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The bounty of two oceans collected
The Two Oceans Aquarium, Western Cape
The awe-inspiring Two Oceans Aquarium
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
Staff at the aquarium participate in monthly coastal clean-ups... and volunteers are welcome to join.
The southern tip of Africa is the meeting place of two mighty oceans, the Indian and Atlantic, and the Two Oceans Aquarium is perfectly placed to showcase the incredible diversity of marine life from these bountiful oceans.
This Cape Town aquarium is among the top tourist attractions in the Mother City, a city never short of attractions, and with over 8 000 specimens representing over 300 species in their care it's not hard understand such popularity.
Most popular of all the displays is the magnificent I&J Predator Exhibit, the grand finale to a Two Oceans Aquarium visit. Here, in more than 2 million litres of seawater, large ragged tooth sharks patrol the tank as graceful rays, loggerhead turtles and shoals of silvery barracuda flash-by.
If you hold an open-water diving certificate – and are feeling particularly brave – there is also the option of taking a dive in the Predator Exhibit tank. Shark sightings are guaranteed. Those of a less bold nature can dive and feed the fishes by hand in the more sedate Kelp Forest.
While lacking in the visceral thrills of big marine predators, the Kelp Forest exhibit is equally popular and is one of only two living kelp forests on display in an aquarium, the other being in the Monterey Bay Aquarium in the U.S.A. The kelp forest exhibit here contains three species of giant kelp that provide shelter to a variety of smaller fish species.
Slightly different for an aquarium is the Sappi River Meander, a display that traces a typical Western Cape river's journey, from it's mouth all the way to the source upstream.
While adults will thoroughly enjoy the Two Oceans Aquarium, it's the younger members of the family who will be really thrilled, especially when they discover the play area right next to the seal display – here children and seals have fun alongside one another. A touch-pool adds to the appeal and the aquarium often runs special programmes and tours aimed at children.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Two Oceans Aquarium
Tel: +27 (0) 21 418 3823
Email: aquarium@aquarium.co.za
How to get here
The Two Oceans Aquarium is located next to the V&A Waterfront near the harbour. There's plenty of parking and it's easily accessible by car, bus or taxi.
Around the area
The V&A Waterfront next door is a shopping mecca and also boasts a number of nautical themed pubs and restaurants as well as loads of entertainment for the family.
Tours to do
If you have an open water diving certificate don't miss the opportunity to dive with sharks or feed the fish in the Kelp Forest by hand.
What will it cost
Approx. R96 for adults, R46 for children aged between 4 and 13, R74 for those aged between 14 and 17. Children under the age of 4 are admitted free of charge.
What to pack
Comfortable walking shoes.
What to eat
The V&A Waterfront next door has a wide variety of restaurant and fast-food options. The aquarium itself has a shop selling snacks and cool drinks.
What's happening
The aquarium offers an enticing range of educational programmes and tours. Visit the website for more information.
Best buys
Aquarium souvenirs and marine-themed gifts are on sale at the Aquarium Shop on site.