Following the Christmas tradition since its inauguration, until December 25th AquaRio goers get a separate show. In addition to sharks and more than two thousand other animals, including other species of fish, Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and the elves dive in the large ocean tank. The dives always take place at 2pm, shark feeding time, with the exception of December 24th, which will take place at 1pm.
According to Rafael Franco, AquaRio's technical manager, this intimacy between the good old man and his family and the fish has an explanation. Both Santa Claus and his family who dive into the large tank are the keepers themselves who are part of the technical biology team and who have been taking care of the animals normally for six years. But at that time, they come dressed in costume. In total, there are 11 keepers who take turns diving in character.
For those who want to see the good old man's aquatic adventures up close, you will have a 15% discount when purchasing tickets. Residents of the state of Rio will pay R$ 59.90, from Monday to Friday, at the promotional rate for the month of December. The purchase must be made exclusively through the website www.aquariomarinhodorio.com.br. AquaRio will also have a diving Santa Claus outside the tanks. It will be in the lobby for anyone who wants to take photos. The action is a separate paid activity.
In celebration of the attraction's five years, there will be signage showing a retrospective of 2021. In addition to special decoration on site, there are educational activities for children that combine fun and awareness, such as storytelling and puppet shows, among others.
Check out AquaRio's special opening hours for Christmas and New Year below:
- 12/24 — From 9am to 2pm (with entry to the visiting circuit until 1pm);
- 12/25 — From 12pm to 6pm (with entry to the visiting circuit until 5pm);
- 12/26 to 30 — From 9am to 6pm (with entry to the visiting circuit until 5pm);
- 12/31 — From 9am to 2pm (with entry to the visiting circuit until 1pm);
- January 1st — Open from 12pm to 6pm (with entry to the visiting circuit until 5pm).
AquaRio is very close to us, in Praça Muhammad Ali, Gamboa (in front of Warehouses 7 and 8 of the Port of Rio).