A visit to the Municipal Aquarium (Aquário Municipal de Campinas) presents an insight into marine ecosystems. Inaugurated in 1992 by Brazilian biologist Flávio Jorge Abrão, the Municipal Aquarium lays claim to being one of the only national aquarium’s to offer an educational tour of marine life evolution. It forms part of a museum complex that also houses the Museum of Natural History.
Peer into the 49 tanks, which are home to a collection of over 200 species of aquatic animals commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean and Brazilian rivers. See dogfish, lionfish, seahorses, starfish and turtles, among other varieties. There are also examples of different anemones, corals and sea snakes. Take a moment to watch as the contrasting animals swim harmoniously, interact with each other and feed off the coral.
To better teach visitors about Brazil’s biodiversity, the aquarium puts on several educational programs. These come in the form of activities for school groups, ecology seminars during school vacations and workshops for teachers. Among the most important topics is the significance of the immense Guarani Aquifer reservoir to the environment. This aquifer is the second-largest known in the world.
You’ll find the aquarium situated in Jequitibá Woods Park, which is 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) southeast of the city center. Public buses travel to the park from close to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Campinas. Otherwise take a taxi or walk for about 25 minutes. Plan a day out at the park to visit its other attractions. Discover interesting facts about Brazilian fauna and flora at the Museum of Natural History. Spot animals in enclosures at the Municipal Zoo Campinas and walk along the park’s woodland pathways.
The Municipal Aquarium is open from Wednesday to Sunday and on public holidays. One fee includes admission to the aquarium and the Museum of Natural History. Admission is free for children aged 6 or under and adults aged 60 and above.
