Butantan Institute
1 / 10

Butantan Institute

4.8
·2k reviews·, Brazil

Explore a world-class biomedical research center, home to fascinating venomous creatures and vital vaccine history. Discover science and nature in São...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Butantan Institute

Butantan Institute

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a world-class biomedical research center, home to fascinating venomous creatures and vital vaccine history. Discover science and nature in São Paulo's green oasis.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"Amazing, it’s a visit to an education campus, for less than 2 USD, ridiculous amount of snakes. Highly recommended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Affordable Admission

Enjoy extensive exhibits for a minimal fee, often around R$6 for adults and R$2.50 for students.

🐍 Reptile Encounters

Don't miss the impressive collection of live snakes, vipers, and spiders – a highlight for many visitors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Museum of Biological Collection

Museum of Biological Collection

Main Campus

Home to an astonishing array of snakes, spiders, and scorpions, offering a close-up look at Brazil's venomous wildlife.

Reddit
Vaccine and History Museum

Vaccine and History Museum

Main Campus

Delve into the history of vaccine development and the institute's crucial role in public health, including its work on COVID-19.

TikTok
Science Park

Science Park

Main Campus

A sprawling, beautiful green space perfect for a leisurely walk, offering a refreshing escape and a glimpse into the institute's expansive grounds.

TikTok
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Butantan Institute

Discover the Butantan Institute, a vital biomedical research center in São Paulo. Explore its museums, learn about vaccine development, and marvel at its extensive collection of venomous creatures. Plan for a few hours to fully immerse yourself in this educational and fascinating destination. TikTok

Tickets and Access

The Butantan Institute offers incredible value with a low admission fee, making it an accessible attraction for all. While the science park is free, a ticket grants access to its four museums. Be prepared for a small fee, often payable in cash or Pix. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, good for families.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

MC Fioti - Vacina Butantan - Remix Bum Bum Tam Tam (KondZilla)#kondzilla #MCFioti #funk
@funk.2024
106.2K likes • 929.4K views

🎯 Affordable Admission

Enjoy extensive exhibits for a minimal fee, often around R$6 for adults and R$2.50 for students. Reddit

🐍 Reptile Encounters

Don't miss the impressive collection of live snakes, vipers, and spiders – a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Vlog do Gabs? Eh isso! #Vlog #butantan #dicas #saopaulo
@gabrielbernardu
28K likes • 184.8K views
Experiência Bilingue no Instituto Butantã dos alunos da escola Global Me @globalme.school Bilingual Experience at the Butantan Institute for Global Me School Students
sdstudenttravel
46 likes • 1.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

The science park is a beautiful, expansive area perfect for a relaxing walk and enjoying the greenery. TikTok

📚 Educational Experience

Learn about vital biomedical research, vaccine history, and public health contributions. TikTok

We are waiting for you in Brazil for the XXII World Congress of Malacology WCM, which will take place between August 4 and 8 at the Butantan Institute in São Paulo. The terminal discount registrations at the end of April 🔗 Link for registrations on our website: wcm2025.com.br . Estamos te esperando no Brasil para o XXII World Congress of Malacology WCM, que acontecerá entre os dias 4 e 8 de agos...
malacologiabrasil
190 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Affordable Admission

Enjoy extensive exhibits for a minimal fee, often around R$6 for adults and R$2.50 for students. Reddit

🐍 Reptile Encounters

Don't miss the impressive collection of live snakes, vipers, and spiders – a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

The science park is a beautiful, expansive area perfect for a relaxing walk and enjoying the greenery. TikTok

📚 Educational Experience

Learn about vital biomedical research, vaccine history, and public health contributions. TikTok

🚲 Bike-Friendly Paths

The large campus offers ample space for cycling, making it a great spot for an active visit. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Butantan Institute for its incredible value, extensive exhibits, and the fascinating collection of venomous animals. Many highlight the affordability and the educational experience, making it a top recommendation for families and science enthusiasts alike. Some minor points of improvement could include clearer signage for specific exhibits.

"It’s a good place to visit with your family.
Admission fee is only 6 BRL per adult.
Student is 2.50 BRL as of June, 2023.
There are a lot of exhibitions including virus, vaccine, snakes and others. You can enjoy it for hours."

Papipupenta

"amazing, it’s a visit to an education campus, for less than 2 USD, access to multiple buildings, ridiculous amount of snakes. All of the staff are super nice and spoke multiple languages. Highly recommended, Sao Paolo number 1 attraction."

Yang Ni

"Great place to see reptiles and amphibians. There are lots of snakes, some outdoors in exhibits, and a beautiful place to walk around."

zachary ward

What People Like

Incredible value for money
Fascinating venomous animal collection
Educational vaccine history exhibits

What People Dislike

Occasional signage clarity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Butantan Institute is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby, and the Butantã metro station is a short walk away. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. TikTok

While specific parking details can vary, the institute's expansive grounds suggest some parking options may be available. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information. TikTok

Yes, the institute's large campus is very bike-friendly, with plenty of space to ride around and explore. TikTok

The science park offers a beautiful place to walk, and many of the exhibits are designed to be accessible. However, it's always a good idea to contact the institute directly for specific accessibility information regarding all areas. TikTok

Taking the metro to Butantã station is a convenient option. From there, it's a short walk or a quick bus ride to the institute. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the science park is free, but there's a small fee for access to the four museums, typically around R$6 for adults and R$2.50 for students as of mid-2023. Payment is often accepted in cash or Pix. TikTokReddit

The science park is generally open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM. Museum hours may vary, so it's recommended to check the official Butantan Institute website for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

For general visits to the science park, advance booking is usually not required as it's free. For museum access, it's best to check the official website, though typically tickets can be purchased on-site. TikTok

Yes, students often receive a discounted admission fee. It's always a good idea to inquire about any available discounts when purchasing your ticket. Reddit

While some sources mention cash or Pix as payment methods, it's advisable to confirm if credit card payments are accepted at the ticket counter. TikTok

🎫 🐍 Venomous Animals

The Butantan Institute is renowned for its extensive collection of venomous animals, including a wide variety of snakes, vipers, spiders, and scorpions. TikTokReddit

Absolutely. The exhibits are designed with safety as a top priority, featuring secure enclosures and informative displays. The institute is a world-renowned research center for these animals. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Butantan Institute is a leading producer of antivenom, and many lives have been saved by their work. This is a significant part of their contribution to public health. TikTok

While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, the staff are often noted as being very helpful and knowledgeable. Inquire on-site about the possibility of guided tours or educational talks. Reddit

Yes, the institute's collection includes scorpions, alongside snakes and spiders, offering a comprehensive look at Brazil's venomous fauna. Reddit

🎫 🔬 Research & Vaccines

The Butantan Institute is a major biomedical research center focused on developing vaccines, serums, and other biological products. They are particularly known for their work on infectious diseases and venomous animals. TikTokInstagram

The institute has a long history of developing crucial vaccines, including those for rabies, and notably played a significant role in the development and production of COVID-19 vaccines. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Butantan Institute was a key player in the production and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in Brazil, notably through its partnership with Sinovac. Instagram

The Vaccine and History Museum at the Butantan Institute offers detailed insights into the evolution of vaccine development and the institute's contributions to public health. TikTok

Yes, the Butantan Institute is involved in research related to dengue, including the development of potential dengue vaccines. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, especially in the science park and for personal use. However, it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions within museum exhibits. Instagram

Visitors describe it as an educational campus with beautiful, historic buildings and vast green spaces. It's a place that combines scientific learning with a pleasant environment for exploration. TikTokReddit

You can easily spend several hours exploring the museums and the science park. Many visitors find it engaging enough to enjoy for a full afternoon. TikTok

The institute occasionally hosts events, including scientific congresses like the World Congress of Malacology. It's worth checking their official calendar for any upcoming special exhibitions or events. Instagram

It offers a unique blend of scientific discovery, historical significance, and a chance to see fascinating wildlife, all at an incredibly affordable price. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Butantan Institute is a fantastic destination for families. The Science Park offers plenty of space for kids to run around and explore, making it a fun outing. The Museum of Biological Collection, with its impressive array of snakes and spiders, is often a huge hit with children, sparking their curiosity about the natural world in a safe and educational way. TikTokReddit

Consider purchasing the combined ticket to access all four museums, which provides hours of engaging content. The Vaccine and History Museum can also be adapted for younger audiences by focusing on the visual aspects and the importance of health. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for walking and perhaps a stroller for younger children, as the grounds are quite extensive. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Butantan Institute is an absolute gem. The Science Park is free to enter, offering a beautiful space to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Even with the museum ticket, the admission fee is remarkably low, making it one of São Paulo's most affordable attractions. TikTokReddit

This low cost provides access to a wealth of knowledge and fascinating exhibits, including a vast collection of venomous animals and insights into crucial vaccine development. It’s an opportunity to experience a world-class research institution and its public-facing attractions without breaking the bank. Reddit

🔬 Science Enthusiasts & Students

The Butantan Institute is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in biology, medicine, and public health. The Vaccine and History Museum offers a deep dive into the scientific advancements and historical context of disease prevention, while the Museum of Biological Collection provides invaluable insights into zoology and toxicology. TikTokReddit

Students, in particular, will find the institute an excellent resource for learning. The affordable student ticket price makes it accessible for educational trips, and the wealth of information presented can supplement academic studies. The institute also occasionally hosts scientific congresses, indicating its active role in the scientific community. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Butantan Institute: A Hub of Biomedical Innovation

The Butantan Institute is far more than just a tourist attraction; it's a globally recognized biomedical research center with a rich history. Founded in 1901, its primary mission has been to develop vaccines, serums, and other biological products crucial for public health. It gained significant international recognition for its work in producing antivenom for snakebites, saving countless lives across Brazil and beyond. TikTokInstagram

In recent years, the institute has been at the forefront of vaccine development and production, notably its collaboration with Sinovac for the COVID-19 vaccine. This underscores its ongoing commitment to addressing global health challenges. Visitors can explore this legacy through the Vaccine and History Museum, which details the institute's pivotal role in combating diseases and advancing medical science. TikTokInstagram

Beyond its research, the Butantan Institute also serves as an important educational resource. Its expansive campus and museums provide a unique opportunity for the public to learn about biology, public health, and the importance of scientific research. The institute's dedication to both scientific advancement and public education makes it a truly remarkable institution. TikTok

Exploring the Venomous Wildlife of Butantan

One of the most captivating aspects of the Butantan Institute is its extensive collection of venomous animals. The Museum of Biological Collection houses an impressive array of snakes, spiders, and scorpions, offering visitors a rare and educational glimpse into Brazil's diverse and often misunderstood fauna. Reddit

These exhibits are not just for display; they are integral to the institute's research. By studying these creatures, scientists at Butantan develop vital antivenoms and gain deeper insights into toxicology and biodiversity. The carefully managed enclosures ensure both the safety of visitors and the well-being of the animals, making it a responsible and fascinating experience. TikTok

Visitors often express awe at the sheer number and variety of reptiles and arachnids on display. It's a chance to confront common fears and appreciate the intricate adaptations of these creatures, all within a safe and educational environment. The staff's knowledge and the clarity of the exhibits enhance the learning experience. Reddit

The Butantan Science Park: An Oasis in the City

The Science Park at the Butantan Institute offers a refreshing contrast to the scientific exhibits, providing a beautiful and expansive green space for visitors to enjoy. It's a place where nature and science coexist, allowing for a more relaxed and leisurely exploration of the institute's grounds. TikTok

With its large, well-maintained areas, the park is ideal for a peaceful stroll, a picnic, or even a bike ride. The presence of historic buildings interspersed with lush vegetation creates a unique and picturesque environment. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after immersing yourself in the museum exhibits, offering a chance to appreciate the scale and beauty of the institute's campus. TikTok

Many visitors highlight the park as a significant part of their experience, appreciating the opportunity to connect with nature within the urban landscape of São Paulo. It’s a testament to the institute's commitment to preserving green spaces and offering a holistic visitor experience that goes beyond just scientific displays. TikTok

You may also like