AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium is a freshwater aquarium and vivarium on Route de Berne in Lausanne, a short metro ride from the city centre. The visit follows a trail across five continents, from the glacial history of Lake Geneva to the Amazon, with tanks and terrariums that recreate each habitat. Tropical rooms, a tunnel passing crocodiles and snakes, and monkeys seen up close make it a full morning or afternoon out. Each station has a screen with the animal's common name, Latin name, size and a short description.
A freshwater trail across five continents
The route opens with Switzerland as a freshwater reservoir for Europe. Exhibits explain the glacial periods that shaped Lake Geneva and the Rhône, then move on to the evolution of species that still show traits of prehistoric animals.
From there the trail moves to crocodiles and vipers from Africa and Asia, a Komodo dragon, and the plants and animals of the Amazon forest. In total, the visit covers around 20 different aquatic ecosystems from five continents, including a poisonous snake and other land animals alongside the water life.
Inside the building
The building stands in the north of Lausanne, near Vennes, and has a spherical facade that looks covered in shimmering fish scales. Inside, the sections cover about 3,500 square metres.
Mirrors and blue lights create the atmosphere in the halls. The tropical room is kept at a climate meant to match its habitat. Interactive displays and cutting-edge technology guide you from one ecosystem to the next, and the tunnel lets you pass the crocodiles and snakes at close range.
Conservation and learning
Some of the animals are part of conservation work, and the site shows how wildlife is released back into its natural habitats. Documentaries on topics such as climate change are shown during the visit.
The site runs workshops for children and teens and guided tours for adults. These focus on the environmental challenges that freshwater ecosystems face, which makes the visit useful for families and for anyone who wants a closer look at the species.
Planning the visit
A cafe and a gift shop are on site, along with a playground for younger visitors. The site also offers birthday visits for children and tours.
The entrance, seating and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. Because the trail is long and the sections are many, a slow pace on a quieter day gives the most time at each tank.
FAQ
How long do you need at AQUATIS?
Plan 2 to 3 hours. The trail covers many sections and species, so a slower pace gives more time at each tank.
Is AQUATIS suitable for children?
Yes. The site is listed as good for kids and has a playground. Workshops for children and teens are held there, and children can see amphibians and invertebrates up close.
Should I book tickets in advance?
The site recommends getting tickets in advance. Weekends bring more families, and the ticket counter can be busy at peak times.
Is AQUATIS wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, seating and parking lot are listed as wheelchair accessible.
Where is AQUATIS and how do I get there?
It is at Route de Berne 144, Lausanne. The site is about 10 minutes from the city centre and is easy to reach by metro.
