Two Oceans Aquarium 2024

The inside scoop on Two Oceans Aquarium

How to skip queues, penguin love stories + the magic most people miss

Last updated: Thursday, 22 July 2025

Two Oceans Aquarium is a Cape Town institution, with so much to rediscover each time you visit. So many people often miss the treasures: Brainless jellies grown in a behind-the-scenes lab, sharks with distinct personalities (our favourite is the gentle Gemma), and African penguin lovers who have been bonded for decades. 

We spoke to Msa Maseko, senior guide, and Aryton King, aquarist, about the aquarium’s hidden secrets and tips. Here’s the inside scoop. 


The aquarium has over 8 000 curious marine creatures. Image: Two Oceans Aquarium

The best time to visit (and skip the queue) is…

In the afternoon on a sunny weekday. Mornings are often busy with school groups, but things quiet down after 2pm. By 5pm it’s almost empty - that last hour before

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