National Aquarium of Cuba - Image 1
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National Aquarium of Cuba

3.6
·368 reviews·Havana, Cuba

Discover vibrant marine life and thrilling dolphin shows at Cuba's National Aquarium, offering incredible value and a unique local experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Midday

Catch the dolphin show!

CrowdMedium
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National Aquarium of Cuba - Image 1

National Aquarium of Cuba

Best Time

Midday

Catch the dolphin show!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover vibrant marine life and thrilling dolphin shows at Cuba's National Aquarium, offering incredible value and a unique local experience.

3.6
(368 reviews)

"For this price, this is really 5-star. Amazing! Totally recommend, especially the dolphin's show."

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TIP

💰 Incredible Value

Entrance is incredibly cheap, making it a fantastic budget-friendly activity. :moneybag:

🐬 Dolphin Show Fun

Don't miss the energetic dolphin show; it's a highlight for many visitors. :performing_arts:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dolphin Show Spectacle

Dolphin Show Spectacle

Energetic performances with music and a lively host make this a must-see for all ages.

Reddit
Rare Marine Species

Rare Marine Species

Discover unique and eye-catching aquatic creatures you might not find elsewhere.

Reddit
Dolphin Encounters

Dolphin Encounters

Optional paid experiences allow for closer interaction, including touching and kissing dolphins.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Budget-Friendly Fun

For an incredibly low entrance fee (around 80 CUP), the National Aquarium of Cuba offers a surprisingly engaging experience. Consider the optional dolphin encounters for a memorable splurge, but the basic admission is a steal for the marine life you'll see. Reddit

Check Show Schedules

While dolphin shows are a highlight, their availability can vary. Confirm showtimes upon arrival to ensure you don't miss the energetic performances that add so much to the visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Midday
Why
Catch the dolphin show!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

💰 Incredible Value

Entrance is incredibly cheap, making it a fantastic budget-friendly activity. Reddit :moneybag:

🐬 Dolphin Show Fun

Don't miss the energetic dolphin show; it's a highlight for many visitors. Reddit :performing_arts:

🐢 Turtle Viewing

See a variety of turtles, though some exhibits might be less engaging. Reddit :turtle:

🤝 Support Local Efforts

Understand the context of limited resources and support their efforts. Reddit :raised_hands:

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Incredible Value

Entrance is incredibly cheap, making it a fantastic budget-friendly activity. Reddit :moneybag:

🐬 Dolphin Show Fun

Don't miss the energetic dolphin show; it's a highlight for many visitors. Reddit :performing_arts:

🐢 Turtle Viewing

See a variety of turtles, though some exhibits might be less engaging. Reddit :turtle:

🤝 Support Local Efforts

Understand the context of limited resources and support their efforts. Reddit :raised_hands:

💲 Dolphin Experience Cost

Paid experiences like touching dolphins can add to the cost. Reddit :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

3.6
(368 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the National Aquarium of Cuba for its incredible value, with an exceptionally low entrance fee. The energetic dolphin shows are a major highlight, offering fun for all ages. While some exhibits may be basic and the facility operates with limited resources, the overall experience is considered highly enjoyable and a great way to support local efforts. Reddit+1

"OMG 10 pesos (about 5 cents) to see dolphin shows. How come the review is not 5-star? I agree this place needs a lot more attention and contraction, but for this price, this is really 5-star. We visited the place at 11 and the dolphin show was at 12. So, we had time to visit aquariums and turtles. Turtles were a bunch of 6-7 that was not that exciting. However, between aquariums, there were many rare and interesting species. At least 20 kinds of them were amazingly eye-catching for me such that I haven’t seen a film or picture of them and I realized they are living species after seeing their movements. There were 2 alligators that have been kept in dirty and small aquariums which I didn’t like the way that they are kept. There was I believe one sea lion and 8 dolphins. We attend the dolphin show which was amazing and fun with good music and energetic reporter. I paid 100 pesos to touch dolphins and 1000 pesos to wear their clothes and kiss dolphins."

Morteza Babaee

"Amazing! Totally recommend, especially the dolphin's show. It's very cheap (only 80 CUP the entrance) and the experience is full of joy. I will definitely go back again soon"

Lily Polanco

"The place is not as beautiful as the aquariums in other countries, the sea lions and dolphins show is canceled by now but... Guys, we are in Cuba, the social and economic situation is not the best for anybody right now so people try to work and keep their business running despite of the little resources they have.
Also, ou just pay some cents to get in the aquarium, it's worthy as you can see a family of sea lions, some turtles and the dolphins (just for 10 minutes, not a show). So, come on guys! Let's be nice and give some support to this island, to its people, they deserve it!"

Lucero Lasso

What People Like

Incredible value for money
Energetic dolphin shows
Diverse marine life

What People Dislike

Basic exhibit conditions
Limited resources impact

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Aquarium of Cuba is located in Havana. Taxis are a common and convenient way to reach the aquarium from most parts of the city. Public transportation options might be available, but taxis offer more direct access and comfort. Reddit

Information on dedicated parking facilities can be limited. If arriving by private vehicle, inquire locally about available parking options near the entrance. Reddit

From Old Havana, a taxi is generally the most straightforward option. The journey is relatively short, and taxis are readily available throughout the city. Reddit

While specific bus routes can change, it's advisable to ask locals or your accommodation for the most current public transport information to reach the aquarium. Reddit

Accessibility information can vary. It's recommended to contact the aquarium directly or check recent visitor feedback for details on ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is remarkably low, often cited as around 80 CUP (Cuban Pesos), which translates to a very small amount in foreign currency. This makes it an exceptionally budget-friendly attraction. Reddit

Typically, the entrance fee covers access to the aquarium and its exhibits. The dolphin show is often included, but it's wise to confirm showtimes and any potential separate ticketing upon arrival. Reddit

Advance ticket purchase options may be limited. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the aquarium's ticket counter. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but visitors often report arriving around 11 AM to catch the 12 PM dolphin show. It's best to check for the most current operating hours before your visit. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely available. However, given the already low entrance fee, it's a very affordable experience for all ages. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of marine life, including numerous fish species, turtles, a sea lion, and dolphins. Some visitors highlight the presence of rare and interesting species beyond the main attractions. Reddit

Dolphin shows are a major draw, but their schedule can be subject to change. It's advisable to confirm showtimes upon arrival to avoid disappointment. Reddit

For an additional fee, visitors can participate in dolphin experiences, which may include touching or even kissing the dolphins. These are often described as amazing but come at a higher cost. Reddit

Some reviews mention the presence of alligators, though their enclosures were noted as being small and not ideal. Reddit

Yes, the aquarium is generally considered enjoyable for children, especially with the dolphin shows and the opportunity to see various marine creatures. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Information on extensive dining facilities is limited. It's advisable to check on-site availability or plan to dine before or after your visit. Reddit

Policies on outside food and beverages can vary. It's best to inquire at the entrance or check for posted rules regarding outside refreshments. Reddit

While not a focus of reviews, basic snack options might be available. Visitors often prioritize the marine life and shows over dining facilities. Reddit

The aquarium is located in Havana, so there are likely various dining options in the surrounding areas. Exploring local eateries after your visit is recommended. Reddit

Given the potential for limited on-site dining, eating a meal before your visit is a practical suggestion to ensure you have a pleasant experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if flash photography is allowed, especially near sensitive exhibits. Reddit

The dolphin shows offer dynamic photo opportunities. The diverse marine life exhibits also provide unique chances for captivating underwater shots. Reddit

Video recording during the dolphin show is usually allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing their view. Reddit

While professional camera equipment might have restrictions, standard personal cameras and smartphones are typically fine for capturing memories. Reddit

Exhibit lighting can vary, with some areas being dimmer to simulate underwater environments. Be prepared for potentially lower light conditions in certain sections. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Aquarium of Cuba is a fantastic option for families looking for affordable entertainment. The dolphin shows are a guaranteed hit with children, offering an exciting and visually stimulating experience. Reddit Beyond the shows, the variety of marine life, including fish and turtles, provides educational opportunities for young minds. While some exhibits might be basic, the overall engagement factor, especially the interactive dolphin experiences (for an extra fee), makes it a memorable outing. Remember to check showtimes upon arrival to maximize your visit and keep the kids entertained. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the National Aquarium of Cuba is an absolute gem. The entrance fee is exceptionally low, making it one of the most affordable attractions in Havana. Reddit You can enjoy a significant amount of marine life and the captivating dolphin show without breaking the bank. While optional dolphin interaction experiences have an additional cost, the base admission provides excellent value. This is a perfect activity for those looking to experience local culture and attractions without overspending. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dolphin Experience: A Highlight

The dolphin shows are consistently praised as a major highlight of the National Aquarium of Cuba. Visitors describe them as energetic, fun, and engaging, often featuring good music and a lively host. Reddit These performances are a significant draw for families and individuals alike, offering a memorable spectacle. Beyond the shows, there are also optional dolphin interaction experiences. These paid encounters allow visitors to get closer to the dolphins, with options to touch them and even participate in a 'kiss a dolphin' activity. While these experiences come at an additional cost, they are described as amazing by those who partake. Reddit

It's important to note that the availability and duration of these interactions can vary. Some reviews mention specific times for these encounters, and it's always best to confirm details upon arrival. The overall sentiment is that the dolphin-related activities provide exceptional value, especially considering the low entrance fee. Reddit

Marine Life Beyond the Dolphins

While the dolphins often steal the spotlight, the National Aquarium of Cuba also showcases a variety of other marine life. Visitors can expect to see numerous fish species, with some reviewers highlighting the presence of rare and interesting creatures that they haven't encountered elsewhere. Reddit These exhibits offer a glimpse into the diversity of aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, the aquarium houses turtles, though some visitors note that these exhibits might be less captivating compared to other attractions. Reddit

There are also mentions of alligators being kept at the facility. However, some feedback points out that their enclosures were small and not in the best condition, which is a common concern in facilities with limited resources. Reddit Despite these observations, the aquarium provides an opportunity to see a range of aquatic animals, contributing to its educational and entertainment value, especially for those interested in marine biodiversity. The sheer variety of species, even beyond the main attractions, is often a pleasant surprise for visitors. Reddit

Understanding the Cuban Context

Several reviews emphasize the importance of viewing the National Aquarium of Cuba within its local context. Visitors acknowledge that Cuba faces social and economic challenges, which can impact the resources available for maintaining attractions. Reddit This perspective encourages a more understanding and supportive approach from tourists. Instead of comparing it unfavorably to aquariums in other countries, reviewers suggest appreciating the efforts made by the staff to keep the facility running despite these limitations. Reddit

The incredibly low entrance fee is frequently cited as a testament to the value offered, especially when considering the economic situation. Reddit+1 Visitors are encouraged to be 'nice' and 'give some support to this island, to its people,' recognizing that their patronage contributes to the local economy and community. This understanding fosters a more positive and appreciative visitor experience, highlighting the resilience and dedication of the people working at the aquarium. Reddit

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