Saigon Aquarium: Explore a “Mini Ocean” in the Heart of the City
Saigon Aquarium is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the wonders of the ocean without leaving the bustling city. With hundreds of unique marine species and modern underwater tunnels, this is not only a fun outing but also an educational journey for families who want to learn more about the beauty and mystery of marine ecosystems.
1. Saigon Aquarium at Dam Sen Park
- Address: 3 Hoa Binh Street, Ward 3, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Ticket price: 25,000 – 40,000 VND
Located inside Dam Sen Cultural Park, the Dam Sen Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Southern Vietnam. Covering around 3,000 square meters with a 2,500 m³ water tank, the aquarium houses over 6,000 aquatic creatures, including:
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40+ plant species
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150+ rare marine animals such as white-tip reef sharks, stingrays, giant groupers, giant barbs
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Endangered species like red-lipped batfish, Phu Quoc batfish, and sea dragons
Designed with 7 themed zones, the aquarium offers a vibrant journey into the colorful world beneath the ocean. From the outside, it resembles a giant crab, creating a striking and iconic visual landmark.
Tips for Visiting Dam Sen Aquarium
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Operating hours:
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Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Sat–Sun & holidays: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
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Ticket price:
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Dam Sen Dry Park entrance: 160,000 VND
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Aquarium ticket: 40,000 VND
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Transportation: Easily accessible by bus, taxi, or motorbike.
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Bring a camera: The aquarium offers plenty of amazing photo opportunities.
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Follow the rules: Do not touch tanks or feed the animals.
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Best visiting time: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
2. Saigon Aquarium at Suoi Tien Theme Park
- Address: 120 Hanoi Highway, Tan Phu Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket price: 10,000 – 25,000 VND
The Suoi Tien Aquarium, located inside Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park, brings visitors into an enchanting underwater world housed inside a dragon-shaped structure. With a water capacity of 100,000 liters and 100+ marine species, it offers a captivating ocean experience for all ages.
Visitors can observe rare species such as queen angelfish, spotted boxfish, sharks, sea turtles, and the majestic arapaima — one of the world’s largest freshwater fish. Tanks are built with 32mm-thick glass, ensuring both safety and a realistic viewing experience.
3. Fun Activities to Try at Saigon Aquariums
Both Dam Sen and Suoi Tien aquariums offer exciting activities, perfect for families, kids, and ocean lovers
Explore Diverse Marine Life
You’ll encounter a wide range of sea creatures, including:
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Arapaima
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Sharks
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Lionfish
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Spotted boxfish
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Sea turtles
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Iguanas and aquatic reptiles
Each section provides a close-up look at marine biodiversity and the amazing behaviors of various species.
4. Walk Through the Underwater Tunnel
The highlight of both aquariums is the modern underwater tunnel, where visitors can enjoy a 360° view of marine life swimming overhead and around them. This creates the feeling of walking right through the ocean — a must-try experience and a popular photo spot.
5. Educational Experience
Information boards and guided programs help visitors, especially children, learn more about marine ecosystems, conservation, and the importance of protecting the ocean. It’s an engaging and meaningful activity for families.
ACCOMMODATION SUGGESTIONS
If you intend to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, you should choose accommodations near the center and with good services, for example:
+ Acnos Hotel Ben Thanh: 20 Nguyen Thi Nghia, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.
+ Acnos Grand Hotel: 82 Cach Mang Thang Tam, Xuan Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.