Imagine walking through a window into the underwater world—this is what the Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón offers. While we haven’t personally wandered its halls, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-curated aquatic experience that’s both educational and visually striking. If you’re curious about marine life, love taking pictures, or are traveling with kids, this aquarium might just be a highlight of your visit to Asturias.
Two things we particularly like about this experience are the variety of aquariums—more than 60 freshwater and saltwater tanks—and the chance to touch sea creatures in small pools. Both offer an intimate way to connect with the ocean’s inhabitants. A possible drawback? Since the ticket is non-refundable, you’ll want to double-check availability and opening times before planning your visit. This experience suits families, marine enthusiasts, or anyone interested in learning about ocean ecosystems in a friendly, manageable setting.
Key Points
- Diverse marine life: Over 2,000 cubic meters of water and more than 5,000 animals, including sharks, turtles, and freshwater species.
- Educational and conservation focus: Learn about the oceans and the importance of marine preservation.
- Interactive elements: Small pools allow visitors to touch starfish, fish, and sea cucumbers.
- Photographic opportunities: The colorful, dynamic tanks are perfect for capturing memories.
- Value for money: At $23, it’s a reasonably priced, full-day experience.
- Accessible to all: Wheelchair accessibility makes it inclusive for everyone.
An In-Depth Look at the Aquarium Experience
When you set foot inside the Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón, you’re stepping into a vibrant world of aquatic ecosystems. Spread across more than 60 tanks, the aquarium showcases species from both freshwater rivers and the deep seas, making it a rundown of aquatic biodiversity. It’s an ideal stop if you’re keen to understand the flora and fauna that inhabit the world’s oceans and rivers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gijon.
The Aquarium’s Layout and Exhibits
The aquarium’s design allows for a smooth flow through different habitats, giving visitors a sense of traveling from the rivers of Asturias to the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean. We loved the way the tanks are themed—each one offering a glimpse into a specific environment. For instance, the freshwater section features species like salmon, trout, eels, and sturgeons, representing the local and regional waterways. Notably, the aquarium contains almost three-meter-long bull sharks, which are a big hit among visitors, especially kids. These impressive predators coexist with nurse sharks and grey sharks, providing an up-close look at some of the ocean’s top predators.
The saltwater exhibits are equally fascinating, featuring marine species from around the world. Expect to see loggerhead turtles, fish from coral reefs, and vibrant species from the Caribbean and Indian Oceans. The tanks are carefully curated to recreate natural habitats, making for an educational experience that goes beyond just looking at pretty fish.
Interactive and Educational Elements
One of the standout features highlighted in reviews is the small pools for touching starfish, sea cucumbers, and small fish. This hands-on element adds a delightful touch—literally—for visitors, especially children, who can gain a tactile understanding of marine creatures. It’s a gentle reminder of the importance of ocean conservation and the need to protect these delicate ecosystems.
The aquarium also emphasizes education and dissemination of knowledge about marine conservation, which is appealing if you’re interested in learning while you explore. The knowledgeable staff and the well-maintained tanks make for a comfortable and informative visit.
Photo Opportunities and Atmosphere
For those of us who love to capture moments, the aquarium offers plenty of beautiful photo opportunities. The tanks are vibrant and dynamic, often with enough light and clarity to snap stunning images. Whether you’re a casual photographer or an Instagram enthusiast, the colorful fish and the dramatic shark displays will give you plenty to shoot.
More Great Tours NearbyVisitor Experience and Accessibility
The reviews underscore a generally positive visitor experience, with Clare noting “Great exhibition with lots of different habitats explored and creatures from the deep as well as on land.” Angel Toledo adds, “Excelente experiencia a mis hijos le encanto,” highlighting the family-friendly nature of the site.
The facility is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for all visitors to enjoy the exhibits without worry.
Price and Duration
At $23 per person, the ticket offers good value for a full day of exploration. The visit is valid for one day—be sure to check availability and starting times to plan your trip accordingly. Since the activity is non-refundable, verifying entry times and availability in advance helps avoid disappointment.
Who Should Visit?
This aquarium appeals most to families, marine life enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to see a wide variety of aquatic species in one location. Its manageable size and engaging exhibits make it suitable for children, while the educational focus caters to adults as well.
Final Thoughts
The Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón offers a well-rounded, engaging look at oceanic and freshwater life in a setting that’s both educational and visually appealing. Its variety of tanks and the opportunity to touch certain creatures make it a memorable visit, especially for families and those with a keen interest in marine biology.
While it may not be as sprawling as some larger aquariums worldwide, it compensates with its focus on regional species and conservation messages. The reasonable price and accessibility enhance its appeal, making it a valuable addition to a trip to Asturias.
For travelers seeking an authentic, accessible, and informative marine experience, this aquarium hits the right notes. It’s particularly ideal for those traveling with children or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the ocean’s inhabitants without overextending their schedule.
FAQs
Is the ticket price of $23 per person worth it?
Yes, considering the extensive collection of over 5,000 animals in more than 60 tanks, the price is reasonable for a full-day, educational experience.
Can I visit the aquarium with a wheelchair?
Absolutely. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.
How long should I plan to spend at the aquarium?
Most visitors find a couple of hours sufficient to see everything, but with so many tanks and interactive elements, you might want to allocate a full morning or afternoon.
Are there opportunities for photos?
Yes, the vibrant tanks and diverse marine life provide excellent photo opportunities, perfect for capturing memories or sharing on social media.
What kind of marine animals can I expect to see?
Expect to see freshwater species like salmon and trout, as well as saltwater creatures including sharks, sea turtles, and colorful reef fish.
Is the experience suitable for children?
Definitely. The interactive pools and engaging exhibits make it especially popular with kids, as one reviewer noted their children loved it.
Do I need to book my tickets in advance?
While the review indicates the ticket is valid for one day and check availability for starting times, it’s wise to book ahead to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
To sum it up, if you’re in Asturias and have an interest in marine life, the Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón offers a balanced mix of education, entertainment, and stunning visuals—all at a fair price point. It’s a genuine, family-friendly destination that adds a splash of color and curiosity to your journey.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Aquariums in Gijon
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