Marine life is one of the most spectacular wonders nature offers us. Unfortunately, observing it directly can be complicated, especially when it involves aquatic species living in other regions of the country or even the world.
That is why aquariums in Mexico have become an excellent option for getting closer to this universe in a safe and highly visual way. Here, you can see everything from sharks and jellyfish to exotic, multicolored fish that you would normally only see in documentaries. And if you’re looking for something more personal, there are also spaces where you can enjoy a unique experience with dolphins, allowing you to get to know them up close.
Below, we share some of the most prominent aquariums in the country so you can choose which one to visit on your next trip.
You have likely heard of the Inbursa Aquarium. Opened in 2014, it is one of the largest in Mexico, spanning 3,500 square meters with 48 exhibition rooms and more than 14,000 specimens from 300 different aquatic species. Additionally, did you know it is the only underground aquarium in Latin America?
Sharks are one of the main attractions of this venue, as here you can admire varieties such as the blacktip, leopard, sandbar, and nurse shark. Other marine creatures that call this place home are: jellyfish, living corals, piranhas, turtles, starfish, and stingrays. And what can we say about its penguin area! All these species live in spaces that simulate their natural habitat.
It features augmented reality tours through mobile applications to enhance the experience of observing the different species along the way. Thus, you can view 3D images and explanatory fact sheets on your smartphone or tablet.
The Great Mayan Reef, located in the Mexican Caribbean, is the second largest in the world and houses an impressive biodiversity, difficult to appreciate gathered in a single place. That same richness is what you can discover at the Interactive Aquarium Cancun, one of the must-see family attractions of the destination, located in La Isla Shopping Village, right in the Hotel Zone.
Here you can get to know a great diversity of marine life, from invertebrates (sea urchins and starfish) to reptiles (turtles) and marine mammals (such as the dolphin and the sea lion). In total, it houses more than 1,195 specimens of more than 140 species, which guarantees an experience as varied as it is surprising.
As if that weren't enough, with the Aquarium Trek experience you can enjoy an incredible underwater walk that will bring you close to a wide variety of fish, such as tarpon, orange-tailed triggerfish, yellowtail snapper, surgeonfish (pepper, African, and ring-tailed), Moorish idol, dog-faced puffer, foxface, as well as eagle rays and palometa.
The Interactive Aquarium Cancun is one of the few spaces in Mexico where you can enjoy close encounters with marine life: from touching rays and echinoderms to receiving a kiss from a sea lion. It also offers dolphin interaction programs, where you can spend time with them, observe how they communicate, and learn about their behavior, making it an ideal experience to enjoy as a couple, family, or with friends.
If you prefer a more aquatic experience, you can also opt for the Delphinus habitats in the Riviera Maya. There you will have the opportunity to interact with dolphins and complement your visit with activities such as meeting manatees or snorkeling among tropical fish.
Veracruz Aquarium is one of the most famous centers for marine life in the country and it has the biggest tanks in Latin America. It opened in 1991, its main purpose is to show the typical species of the area and it quickly became one of the most interesting sights in the city.
With more than 3,500 specimens of about 250 species, here you can find all kinds of marine fauna such as the blind cave fish, the tropical gar, and jellyfish. Although it has a dolphin area, the swimming option is not offered here. You will also find spaces to meet manatees and penguins, and even a shark tank.
In addition to its aquatic exhibits, the aquarium has an area that recreates a jungle ecosystem. Here you can admire several types of tropical birds flying freely—such as the toucan and the blue macaw—as well as giant reptiles like the Boa constrictor.
With an area of more than 2,800 square meters, this is the second venue on the list that is not located on the coast. Thus, despite not being a beach destination, the "Perla Tapatía" has one of the most complete aquariums in Mexico, located inside the Guadalajara Zoo.
It has 15 panoramic tanks: 7 freshwater, 6 saltwater, and 2 brackish water—like in the mangroves. Nearly 100 different aquatic species from all over the world live in them, including fish, jellyfish, piranhas, rays, and sharks.
One of its most attractive features is its 8-meter transparent tunnel in which you can walk and appreciate all the aquatic creatures swimming "over your head," just as they would in their natural environment.
Inaugurated in 1980, the aquarium has 52 tanks and a wealth of recreational exhibits, but also for educational purposes. For example, did you know that it is the only one of the aquariums in Mexico that has a sea turtle conservation program?
In this facility, you can see rays, jellyfish, groupers, snappers, and the lemon tiger shark. In addition, you can see sharks up close and sea lion presentations.
The "Oceanic Fish Tank" is perhaps the greatest point of interest of this aquarium, one of the largest in all of Latin America. In it, you can appreciate species from the Gulf of California, considered the aquarium of the world.
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience
Marine life is a spectacle full of color, movement, and unique moments that are worth experiencing. On your next trip to Quintana Roo, give yourself the opportunity to be part of this experience and discover everything the sea has to offer.