AquaRio is a public aquarium in Gamboa, in Rio de Janeiro’s port district. Its tanks hold marine life from different habitats, with information panels in Portuguese and English. The main draw is the walk-through tunnel, where sharks and rays swim overhead. Look out for the display comparing jellyfish with plastic bags, which explains why turtles can mistake plastic for food. There are also souvenir shops and places to buy snacks inside, making this a practical indoor stop on a rainy day or a family outing.
The aquarium in Gamboa
AquaRio is in Gamboa, in Rio de Janeiro’s port district, at Praça Muhammad Ali. The public aquarium occupies a large, five-storey building. Its exhibits focus on marine life and habitats, with panels in Portuguese and English to explain what you are seeing.
The aquarium is an indoor option for a day when rain interrupts plans outdoors. Families can explore the exhibits at their own pace, and there are snack outlets and souvenir shops inside.
The tunnel and the exhibits
The walk-through tunnel is the main draw. Sharks and rays move through the water above you, giving you a view of the larger animals from below. Several visitors identify this final tank as the highlight, so leave time for it rather than rushing through the earlier displays.
Among the smaller exhibits, look for the comparison between jellyfish and plastic bags. It explains how turtles can confuse plastic with jellyfish, part of their diet. The bilingual information panels also cover marine animals such as sharks and turtles.
Planning your visit
A visit can take about an hour. A midweek trip may be less crowded than a busy weekend or Carnival period. Ticket rates differ for Rio residents and tourists, so check which category applies when arranging admission. Advance tickets are recommended.
There are food and drink outlets and souvenir shops inside the aquarium. The aquarium is also near other attractions in the port area, including the Museum of Tomorrow, though the material here does not give walking distances between them.
FAQ
Where is AquaRio?
AquaRio is in Gamboa, in Rio de Janeiro’s port district, at Praça Muhammad Ali.
How long does a visit take?
Allow about one hour for a typical visit.
What is the main attraction inside AquaRio?
The walk-through tank is the main draw, with sharks and rays swimming overhead.
Are the exhibits described in English?
Yes. Information panels are in Portuguese and English.
