AQUATIS is an aquarium-vivarium dedicated to freshwater environments, located in the Vennes district of Lausanne. Follow the water cycle across five continents, from Alpine torrents to mangroves, among fish, reptiles and amphibians.
Aquariums & vivariums
Main highlights
- Large freshwater aquarium-vivarium billed as the largest in Europe, with 46 tanks
- A journey across 5 continents following the water cycle, from mountain springs to estuaries
- 10,000 fish and 100 reptiles and amphibians in carefully recreated habitats
Overview
Opened in 2017, AQUATIS is run by the Fondation de soutien à l’Aquarium de Lausanne. This 3,500 m² complex is devoted to freshwater aquatic environments : rivers, lakes and wetlands from around the world. It takes part in conservation and breeding programmes for endangered species.
The contemporary building, designed by architects Dürig and Boesch, features an undulating façade evocative of waves. Inside, a continuous trail leads visitors from one climate zone to the next, through 46 aquariums and terrariums.
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What to see and do
The visit begins in Europe with Alpine torrents and their brown trout, followed by temperate lakes home to pike and perch. In Africa, you discover the Lake Tanganyika basin and its cichlids, then the Congo marshes with giant catfish and snake-necked turtles.
Asia features the rivers of the Mekong with their freshwater stingrays, as well as mangroves inhabited by mudskippers that can leave the water. The Americas showcase Amazonian piranhas, Mexican axolotls and alligators. The trail ends in Australia, with endemic species such as the rainbowfish.
The vivarium brings together snakes, lizards, frogs and turtles. Video projections, soundscapes and interactive displays accompany the visit. A touch pool lets children touch certain animals under staff supervision.
Practical information
Getting there : Route de Berne 144, Lausanne. The m1 metro stops at Vennes, right in front of the entrance. A 500-space car park is available.
Visit duration : allow 2 to 3 hours for the full trail.
Visitors : the site is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, with lifts and ramps. A children’s trail offers tailored panels and quizzes.
On site : restaurant with a panoramic terrace and a shop.
Visiting tips
Come on a weekday or early in the morning at weekends to avoid the crowds. On arrival, ask about the public feeding sessions, announced on site. Turn off your camera flash so as not to stress the animals.
Young children will find a play area at the end of the trail. This venue is part of the selection The top 10 indoor activities for children in French-speaking Switzerland.
Nearby attractions
- The Olympic Museum, the museum of the International Olympic Committee, stands on the shores of Lake Geneva.
- Lake Sauvabelin is ideal for strolling and wildlife watching in a woodland setting.
- The Sauvabelin Tower, a wooden tower with 151 steps, offers views over Lausanne and Lake Geneva.
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