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What is AquaRio Marinho do Rio?

Visitors observing fish through a glass tunnel at the Rio de Janeiro aquarium.

​AquaRio is South America’s largest marine aquarium, right in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. Imagine stepping into a world where neon fish, shimmering rays, and gentle sharks glide around you as if you’ve just wandered into an underwater dream. From massive tanks to interactive zones, it’s a playground for anyone curious about the ocean.

Why is AquaRio a must-visit

Child reaching towards fish in aquarium tunnel.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or dragging a hyperactive kid along, AquaRio delivers wow moments at every turn. Picture walking through a transparent tunnel as a school of manta rays swoops above your head or pausing to watch jellyfish pulse like living neon lights. It’s Instagram-worthy, educational, and yes, it’s that rare kind of place that makes you feel small, inspired, and ridiculously happy all at once.

Highlights of AquaRio Rio

Tourist walking through aquarium tunnel surrounded by sharks.

Oceanic Tunnel

Step into a 28-meter-long transparent tunnel that lets you walk under the ocean. Sharks glide overhead, rays pass gracefully by, and fish swirl around you in every color imaginable. It’s the kind of moment that makes even adults grin like kids.

Tropical fish swimming among lush plants at Amazonia Life Aquarium
Colorful coral reef with tropical fish at Sea Life London.
Jellyfish swimming in a tank at aquario
Hands of people touching a starfish during a marine life tour.

Marine animals of AquaRio

Shark swimming with fish at AquaRio aquarium, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Sharks

Meet the sleek sand tiger, blacktip reef, and lemon sharks gliding through the tanks like underwater rock stars. Their power and elegance make the Oceanic Tunnel one of AquaRio’s biggest crowd-pleasers.

Rays swimming at Aquario

Rays

Watch giant rays and manta rays glide effortlessly through the water, their wings rippling like silk in motion. They often swim overhead in the tunnel, giving you that cinematic “under the sea” moment.

Sea turtle swimming in aquario

Sea turtles

Slow, curious, and photogenic, the green sea turtles at AquaRio are known to swim up close to the glass like they’re saying hi. They’re natural scene-stealers and a hit with kids.

Glowing jellyfish in aquario aquarium

Jellyfish

In their softly glowing tanks, moon jellyfish and lion’s mane jellyfish pulse gently, creating a mesmerizing, dreamlike scene. It’s less an exhibit and more an art installation made by nature.

Giant Pacific octopus at aquario

Octopuses

You’ll find common octopuses curling and camouflaging their way through the rocks. Their intelligence and curiosity make them one of AquaRio’s most fascinating residents.

Clownfish swimming at aquario

Tropical fish

Spot clownfish, angelfish, tangs, and parrotfish darting around bright coral reefs. Their colors and patterns create a vivid underwater mural, perfect for those Insta-perfect photos.

Seahorses swimming in an aquarium exhibit.

Seahorses

Delicate and elegant, seahorses curl their tails around seagrass and drift gracefully in pairs. They’re a quiet reminder that the ocean is full of gentle beauty, too.

Starfish at Lisbon Oceanarium with colorful marine background.

Starfish

At the interactive zone, you can get hands-on with starfish, hermit crabs, and sea urchins—under supervision, of course. It’s fun, educational, and surprisingly relaxing.

Brief history of AquaRio

AquaRio opened its doors in 2016, part of a bigger effort to revitalize Rio’s Port area. Designed as a hub for marine education, conservation, and fun, it quickly became one of Rio’s top attractions, proving that aquariums can be thrilling, interactive, and a little bit magical all at once.

Visitor observing colorful fish at Aquarium of the Pacific.

Who built AquaRio?

AquaRio was developed by a team of Brazilian architects, engineers, and marine experts, with contributions from international aquarium designers. The goal was to create a state-of-the-art facility that could hold tens of thousands of gallons of water, all while giving visitors a front-row seat to the ocean’s wonders.

Museum of Tomorrow with Santos Dumont's 14 Bis replica in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Architecture of AquaRio

From the outside, AquaRio looks like a sleek, futuristic cruise ship docked at Rio’s port, but inside it’s pure underwater magic. The massive tanks are connected by transparent tunnels and elevated walkways, giving visitors the feeling of floating through the ocean. Every corner is designed to bring you closer to the marine life—from immersive viewing galleries to interactive touch pools. It’s both functional and photogenic, which is a rare combo.

Frequently asked questions about AquaRio Marinho do Rio

How long should I spend at AquaRio?

Anytime between 1 hour for highlights and 5–6 hours if you want the full experience.

Is AquaRio accessible to people with disabilities?

Absolutely. The aquarium is wheelchair-friendly, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Is there a cloakroom or lockers?

Yes, you can store large bags and backpacks in the locker area for convenience.

Can I touch the marine animals?

Only in designated touch pools and under supervision. No free-roaming petting, unfortunately.

Are there nearby attractions to combine with AquaRio?

Yes! You can combine your visit with tours of the Museum of Tomorrow, Rio’s port area, or Christ the Redeemer.

More reads

Couple using tablet to plan vacation with map on table.

Plan your visit

Family in car driving to travel destination, smiling and pointing ahead.

Directions

Couple observing fish at an aquarium exhibit.

Timings