirror experience are also offered. Reviewers suggest the combo might not be worth the extra cost for adults, but can be fun for younger children. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better views
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (Early)
Why
Catch the best exhibits
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

7 cosas que hacer en Río de Janeiro- Brasil 🇧🇷 te lo cuento en 1 minuto, más un bono extra #quehacerenriodejaneiro #panoramasriodejaneiro #Cristoredentor #aquario #viajestiktok #parati #estadiomaracanariodejaneiro #datosinteresantes #tipsdeviaje
@locasyviajerastravel
146.3K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive right at opening, especially on weekends, to beat the major crowds and enjoy the exhibits more peacefully. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Tickets: Buyer Beware

The wax museum and mirror experience might not be worth the extra cost for adults; consider just the aquarium ticket. Reddit

Descubra as belezas do AquaRio! 🌊🐟 Aqui você vive uma experiência única ao lado de mais de 10 mil animais marinhos, em um ambiente imersivo, educativo e encantador! Perfeito para todas as idades, o passeio une diversão e aprendizado e faz você se sentir no fundo do mar. 📍No coração do Rio de Janeiro, o maior aquário da América Latina te espera para momentos inesquecíveis! #AquaRio #RiodeJaneir...
aquariomarinhodorio
3.9K likes • 714.1K views
Educação que encanta e transforma!✨📚 No AquaRio, as visitas escolares ganham vida com roteiros personalizados e acompanhamento de educadores especializados. Entre atividades lúdicas e momentos de descoberta, os alunos exploram a biodiversidade marinha de forma imersiva e divertida. Mais do que uma aula fora da escola, essa é uma experiência que desperta a curiosidade, amplia conhecimentos e fort...
aquariomarinhodorio
0 likes • 13.8K views

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Fun

AquaRio is a hit with children! The tunnel and diverse species are captivating for younger visitors. TikTokReddit

🛍️ Gift Shops & Dining

There are two gift shops and food options available, with a larger one at the exit. Reddit

Um passeio incrível! 🪸✨ A @jennyduringg visitou o AquaRio e se encantou com o passeio. Ela resolveu trazer todas as dicas para você aproveitar também! Confira o vídeo e vem pro AquaRio! 🤩👆 #aquariomarinhodorio #riodejaneiro #oquefazernorio #vemproaquario
aquariomarinhodorio
0 likes • 62.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive right at opening, especially on weekends, to beat the major crowds and enjoy the exhibits more peacefully. Reddit

🎟️ Combo Tickets: Buyer Beware

The wax museum and mirror experience might not be worth the extra cost for adults; consider just the aquarium ticket. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Fun

AquaRio is a hit with children! The tunnel and diverse species are captivating for younger visitors. TikTokReddit

🛍️ Gift Shops & Dining

There are two gift shops and food options available, with a larger one at the exit. Reddit

📍 Location Convenience

Located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, making it an accessible attraction for tourists. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(86k reviews)

Reviews Summary

AquaRio is a large aquarium with a standout underwater tunnel that offers an immersive experience, particularly loved by children. While the marine life is impressive, some visitors find the overall experience a bit basic and note that it can get extremely crowded. The additional attractions like the wax museum receive mixed reviews regarding their value for money.

"Very basic aquarium. One tunnel to walk under was kind of cool, but again extremely crowded. Huge crowds took forever to walk through. Also has a mirror option experience, not worth it, maybe for little kids. Has a basic wax museum 1/3 of the pictures they have to take and you have to pay for. Would not do it again. Great for little kids though probably. Was $160 for 3 adults for all three experiences, wax aqua mirror."

Chris Anderson

"It was a great aquarium and the tunnel at the end that you could walk through was amazing. You could see all the sea life swim around you!! There’s two gift shops inside, one small one about half way through and a big one at the end. There’s also lots of fun things to do there because the aquarium is on the 3rd floor of building while there’s other activities on other floors!"

Jess Marshy

"Awesome aquarium. We had a lot of fun here. Lots of beautiful fish and other underwater creatures to see. The tunnel is really cool. If you have kids, they'll love it. They have a gift shop and eating area as well."

Kay-Kay M.

What People Like

Mesmerizing underwater tunnel
Diverse marine species
Great for kids

What People Dislike

Extremely crowded
Basic aquarium experience
Combo ticket value

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

AquaRio is located in the port area of Rio de Janeiro. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby. It's also accessible from the VLT (light rail) system. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at AquaRio, though it can get busy. It's advisable to check their official website for current parking rates and availability. Instagram

Yes, AquaRio is generally stroller-friendly, with ramps and elevators to navigate between floors. Instagram

For families, a taxi or ride-sharing service might be the most convenient option to avoid the hassle of public transport with children. Reddit

AquaRio is part of the revitalized port area, which is walkable. However, depending on your starting point, it might be a significant walk. Consider the VLT for easier access to nearby areas. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary. A standard adult ticket is around R$150, with children at R$75. Combo tickets are available but may not be worth the extra cost for adults. Check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing. TikTok

Yes, children typically receive a discounted ticket price. There have also been promotions offering free entry for children with a paying adult, so check for current deals. Instagram

It is highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially for promotions and to potentially save time queuing. Instagram

AquaRio's opening hours can vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check their official website for the most accurate and current operating schedule before your visit. Instagram

There isn't a strict time limit for your visit, allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, be mindful of opening and closing times. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The absolute highlight is the immersive underwater tunnel where marine life swims all around you. Don't miss the diverse species in the various tanks. InstagramReddit

While great for kids, adults can also enjoy AquaRio, especially the impressive tunnel and the variety of marine life. Some reviewers found the other attractions less compelling. Reddit

This is an additional attraction offered, often as part of a combo ticket. Reviews suggest it might be more appealing to very young children and not worth the extra cost for adults. Reddit

A typical visit can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each exhibit and if you opt for the additional attractions. Instagram

AquaRio focuses on immersive viewing experiences, particularly in its large tanks and the central tunnel. Educational displays also offer learning opportunities. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, AquaRio has food outlets and a dining area where you can purchase snacks and meals. There's also a large gift shop at the exit. Reddit

Expect typical aquarium fare like snacks, drinks, and possibly some light meal options. Some reviewers noted the irony of plastic-wrapped cotton candy being sold near conservation exhibits. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside major attractions like AquaRio. It's best to consume them before entering or purchase items from their concessions. Instagram

Concession prices at tourist attractions can be higher than average. It's advisable to budget accordingly if you plan to eat or snack inside. Reddit

Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's recommended to inquire at the food outlets upon arrival or check their website for menus if this is a concern. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside AquaRio. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals. Instagram

The underwater tunnel offers incredible photo opportunities with marine life swimming around. The large tanks also provide great backdrops. Reddit

For professional shoots, it's best to contact AquaRio's management in advance to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits. Instagram

Avoid using flash photography, especially near sensitive exhibits, as it can disturb the animals. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Instagram

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for capturing the ambiance inside the aquarium. A smartphone with a good camera will also work well. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

AquaRio is a fantastic destination for families. The underwater tunnel is a guaranteed hit, offering an immersive experience where kids can see sharks and rays up close. TikTokReddit The sheer variety of fish and marine creatures will keep young minds engaged and curious. Many reviewers highlight that children absolutely love the aquarium, making it a top choice for family outings in Rio de Janeiro. Reddit

Consider purchasing tickets in advance, and look out for promotions offering free entry for children with a paying adult, as these can significantly reduce costs. Instagram While the combo tickets with the wax museum might be extra, they can add to the fun for younger children. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore without rushing, and utilize the on-site dining options for convenience. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, focus on purchasing standard aquarium tickets rather than combo packages that include the wax museum or mirror experience, as these may not offer the best value for adults. Reddit Visiting on a weekday can sometimes mean slightly lower ticket prices or fewer crowds, making the experience more enjoyable without additional cost. Reddit Look for any available online discounts or special promotions, especially those targeting residents of Rio de Janeiro or specific times of the year. Instagram

While there are food outlets inside, bringing your own snacks and water (if permitted) or planning to eat before or after your visit can help save money. Reddit The main draw, the aquarium itself, offers significant value through its impressive collection and the unique underwater tunnel experience, which is the core of the visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Marine Wonders

AquaRio boasts the title of the largest aquarium in South America, housing an impressive collection of marine life. Visitors can marvel at over 300 species across 28 enclosures, including sharks, rays, and a vibrant array of fish. The sheer volume of water, totaling 4 million liters, creates a truly immersive environment. Instagram The star attraction is undoubtedly the underwater tunnel, a transparent passage that allows you to feel as though you're walking on the ocean floor, surrounded by the aquatic world. Reddit

Beyond the visual spectacle, AquaRio aims to be an educational hub. The aquarium features exhibits that highlight the biodiversity of the oceans and touch upon important conservation themes, such as the impact of plastic waste. Instagram While some visitors have noted that the educational aspects could be more prominent, the sheer scale and variety of species offer a powerful visual lesson in marine ecosystems. For families, this provides a fantastic opportunity to spark curiosity and learning in children about the underwater world. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider that AquaRio can become extremely crowded, particularly on weekends. Reddit Arriving early or visiting on a weekday is highly recommended to fully appreciate the exhibits without being overwhelmed by crowds. The layout is designed for a flowing experience, with gift shops and dining options strategically placed throughout. Reddit

Beyond the Tanks: Additional Attractions

AquaRio is more than just its marine exhibits; it's situated within a larger complex offering additional entertainment. One of the bundled attractions is a wax museum, featuring figures that visitors can pose with for photos. Reddit While this can be a fun addition, especially for younger visitors, some reviews suggest that the quality and relevance of the wax figures might not appeal to everyone, and it's often considered an optional add-on. Reddit

Another experience offered is the 'mirror option,' which likely refers to a mirror maze or illusion-based attraction. Reddit Similar to the wax museum, its appeal is subjective and often geared towards children. The value proposition of these additional attractions as part of a combo ticket has been questioned by some adult visitors, who felt the aquarium itself was the main draw. Reddit

It's worth noting that AquaRio is located on the third floor of a building, with other activities potentially available on different levels. Reddit This integrated approach means visitors can potentially spend more time in the area, exploring various forms of entertainment. However, for those solely interested in the aquarium, it's wise to carefully consider the ticket options to ensure you're paying for what you truly want to experience. Reddit

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