The aquarium is situated on a man-made island specifically constructed to facilitate the enclosure of marine species in direct contact with natural coral reef currents.
It maintains a specialized program for the rehabilitation of sea turtles found injured or trapped in fishing nets along the Colombian coast.
The site hosts a unique collection of reef-dwelling sharks that are kept in a circular, tide-fed lagoon to mimic their natural hunting environment.
All water circulating through the enclosures is supplied directly from the surrounding Caribbean Sea, ensuring constant oxygenation and nutrient flow.
The facility serves as a critical research hub for the study of local coral species growth and disease mitigation.
The Oceanarium Rosario Islands is an open-sea aquarium located on Isla de Pajarales within the Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo National Natural Park. The facility utilizes natural seawater enclosures to house a variety of Caribbean marine life, including dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and rays. It functions as both an educational center and a conservation site for endangered species native to the Colombian Caribbean. The aquarium features daily live educational demonstrations highlighting dolphin and sea lion behavior. The facility is accessible primarily by boat from Cartagena. Visitors can observe marine ecosystems in a semi-wild environment without traditional glass tanks for most species. The site is managed by a private organization dedicated to marine biology research and rehabilitation in the region.
The raised wooden walkway overlooking the main shark and ray lagoon provides a panoramic view of both the marine life and the surrounding Caribbean Sea.
Bring high-SPF sunscreen and a hat, as there is limited shade while walking between the various open-air marine enclosures.
Wear water shoes or sturdy sandals, as the paths are often exposed to sea spray and can be slippery.
Check the boat operator's schedule beforehand, as boat departure times from the aquarium are strictly linked to tide and weather conditions.
Avoid booking "all-inclusive" packages from street vendors that do not explicitly confirm entry to the Oceanarium, as some boat tours only circle the island without docking.
Closed on certain Mondays for maintenance, depending on the week of the year; always confirm with boat tour operators before departure.
Do not touch the water or attempt to feed animals outside of regulated, staff-led interactions; keep noise levels low near the tanks.
