Planning a trip to China any time soon? If so, you have great timing: A full three years after construction began, the world’s largest aquarium has opened on Hengqin Island near Macao, in China’s southeastern Guangdong province. Guinness World Records confirms that the 125-acre aquatic theme park, called Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, now not only bears the title of largest aquarium in the world, but also snapped up first-place titles for largest underwater viewing dome, largest aquarium tank, largest aquarium window, and largest acrylic panel.
The park holds a whopping 12.87 million gallons of total saltwater and includes attractions like a whale shark exhibit, penguins, polar bears, exotic pantropical spotted dolphins, and Chinese white dolphins.
But if you’re traveling outside of China and are still looking to fill an afternoon between business meetings, don’t worry—there are incredible, unique aquariums all over the world that are worth a visit.
Berlin — the AquaDom
Traveling in Germany? Take a look at the AquaDom. Though certainly not the largest, it’s one of the most unique sea life exhibits in the world, featuring a huge, cylindrical aquarium that you can view from the inside — totally surrounded by water. Located in the heart of Berlin, the AquaDom is just a short walk from Alexanderplatz, Hackesche Höfe, Rotes Rathaus, and Berliner Dom.
Shanghai — Shanghai Ocean Aquarium
Speaking of China, you might also want to check out the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. Built as a joint venture by Singapore-based Straco Corporation Limited and China’s Poly Group, this aquarium holds the record for the longest underwater tunnel — a full 509 feet. It also contains some endangered species, including the Yangtze alligator and giant salamander, which you are not likely to see in the wild. Visitors find the “round the world” journey fascinating as it takes you through the flooded forests of the Amazon, the rivers of Africa, and the icy waters of the Antarctic.
Durban — uShaka Marine World
Don’t miss South Africa’s uShaka Marine World, located in Durban. This world-class park includes a giant shipwreck and the largest aquarium in Africa. You can immerse yourself into the world of living sharks and get close from the safety of your shark cage. You can also meet dolphins and seals, and feed the rays. Dine in the Cargo Hold, one of the restaurants on property, and watch the sharks swim by as you enjoy your culinary adventure.
Valencia — L’Oceanografic
Holding the record for the largest aquarium in Europe is the breathtaking L’Oceanografic. View more than 45,000 species from three different ecosystems: Antarctic, Arctic, and Mediterranean. As an added bonus, the building’s architecture is nearly as beautiful as its aquatic contents.
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom might have captured an impressive array of “world’s best” titles, but there are plenty of beautiful, educational, and awe-inspiring aquariums out there to distract and entertain you and yours while traveling.