Lisbon: Oceanário de Lisboa Guided Tour & Behind the Scenes

Exploring Lisbon’s Oceanário de Lisboa on a guided tour offers more than just a peek at marine life. It’s a chance to understand how this world-class facility balances animal care, scientific research, and conservation efforts. We’re here to highlight what makes this experience special, and what travelers can expect from this fascinating journey through one of Portugal’s top attractions.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see over 8,000 creatures from 500 species in immersive exhibits, the opportunity for behind-the-scenes access, and the chance to enjoy exclusive views of key habitats. Plus, the passionate, knowledgeable guides make all the difference. A potential downside? The “behind-the-scenes” portion isn’t accessible to children under 13 or those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly. This tour suits families, marine enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to learn about marine ecosystems from experts.

Good To Know

• Immersive marine exhibits showcasing global ocean habitats.
• Behind-the-scenes access to saltwater systems, breeding areas, and the saltwater factory.
• Expert guides providing engaging insights into marine conservation.
• Exclusive views of the central aquarium and privileged habitat access.
• Educational and fun for all ages, especially those interested in marine life and conservation.
• Value for money at $40 per person, offering both guided insight and behind-the-scenes access.

If you’re visiting Lisbon and want to get a deeper understanding of marine environments, this guided tour of the Oceanário is a fantastic pick. It’s not your average aquarium visit — the tour is designed to show you both the magnificent exhibits and the intricate workings of this renowned facility.

What really makes this experience shine are the knowledgeable guides, who are often biologists or experts passionate about marine life. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and they’re eager to share stories about the animals and the conservation projects the Oceanário supports. This isn’t just about marvelling at fish — it’s about understanding the delicate ecosystems that sustain ocean life worldwide.

You’ll appreciate the stunning views of different ocean habitats and the exclusive peek behind the curtain, which adds value for those interested in the science and logistics of marine animal care. The only consideration? The behind-the-scenes part isn’t suited for younger children or visitors with mobility challenges, so check this before booking if that applies.

This tour is perfect for families, marine lovers, educators, or anyone curious about ocean conservation. It offers a great mix of visual splendor and informative storytelling, making it suitable for all ages and interests.

The tour’s main attractions can be broken down into two parts: the guided exploration of the exhibits and the behind-the-scenes access. Both are designed to deepen your understanding of marine life and how the Oceanário operates.

Exhibit Exploration: You’ll start by wandering through the main exhibits, which showcase environments from the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic oceans. This interconnected setup allows you to see the differences and similarities across various marine ecosystems. The exhibits are designed to be immersive, giving you a real sense of being underwater.

Behind the Scenes: The real highlight is the exclusive access to areas typically off-limits to the public. You’ll get to see how seven million liters of saltwater are maintained, learn about feeding routines, and observe breeding areas for corals and other species. Witnessing the saltwater factory and learning about animal care routines helps visitors appreciate the complexity behind what appears to be a seamless display of marine life.

Expert Insights: Guides like Marcia and Bruno (who are praised for their passion and knowledge) will share stories and insights that transform a simple visit into an educational experience. For example, one reviewer mentioned how Bruno, a biologist, turned the tour into a live class, making everything more engaging.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting the Tour: Guided Exploration

Your adventure begins at the Ticket Office, where you meet your guide and embark on a 1.5 to 2-hour journey. Expect a friendly, personable guide who speaks either English or Portuguese, depending on your preference.

The guided exploration covers the main exhibits, where you’ll marvel at the various habitats. The Atlantic exhibit, for example, features species accustomed to colder waters, while the Pacific section boasts vibrant corals and tropical fish. The Antarctic habitat, with its chilly waters, showcases species like penguins and other cold-adapted creatures.

Throughout the walk, guides will share insights into each habitat, explaining how ecosystems are connected and how the Oceanário participates in global conservation initiatives. One reviewer shared that their guide, Marcia, was “so knowledgeable and passionate” that she made the entire experience memorable.

Behind-the-Scenes Access: The Secret World

Once the exhibit tour concludes, the behind-the-scenes portion begins. You’ll visit the saltwater factory, where you learn how the Oceanário maintains seven million liters of seawater. Watching the process of water filtration and treatment gives you a new appreciation for the complex logistics involved.

Next, you’ll explore areas dedicated to breeding and animal care, where staff tend to corals and other sensitive species. It’s fascinating to see how they mimic natural conditions to promote health and reproduction. Guests often find this part eye-opening and inspiring, as it reveals the meticulous work involved in marine animal conservation.

Privileged Views and Exclusive Areas

Part of the appeal is gaining access to sections that are off-limits during regular visits. This includes viewing areas of the central aquarium from unique angles, allowing you to appreciate the scale and beauty of the marine displays. These privileged views are especially appreciated by those keen to get great photos or simply to enjoy a different perspective.

Concluding the Experience

After the behind-the-scenes tour, you return to the main exhibition zone. You’re free to revisit your favorite tanks or reflect on what you’ve learned. The tour typically ends within the main exhibit area, so you can extend your visit or explore other parts of the Oceanário at your own pace.

For a cost of $40 per person, this tour offers a solid blend of visual splendor and scientific insight. Many reviewers noted the excellent value — especially given the access to behind-the-scenes areas and the depth of knowledge provided.

Considering that most visitors spend several hours exploring the Oceanário on their own, the guided tour enhances this experience by adding context and expert commentary. It’s particularly worthwhile for those who enjoy learning, or who want a more structured visit with a conservation-focused twist.

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Practical Details

• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours, making it perfect for a morning or afternoon activity.
• Language: Guides speak English and Portuguese.
• Availability: Check current schedules, but tours generally run with multiple start times.
• Accessibility: The main exhibit is accessible, but the behind-the-scenes areas are not suitable for visitors with reduced mobility.
• Meeting Point: At the Ticket Office at the entrance.
• Includes: Guided tour and behind-the-scenes access (if selected). Transportation isn’t included.

This experience is ideal for families with children over 13, marine life enthusiasts, conservation-minded travelers, and anyone who appreciates a mix of educational content and memorable visuals. It’s also excellent for those who want to maximize their time at the Oceanário by gaining insights that are not available on self-guided visits.

If you’re traveling with kids under 13 or have mobility restrictions, consider whether the behind-the-scenes portion is suitable beforehand, as it isn’t accessible to all.

The Lisbon Oceanário guided tour with behind-the-scenes access offers an engaging, educational adventure that adds depth to a standard aquarium visit. With expert guides, stunning habitat displays, and exclusive insights into marine conservation efforts, it’s a memorable experience for all ages.

At just $40, this tour provides excellent value, especially for visitors eager to understand the science behind the vibrant displays. The behind-the-scenes look at saltwater management and breeding areas makes it particularly appealing to those interested in the logistics and care involved in maintaining such a complex marine environment.

While the restricted access for young children or mobility concerns is worth considering, for most visitors, the tour strikes a wonderful balance between entertainment and education. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation of marine ecosystems while exploring Lisbon’s top aquariums.

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to make your own way to the Oceanário de Lisboa entrance.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and learn without feeling rushed.

Can children participate in the behind-the-scenes part?
No, the behind-the-scenes tour isn’t accessible to children under 13 or people with reduced mobility.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Portuguese, so you can choose your preferred language.

What should I expect during the behind-the-scenes tour?
You’ll see how saltwater is maintained for the exhibits, explore breeding areas, and witness the saltwater factory, gaining insight into daily operations.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s suitable for all ages, but keep in mind the behind-the-scenes portion isn’t for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I revisit the exhibits after the tour?
Yes, the tour ends within the main exhibit area, so you’re free to explore further after the guided portion.

What’s the best time to book the tour?
Check availability and start times beforehand; morning or early afternoon sessions are popular options.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $40 per person, offering good value considering the guided insights and behind-the-scenes access.

In summary, this tour is a well-rounded, insightful way to experience Lisbon’s Oceanário. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or a curious traveler, you’ll find plenty to love about the blend of exhibits and expert guidance.

You can check if your dates are available here: