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Visiting Guide for Oceanário de Aracaju in Aracaju, Brazil

Date: 24/07/2024

Introduction

Discover the wonders of the Oceanário de Aracaju, a beacon of marine conservation and environmental education in the northeastern region of Brazil. Inaugurated in June 2002, the Oceanário de Aracaju, also known as the Centro de Visitantes do Tamar, holds the distinction of being the first oceanarium in this region and the fifth in the country. Managed by the Fundação Pró-Tamar in coordination with the Projeto Tamar in Sergipe, this establishment plays a pivotal role in the protection and awareness of marine life, particularly sea turtles (Wikipedia).

The Oceanário’s unique architectural design, shaped like a giant turtle, symbolizes its commitment to marine life conservation. Spread across 141,000 square meters, the facility not only offers a visually striking experience but also immerses visitors into the rich marine biodiversity of the São Francisco River and the Brazilian coast. With around 70 different species housed in 18 aquariums, the Oceanário serves as an educational hub, attracting approximately 120,000 visitors annually (Wikipedia).

Beyond its educational exhibits, the Oceanário de Aracaju is deeply involved in conservation efforts, particularly through the renowned Projeto Tamar. This initiative focuses on the protection of sea turtles, conducting activities such as the release of baby turtles into the ocean, which visitors can witness firsthand. These efforts not only contribute to the preservation of marine life but also raise public awareness about the threats these creatures face (Triplyzer).

[History and Significance](#history-and-significancehistory-and-significance)
- [Establishment and Development](#establishment-and-developmentestablishment-and-development)
- [Architectural Design](#architectural-designarchitectural-design)
- [Role in Environmental Education](#role-in-environmental-educationrole-in-environmental-education)
- [Visitor Engagement and Activities](#visitor-engagement-and-activitiesvisitor-engagement-and-activities)
- [Exhibits and Species](#exhibits-and-speciesexhibits-and-species)
- [Conservation Efforts](#conservation-effortsconservation-efforts)
- [Cultural and Economic Impact](#cultural-and-economic-impactcultural-and-economic-impact)
- [Accessibility and Location](#accessibility-and-locationaccessibility-and-location)
- [Future Prospects](#future-prospectsfuture-prospects)
[Ticket Prices and Opening Hours](#ticket-prices-and-opening-hoursticket-prices-and-opening-hours)
[Nearby Attractions](#nearby-attractionsnearby-attractions)
[Travel Tips](#travel-tipstravel-tips)
[FAQ](#faqfaq)
[Conclusion](#conclusionconclusion)
[References](#referencesreferences)

History and Significance of Oceanário de Aracaju

Establishment and Development

The Oceanário de Aracaju was inaugurated in June 2002 as the first oceanarium in the northeastern region of Brazil and the fifth in the country. Managed by the Fundação Pró-Tamar under the coordination of the Projeto Tamar in Sergipe, this oceanarium plays a significant role in promoting environmental education and marine conservation. The facility occupies a 141,000 square meter area, ceded by the Federal Government through a contract between the Serviço de Patrimônio da União and the Fundação Pró-Tamar (Wikipedia).

Architectural Design

The Oceanário de Aracaju features a unique architectural design shaped like a giant turtle, symbolizing its commitment to marine life conservation, especially sea turtles. The structure covers an area of 1,700 square meters and is built using eucalipto and piaçava, materials that reflect the local culture and environment (Wikipedia).

Role in Environmental Education

The Oceanário de Aracaju serves as a crucial tool for environmental education and awareness. It offers guided tours, lectures, and exhibitions designed to sensitize the local population and visitors about the importance of preserving marine ecosystems and the biodiversity of the São Francisco River (Wikipedia).

Visitor Engagement and Activities

The Oceanário de Aracaju attracts approximately 120,000 visitors annually. The facility can accommodate up to 300 people at a time, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience for all. One of the highlights of a visit is the opportunity to observe the feeding of marine animals, which takes place daily at 10:30 AM and 4:30 PM (Wikipedia).

Exhibits and Species

The Oceanário de Aracaju houses around 70 different species native to the state of Sergipe, displayed in 18 aquariums, including five freshwater and 13 saltwater tanks. The largest aquarium, located at the entrance, contains 150,000 liters of water and features approximately 30 species, including rays, sharks, moray eels, jacks, groupers, and snappers. Additionally, the oceanarium includes a replica of the submerged part of an oil platform (Wikipedia).

Conservation Efforts

The Oceanário de Aracaju is deeply involved in conservation efforts through the Projeto Tamar, focusing on the protection and preservation of sea turtles. Activities include the release of baby turtles into the ocean, which visitors can witness, contributing to conservation and raising awareness about the threats these creatures face (Triplyzer).

Cultural and Economic Impact

The Oceanário de Aracaju is a significant cultural and economic asset for Aracaju and the state of Sergipe. It draws visitors from across Brazil and beyond, contributing to the local economy by supporting businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. The oceanarium’s educational programs and conservation efforts enhance the cultural fabric of the community by promoting environmental stewardship (Lonely Planet).

Accessibility and Location

The Oceanário de Aracaju is conveniently located on the Orla de Atalaia, one of the most popular waterfront areas in Aracaju. It is situated just 500 meters from the sea, making it easily accessible. The address is Avenida Santos Dumont, 1010, Atalaia (Wikipedia).

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the Oceanário de Aracaju aims to expand its educational and conservation programs to reach a broader audience. Plans include new exhibits and interactive activities to further engage visitors and enhance their understanding of marine ecosystems. The oceanarium is also exploring partnerships with other conservation organizations to strengthen efforts in protecting marine life (Triplyzer).

Ticket Prices and Opening Hours

The Oceanário de Aracaju is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets are priced at BRL 20 for adults and BRL 10 for children, students, and seniors. Special discounts are available for group visits and school excursions.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the Oceanário de Aracaju, you can explore other local attractions such as Atalaia Beach, the Aracaju Aquarium, and the beautiful gardens of the Orla de Atalaia. These sites offer a wonderful complement to your visit, providing a full day of engaging activities and scenic views.

Travel Tips

The best way to reach the Oceanário de Aracaju is by car or taxi. There is ample parking available on-site.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as there is a lot to explore inside the oceanarium.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the unique marine life and the striking architecture of the building.

FAQ

Q: What are the Oceanário de Aracaju visiting hours?

A: The Oceanário de Aracaju is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Q: How much are the tickets for the Oceanário de Aracaju?

A: Tickets are priced at BRL 20 for adults and BRL 10 for children, students, and seniors.

Q: What is the best way to get to the Oceanário de Aracaju?

A: The best way to reach the Oceanário de Aracaju is by car or taxi, with ample parking available on-site.

Q: What can I expect during my visit to the Oceanário de Aracaju?

A: You can expect to see around 70 different species of marine life, participate in guided tours, and observe the feeding of marine animals at 10:30 AM and 4:30 PM daily.

Conclusion

In summary, the Oceanário de Aracaju stands as a testament to the importance of marine conservation and environmental education. Its rich history, unique architectural design, and extensive exhibits make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and sustainability. The facility’s commitment to conservation through activities like the Projeto Tamar’s sea turtle releases highlights its role in protecting vulnerable species and ecosystems (Triplyzer).

Located conveniently on the Orla de Atalaia, the Oceanário offers visitors not just an educational experience but also the opportunity to explore the beautiful coastal environment of Aracaju. With its array of interactive displays, guided tours, and special events, the Oceanário de Aracaju continues to foster a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems and the need for their preservation (Wikipedia). Plan your visit today to support these vital conservation efforts and experience the wonders of marine biodiversity firsthand.