Nature & natural history museums in Brazil

The Marine Aquarium of Rio de Janeiro, also known as AquaRio, is a public aquarium situated in the Gamboa neighborhood, within the port zone of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore marine life in a controlled environment. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine species, making it a fascinating destination for both adults and children.

The Ubatuba Aquarium houses a variety of organisms from both fresh and saltwater environments. The focus is on the taxonomy of species, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the different types of marine life and their classifications. This makes it an educational and engaging experience for all ages.

Pátio do Colégio, a historical Jesuit church and school, holds a significant place in the history of São Paulo, Brazil. It is the site where the city was founded back in 1554. The church and school have undergone various transformations over the centuries, reflecting the city's evolving history and culture.

The São Paulo Zoo, located south of the city of São Paulo, is the largest zoo in Brazil. It spans an impressive 82.45 hectares, a space that was originally part of the Atlantic Forest. This vast area allows the zoo to house a diverse range of animals in enclosures that replicate their natural habitats, providing visitors with an immersive and educational experience.

If you want to spend your day doing something extra exciting, consider visiting this large aquarium (in fact the largest one in Latin America) with more than 300 species of marine life and reptiles. Take your kids with you, this is a popular place for families with kids and the exhibitions are very

The São Paulo Cultural Centre, popularly known as Centro Cultural Vergueiro, is a public institution that falls under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Culture Secretariat of São Paulo city. This means that it is a government-run establishment, ensuring its commitment to the promotion and preservation of culture in the city.

The Museu Paranaense is housed in the São Francisco Palace, a sprawling space covering an area of 4,700 m². The museum not only showcases its historical collection in dedicated exhibition rooms but also hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into various historical and social contexts. Additionally, the museum is equipped with a library, an auditorium, a laboratory, and rooms for courses. It regularly conducts courses, lectures, workshops, and artistic presentations, offering a comprehensive cultural experience for visitors.

In 2019, the park underwent a significant transformation. It was closed to the public to allow for extensive renovations and the inauguration of a new project, the BioParque do Rio. This renovation aimed to enhance the visitor experience and provide a more immersive and educational environment for understanding and appreciating wildlife.

The Felícia Leirner Museum is situated in a vast area of approximately 35,000 square meters, nestled within a remnant of the Atlantic Forest in Campos do Jordão, São Paulo. This location provides a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences, offering visitors the opportunity to explore both the museum's exhibits and the surrounding natural beauty.

The Museu de Ecologia Fritz Müller is situated in the Vorstadt district of the city of Blumenau. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and ecological diversity of the region.

The Santos Municipal Aquarium is situated in the Ponta da Praia neighborhood of Santos, a city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the marine life of the region.

The Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi promotes science through various facilities. It houses a natural history museum, a botanical garden, and a zoological park. Additionally, the museum manages a scientific research station in the Amazon forest, known as the Estação Científica Ferreira Penna. These facilities offer a comprehensive insight into the biodiversity of the Amazon basin.

The Salvador Zoo and Botanical Park, also known as Getúlio Vargas Zoobotanical Park, is a significant attraction located in Salvador, the capital of the state of Bahia. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city and offers a unique opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna.

The PUCRS Museum of Science and Technology is situated in the city of Porto Alegre, specifically at Avenida Ipiranga 6681, Edificio 40, Partenón in the neighborhood. It is conveniently located near the PUCRS, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The Porto Alegre Botanical Garden, located on Salvador França street in Porto Alegre, Brazil, is a foundation of Rio Grande do Sul. This garden is a significant green space in the city, offering a variety of plant species for visitors to explore.

The Bosque Rodrigues Alves, officially known as Jardim Botânico da Amazônia, is a botanical garden situated in Belém, the capital city of the Brazilian state of Pará. This garden is a significant part of the city's history and offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flora of the Amazon.

The TAMAR Project is a Brazilian initiative that focuses on the preservation of endangered sea turtle species. This project was born out of a need to protect these marine creatures from extinction along the Brazilian coast. It's a collaborative effort between the government and non-governmental organizations, with support from national and international companies and institutions. The project also receives funding from the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, the federal government, Petrobras, and tourists who visit the project's facilities and purchase its merchandise.

The Bahia Geological Museum, also known as MGB, is situated on Avenida Sete de Setembro, in the Corredor da Vitória, in the city of Salvador, Bahia. This location is easily accessible and is a significant landmark in the city, making it a convenient destination for tourists.

The Museu João Fona, located in the city of Santarém in the state of Pará, is a historical building constructed between the years 1853 and 1868 by the engineer Marcos Pereira. This museum is the third oldest building in the city, adding to its historical significance.

The Natural Sciences Museum of the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais is a significant institution in Brazil that is dedicated to the preservation of the country's natural, historical, and cultural heritage. This is achieved through a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and research initiatives. The museum's collections include current Brazilian fauna of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, primarily species from the cerrado.

The park spans an impressive area of 1 million and 750 thousand square meters, with 600 thousand square meters dedicated to the preservation of cerrado, a type of savanna ecosystem. Since 1959, the park has been home to the city's zoo, making it a significant part of Belo Horizonte's natural heritage.

The Museum of Zoology of the University of São Paulo, abbreviated as MZUSP, is a public natural history museum. It is situated in the historic Ipiranga district of São Paulo, Brazil. The museum is an educational and research institution that is part of the University of São Paulo. It was established at the end of the 19th century as part of the Museu Paulista and moved into a dedicated building in 1941. In 1969, the museum became a part of the University of São Paulo and received its current name.

Parque do Sabiá is a municipal park and zoo situated in the East Zone of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais. The park spans an impressive 1.8 million square meters, making it a vast green space for visitors to explore. It is accessible from both the Tibery and Santa Mônica neighborhoods, ensuring easy access for tourists.

The Museum of Natural Sciences of the Rio Grande do Sul Zoobotanical Foundation is a unique Brazilian museum nestled within the Botanical Garden of Porto Alegre. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore both the museum's exhibits and the surrounding botanical garden, providing a comprehensive experience of the region's natural history and biodiversity.

The Indian Museum, located in the Amazon city of Manaus, is the largest and most comprehensive museum of indigenous history in Brazil. It provides a unique opportunity to delve into the rich and diverse history of the indigenous tribes of the region. The museum's location in Manaus, a city known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty, adds to its appeal for tourists.

The Amazon Museum, located in Manaus, is a supplementary body of the Federal University of Amazonas. This connection to the university ensures that the museum is backed by academic rigor and research, providing visitors with a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the Amazon and its cultures.

The Dr. João Barbosa Rodrigues Botanical Museum, also known as MBot, is a public state museum that is part of the Botanical Institute of São Paulo. It serves as a didactic-expository facility, providing educational and informative exhibits about botany. The museum is conveniently located in the Botanical Garden of São Paulo, specifically in the Cursino district of São Paulo.

The Gama D'Eça Educational Museum is a significant cultural and educational institution in Brazil. It is affiliated with the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) and is situated in the heart of Santa Maria, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The museum boasts a collection that is partially listed by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN), indicating its cultural and historical significance.

The Sabina School Park of Knowledge, located in Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil, is a science museum that offers a unique educational experience. It was established by the Municipal Government of Santo André to provide scientific support to the municipal school network. The museum is a testament to the city's commitment to education and science.

The Institute of Geosciences is not only an academic institution but also a caretaker of three museums. These museums offer a glimpse into the rich geological history and research conducted at the institute. Additionally, the institute publishes the Earth Sciences Research journal, contributing to the global scientific community.

According to the General Course Index 2010, which is organized by the Ministry of Education of Brazil, UNISINOS is ranked among the top four private universities in the country. This ranking is a testament to the quality of education provided by the institution.

The Marília Museum of Paleontology is a science museum situated in the city of Marília, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. It is a significant location for those interested in paleontology and the history of life on Earth.

One of the unique features of Zoo Safári is the opportunity it provides for visitors to interact with the animals, most of which are free-roaming, from the comfort of their cars. This offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to get up close with the animals in a safe and controlled environment.

The Brasília Zoo places a strong emphasis on environmental education, conservation, and the preservation of Brazilian fauna. The zoo operates under the supervision of the state Secretariat for the Environment (Secretaria de Estado de Meio Ambiente do DF (SEMA)), ensuring that all activities align with environmental best practices and conservation efforts.

The park offers a variety of activities for visitors. These include contemplative tourism of wild animals, ecotourism, research, and environmental education. This makes it a great destination for those interested in nature and wildlife.

The Orquidário Municipal de Santos, inaugurated in 1945, is a zoobotanical park that spans 22,240m². It combines the beauty of well-maintained gardens with the raw appeal of natural forests, providing a unique experience for visitors.

The Park Zoo Sapucaia do Sul is situated at stop 41 of BR-116, in the city of Sapucaia do Sul, in the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling through the region.

The Zoológico Municipal de Guarulhos, established in 1982, is home to more than 400 animals from 100 different species. The zoo spans an area of 70,000 m², providing ample space for the animals and a vast area for visitors to explore. The variety of species and the large area make it an interesting destination for tourists interested in wildlife.

A great museum for all those interested in natural sciences and anthropology. It presents many artifacts ranging from fossils to sugar cane.

Aquário Natal, located in Extremoz, is the largest aquarium in the Northeast Region of Brazil. It also serves as a treatment center for animals, making it a unique destination for animal lovers. Notably, it is the only aquarium in the region that houses penguins, offering a rare opportunity to see these fascinating creatures up close.

The Dr. Antônio Teixeira Vianna Ecological Park is situated in the city of São Carlos, São Paulo, and is conveniently located next to the Federal University of São Carlos. This makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area, and provides an opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna.

The Gerdt Hatschbach Botanical Museum, also known as Museu Botânico de Curitiba, is situated in the city of Curitiba, in the Brazilian state of Paraná. This location is easily accessible for tourists visiting the region and offers a unique opportunity to explore Brazil's rich botanical heritage.

The Bauru Municipal Zoo, located in Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil, is a public zoo that has gained recognition for its efforts in preserving Brazilian fauna. This commitment to conservation makes it a unique destination for those interested in wildlife and environmental preservation.

The Estoril Natural Park, located in São Bernardo do Campo, is a significant conservation unit of the Atlantic Forest, the Billings Reservoir, and wildlife. The park spans an impressive area of about 373,000 m², with over 90% of its area dedicated to a preserved fragment of the Atlantic Forest. The park's primary objectives include the preservation of fauna and flora, protection of the water source, environmental education, ecotourism, and the enhancement of local ecological knowledge.

The Bioparque Zoobotânico do Piauí is a significant area dedicated to the protection and conservation of various species of fauna and flora. It is located in the city of Teresina, the capital of Piauí. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city and provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the region.

Dois Irmãos State Park, also known as PEDI, is a unique combination of a park, zoo, and a conservation unit for the Atlantic Forest. It is situated in Recife, PE. The park spans over an impressive area of 1158.42 hectares, out of which 14 hectares are dedicated to the zoo. This vast expanse offers a diverse range of flora and fauna for visitors to explore and appreciate.

Parque Lage, also known as El Parque Henrique Lage, is a public park situated in Rio de Janeiro. It is located at the foot of the Corcovado, on Jardín Botánico street. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the park while being in close proximity to the city's attractions.

The Museu de Arte Sacra da Arquidiocese de Curitiba (MASAC) is an institution dedicated to preserving artifacts related to the history of the Catholic Church in Curitiba, the capital of Paraná. This museum is a part of the Archdiocese of Curitiba and plays a significant role in conserving the religious heritage of the region.

The Walter Ilha Paleontological and Archaeological Museum is situated in São Pedro do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Specifically, it is located at 164 Fernando Ferrari Street. This location is easily accessible and provides a great opportunity for tourists to explore the rich history and culture of the region.

The Fishing Museum of Santos, also known as the Instituto de Pesca de Santos, is a significant institution in Santos, São Paulo. It is dedicated to the scientific and cultural exploration of marine resources, focusing on their preservation and utilization. The museum offers a unique insight into the marine life and the importance of its conservation, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in marine biology and ecology.

The Museum of the American Man is a treasure trove of history, housing more than 700 archaeological sites. These sites contain paintings that date back to over 12,000 years ago, offering a glimpse into the ancient past. The museum's collection is regularly updated as new discoveries are made, ensuring that there is always something new to explore.

The Herbário Profª Drª Marlene Freitas da Silva (MFS) is a university herbarium located in the city of Belém. It is a part of the State University of Pará (UEPA) and is named in honor of the botanist Marlene Freitas da Silva, a renowned taxonomist from the Amazon specializing in the botanical family Leguminosae. The herbarium is registered under the acronym MFS in the Index Herbariorum.

The Exploratory Science Museum of the State University of Campinas is a unique institution that focuses on revealing the intricate relationship between man and nature. Visitors can expect to gain a deeper understanding of how humans interact with the natural world, and how this interaction shapes our environment and our lives.

The Parque Histórico General Bento Gonçalves spans an area of approximately 280 hectares. It features a native forest, ponds, fields and marshes, providing a diverse natural environment for visitors to explore. Additionally, the park also has space designated for camping.

The Earth Sciences Museum, located at 404 Pasteur Avenue in the Urca neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a renowned institution dedicated to the fields of geology and paleontology. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the fascinating world of earth sciences, with a vast collection of exhibits that span across various aspects of these disciplines.

The Lajedo de Soledade Archaeological Site is a significant landmark located in the Apodi Plateau, within the municipality of Apodi, in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. This site is notable for being the largest exposure of limestone rock in the Potiguar Basin, making it a unique geological feature in the region.

The Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, also known as Bica due to a natural potable water source at its center, is a zoo botanical garden located in João Pessoa, Paraíba. It covers an area of 26.8 hectares and is considered an oasis in the middle of the city. This park is a true ecological sanctuary nestled in the center of the Paraíba capital.

The Anthropological Museum of the Federal University of Goiás (UFG) is a significant cultural institution in Brazil. It is situated in Goiânia and is part of the university's extensive network of educational and cultural resources. The museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore Brazil's rich anthropological history.

The Museu das Culturas Dom Bosco, also known as the Museu do Índio, is a renowned Brazilian museum situated in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. The museum was established in the year 1950 and was officially inaugurated on the 27th of October, 1951 by Salesian priests. It is a significant cultural and historical landmark in the region.

The Museu Histórico e Pedagógico Índia Vanuíre boasts a collection of 38,000 items. This includes objects and documents related to the municipality, taxidermied animals, and an ethnographic collection that represents various Brazilian indigenous nations. The Kaingang and Krenak peoples, who inhabit the western region of the state, are primarily represented in this collection.

The Museu de Arqueologia e Paleontologia de Araraquara (MAPA) is an educational and scientific institution situated in the city of Araraquara. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the world of archaeology and paleontology, providing a rich and informative experience.

The Museu de Geologia is open to the public from Monday to Friday, between 9 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm, excluding holidays. It's important to note that visits are only possible by appointment, which can be made via phone or email. This allows for a more personalized and organized visit.

The main attraction of the Parque Estadual de Vila Rica do Espírito Santo is the ruins of Villa Rica del Espiritu Santo. These ruins were declared a state historical heritage in 1948. The site offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to explore the remnants of a once thriving settlement.

The Tietê Museum narrates the story of one of São Paulo's most significant rivers, the Tietê River. This is done through a variety of mediums including documents, objects from the region's indigenous culture, and photographs. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the river's history and its impact on the city and its people.

The Museu Florestal Octávio Vecchi is situated within the Parque Estadual Alberto Löfgren, offering visitors a chance to explore both the museum and the park during their visit. The museum is part of the organizational structure of the Instituto Florestal, a public institution dedicated to scientific research and nature conservation. It is linked to the Secretariat of Infrastructure and Environment of the state of São Paulo, ensuring its commitment to environmental preservation and education.

The Geosciences Museum is situated within the University of São Paulo, more precisely on the Butantã campus. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are already exploring the university or those who are in the vicinity. The museum is a part of the university's Institute of Geosciences, further enhancing its credibility and appeal to those interested in geology, mineralogy, and paleontology.

The museum offers permanent exhibitions that are divided into modules. These modules highlight various aspects of the oceans, including their dynamics, structure, and biodiversity, as well as different aspects of oceanographic science. This provides a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for visitors of all ages.

The museum is located in a small building that spans 340 square meters, nestled within the Parque da Água Branca in the Barra Funda district. It is home to a collection of approximately 3,500 pieces. This includes collections of minerals, rocks, and fossils, along with geological equipment, vintage photographs, and maps.

The Microbiology Museum, inaugurated in 2002, is part of the scientific and cultural complex of the Butantan Institute. This complex also includes the Biological Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Emilio Ribas Public Health Museum. These museums collectively aim to stimulate scientific curiosity, especially among young people, and promote opportunities for the general public to engage with scientific culture through their exhibitions and educational activities.

The Butantan Institute Museum, located in São Paulo, is a unique institution dedicated to scientific research. It is particularly known for its live displays of various species, including snakes, lizards, spiders, and scorpions. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to observe these creatures up close in a safe and controlled environment.

The Museu de Paleontologia Plácido Cidade Nuvens is a Brazilian museum located in Santana do Cariri, Ceará. It houses a significant paleontological collection from the Cariri region and is part of the Regional University of Cariri (URCA). The museum is situated in an area known for one of the highest concentrations of fossils on the planet, preserving evidence from 110 million years ago.

The museum houses a variety of preserved animals in formaldehyde and taxidermized specimens. It also boasts a popular collection of shells, including giant specimens that are over a meter long. This collection is a significant attraction for visitors interested in marine biology and the underwater world.

The Museu Ambiência Casa de Pedra is a museum situated in a historic house in the city of Caxias do Sul, Brazil. This museum is dedicated to recreating the domestic lifestyle of the early Italian settlers in the city. It is an interesting place to visit for those who are interested in history and culture.

The Museum Sacerdote Daniel Cargnin is situated in the city of Mata, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Specifically, it can be found at Comercio Street, 825. This location is easily accessible and provides a great starting point for exploring the city and its rich history.

The Pantanal Aquarium, also known as the Pantanal Biopark, is a significant attraction located in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. This impressive facility was officially opened to the public on March 28, 2022.

The Dinosaur Museum, a paleontological museum, is situated in the city of Uberaba, in Minas Gerais, Brazil. It is a significant location for those interested in paleontology and the history of dinosaurs. The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the prehistoric era and the creatures that once roamed the earth.

The Museu Vivo do Garimpo (MVG) is a museum located in the municipality of Mucugê, in the Chapada Diamantina region of the state of Bahia. It was established in 2007 in the area where the Municipal Park of Mucugê is located. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the museum and the park in the same trip, making it a convenient destination for those interested in the history and natural beauty of the region.

The Lapinha Archaeological Museum, situated in the Brazilian municipality of Lagoa Santa, in Minas Gerais, provides visitors with insights into paleontology and archaeology. This museum is an excellent destination for those interested in learning about ancient civilizations and the history of the region.

The Memorial da Balaiada, located in the city of Caxias, is an educational-cultural center that was inaugurated on June 26, 2004. It is composed of a Museum and a Documentation Center and is situated 365 km from São Luís.

The Valley of the Dinosaurs is renowned for housing hundreds of fossilized dinosaur footprints. This makes it one of the most significant paleontological sites in Brazil, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the prehistoric era.

The Museu do Homem do Sambaqui, located in Brazil, is a museum that is primarily dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural history of the region. It showcases a variety of exhibitions that include native animals and human artifacts. These exhibits provide a unique insight into the rich history and biodiversity of the region.

The Florianópolis Botanical Garden Park is a public space situated in the Itacorubi neighborhood of Florianópolis. The park shares its borders with the Itacorubi Mangrove, offering visitors a unique blend of botanical and aquatic ecosystems.

The Oceanographic Museum Prof. Eliezer de Carvalho Rios is a marine science museum situated in the city of Rio Grande, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. It is a part of the Federal University of Rio Grande (FURG) and is included in the Complex of Museums and Associated Centers of FURG. The museum is open to the public and offers a unique opportunity to learn about marine sciences.

The Fritz Plaumann Entomological Museum is a public institution situated in the city of Seara, in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. This location is significant as it was the home of the renowned entomologist Fritz Plaumann, whose collection forms the basis of the museum's exhibits.

The Museu de Arte Contemporânea, more commonly known as MARCO, is a Brazilian museum situated in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. The museum was established on December 17, 1991, and its new building was finalized in 2002. This information is crucial for tourists who are interested in the history and establishment of the museum.

The Museu de Ciências Naturais da ULBRA, located on the Canoas Campus of ULBRA in Rio Grande do Sul, is a natural science museum. Its mission is not only to provide a leisurely experience but also to raise awareness about the preservation of fauna and flora. This is achieved through environmental education, making it a unique destination for those interested in nature and conservation.

The Museo de la Geodiversidad, also known as MGeo, is a museum that is affiliated with the Institute of Geosciences of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. It was inaugurated in 2007 with the purpose of preserving, researching, and disseminating the geological and paleontological heritage of the Earth.

The Museu de Minerais e Rochas, located in Vitória, is a museum that emphasizes geological science. It is integrated into the Department of Oceanography and Ecology, which is part of the Center for Human and Natural Sciences at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES). This museum is a great place for tourists interested in geology and natural sciences.

The Museu do Negro, located in Rio de Janeiro, is a museum dedicated to the history of black people in Brazil. It particularly focuses on aspects related to religion. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich and diverse history of black people in Brazil, with a special emphasis on their religious practices and beliefs.

The Museu de Minerais e Rochas, located in Vitória, is a museum that emphasizes geological science. It is integrated into the Department of Oceanography and Ecology, which is part of the Center for Human and Natural Sciences at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES). This museum is a great place for tourists interested in geology and natural sciences.

The Museu Paleoarqueológico e Histórico Prefeito Bertoldo Jacobsen is a Brazilian institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage of Taió, a municipality in Santa Catarina. The museum was inaugurated on December 18, 2004, and is named in honor of the first mayor of the municipality. It focuses on themes of paleontology, archaeology, and local history.