Explore the Depths of Mazatlan’s Gran Acuario

The vibrant city of Mazatlán, renowned for its golden beaches and sun-kissed shores, has a sparkling new jewel to display: the Gran Acuario Mazatlán. As a hallmark of marine discovery and the most important aquarium in Latin America, this architectural marvel offers visitors an unrivaled experience of the mysteries of the deep with a special focus on the rich local waters of the Sea of Cortez.

Opened in April 2023, this $99.3 million masterpiece is the largest aquarium in Mexico and anchors Mazatlán’s sprawling 75-acre Central Park. Behind its walls lies a captivating world of 26 unique habitats that shed light on the impressive biodiversity of the Sea of Cortez. And just last month, the aquarium unveiled new sea lion and penguin exhibits, adding another 259,000 square feet to the facility. From vibrant corals to majestic manta rays, the Gran Acuario Mazatlán is now home to more than 260 marine species, making every visit a new journey of discovery. The world-class leisure destination features a botanical garden, 19 exhibition rooms, and a 240-person auditorium for educational and entertainment programming.

The creative talent behind the building’s impressive design is renowned Mexican architect Tatiana Bilbao Estudio. Seamlessly merging architecture with nature, the space embodies the point where “the sea and terrestrial nature encounter architecture and the human world,” according to Bilbao Estudio. The concept echoes throughout the aquarium, from its cascading 32-foot waterfall and the suspended walkways in the aviary to the mesmerizing 42-foot-tall glass window that reveals the wonders of the Great Ocean Tank.

As you navigate the three floors of the facility, you’re met with an array of exhibits that educate, entertain, and inspire. But beyond its visual allure, the Gran Acuario Mazatlán is on a mission. To maintain its keen focus on conservation, a slice of the revenue is allocated to support a research center dedicated exclusively to preserving the biodiversity in the Sea of Cortez — a place so special that famed French oceanographer and explorer Jacques Cousteau labeled “the aquarium of the world.”

But this monumental project would not have seen the light of day if it weren’t for the collaborative spirit of its public-private partnerships. Pueblo Bonito Resorts’ founder and Mazatlán native, Ernesto Coppel, played a significant role in turning this vision into reality. Bolstered by support from institutions such as the Ministry of Tourism, Bancomext, Banobras, and the Government of Sinaloa, the Gran Acuario Mazatlán stands as a testament to collective ambition and community sponsorship.

In the heart of Mazatlán, the Gran Acuario Mazatlán beckons you to discover, learn, and be enchanted by the treasures of the deep. It promises not just a visit but an adventure — an immersive experience that sparks curiosity and fuels a passion for the marine world. If you're ready to dive into this world-class experience, the Gran Acuario Mazatlán is waiting for you.

Entrance fees are now included in the all-inclusive plan for guests and owners staying at any of the Pueblo Bonito resorts in Mazatlán. For guests who did not purchase the plan, fees are as follows:

Admission Fees*
Adults (12 and over) – $380 MXN  (approx. $20 USD)
Children (4-11) – $280 MXN (approx. $15 USD)
Children 3 and under – FREE
*subject to change

Days and Hours of Operation
Monday – Sunday | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

For a detailed journey and to chart your own adventure, check out their website at granacuario.com.

Dive in, the wonders of the Sea of Cortez await!