Mundo Marino

Mundo Marino is a public aquarium in San Clemente del Tuyú, Argentina, that covers 18 hectares with 20 pools housing more than 50 marine mammals, 80 birds, and many coastal species. The facility is divided into several zones with different pools for dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and other marine animals, plus outdoor areas for birds and spaces for animal care.

Juan David Méndez purchased the land in the 1960s to help stranded animals and officially opened the facility to visitors in January 1979. Since then, the site has grown into one of the largest marine aquariums in South America and houses animals rescued from along the Argentine coast.

Dolphins and sea lions here take part in demonstrations that show visitors how trainers work and communicate with the animals. After each demonstration, staff explain how these marine mammals behave in their natural habitat and why their conservation matters.

The facility sits at the northern end of Argentina's Atlantic coast and opens daily from 10 AM to 6 PM with multiple shows and feedings spread throughout the day. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes because the grounds are large and plan enough time to see all the areas.

An orca named Kshamenk lives here and has fathered two calves through artificial insemination, which is rare for orcas in human care. Researchers work with him to learn more about the behavior and reproduction of this species.