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Djibouti Aquarium
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kid-landmark
The Djibouti Aquarium, officially part of the Centre d'Étude et de Recherche de Djibouti (CERD), is a central institution for documenting and presenting the marine biodiversity of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Located near the capital's port, it houses numerous display tanks reflecting the country's various marine habitats. Visitors can observe rare reef fish, invertebrates, and local coral species up close without having to dive. The institution serves not only education but is also an important research center for marine biologists studying the impacts of climate change on coral reefs. The aquarium places special emphasis on education regarding marine environmental protection and the sustainable use of resources. The building's architecture is functional and designed to keep sensitive organisms under controlled conditions. For Djibouti's national identity, the aquarium is a symbol of pride in the natural wealth of its own coastal waters.
- Location: Djibouti
- Top sights: Cathedrale Notre-Dame du Bon-Pasteur - ktdry'y@ lsyd@ l`dhr lr`y lSlH · Plage de la Siesta shTy' lqylwl@ · Centre Culturel Institut Francais Arthur Rimbaud lmrkz lthqfy lm`hd lfrnsy arthr rmbw
- Nearby: Negad (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 31 | 34 | 34 | 34 | 33 | 29 | 27 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 6 | 6 | 20 | 51 | 27 | 7 | 17 | 27 | 31 | 21 | 10 | 14 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Djibouti Aquarium is a smaller but fascinating destination for children, showcasing the rich marine life of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The exhibition areas are accessible and offer views of coral reefs and tropical fish.
Typical hours
Typically, the aquarium is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with a lunch break from 12 to 2 pm. On Fridays, hours may be shorter due to prayer.
Photography
Photography is allowed without flash so as not to disturb sensitive corals and fish. In some areas, there may be a photography ban for certain tanks.
Time needed
A visit typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. For families with children, the aquarium is suitable as it is compact and not too time-consuming.
Combine with
The aquarium is located near Djibouti City's central market and the Presidential Palace. Combining it with a coastal walk provides a varied day.
Getting there
The aquarium is reachable by taxi or on foot as it is in the city center. Public buses stop near the market; from there it's about a 10-minute walk.
Insider tip
Visit the aquarium in the morning when the animals are most active. Ask about feeding times - these are often a highlight for children.
Geography
Facts
- Organization: Part of the CERD research center
- Location: Near the port of Djibouti City
- Focus: Species of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden
- Research: Study of coral bleaching and marine temperatures
- Education: School outreach programs on marine ecology
- Exhibits: Live coral systems and endemic reef fish
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Djibouti Aquarium (6)
Theatre des Salines lmsrH lmlH@
Theatre building in Djibouti City, used for performances.
Plage de Heron shTy' lblshwn
Beach section near the port, quieter than central beaches.
Plage Sud
Southern beach of Djibouti City, frequented by locals.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you see at the Djibouti Aquarium?
The aquarium showcases the diversity of the Red Sea, including colorful fish, corals, and local marine fauna.
What are the opening hours?
It is normally open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; hours may vary on Fridays.
Is the aquarium suitable for children?
Yes, it is a good destination for families to learn about the underwater world without diving.
Where is the aquarium located?
It is centrally located in Djibouti City and easily accessible by taxi or on foot.
How much time should you plan for the visit?
A tour takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how closely you view the tanks.
Djibouti Aquarium: where is it located?
Djibouti Aquarium is located in Djibouti.
Djibouti Aquarium: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cathedrale Notre-Dame du Bon-Pasteur - ktdry'y@ lsyd@ l`dhr lr`y lSlH, Plage de la Siesta shTy' lqylwl@, Centre Culturel Institut Francais Arthur Rimbaud lmrkz lthqfy lm`hd lfrnsy arthr rmbw.
Djibouti Aquarium: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Djibouti Aquarium: why is it worth visiting?
The Djibouti Aquarium, officially part of the Centre d'Étude et de Recherche de Djibouti (CERD), is a central institution for documenting and presenting the marine biodiversity of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
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History & landmarks
French Embassy
A historic building representing the long-standing relations between France and Djibouti.
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Good Shepherd
The Roman Catholic Cathedral of Djibouti stands out with its modern yet simple architecture.
Presidential Palace
The official residence of the President of Djibouti, located at the tip of a peninsula overlooking the sea.
Bank of Africa Tower
One of the tallest and most modern buildings in the city, shaping Djibouti's skyline.
Place Menelik
The city's central square, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, cafes, and shops.
Al-Sada Mosque
An impressive mosque near the port, known for its elegant construction.
Hamoudi Mosque
One of the oldest and most famous mosques in the city, located in the heart of the bustling market.
Institut Français de Djibouti
An important cultural center promoting the French language and culture.
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