museum · Belém, PA
Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi
A research institution founded in the 19th century, with a zoo and botanical park, an archaeological collection and exhibitions about the Amazon. The walk is under centuries-old trees.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi
The Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi is one of the oldest research institutions in Brazil. It was founded in 1866 and named after Swiss zoologist Emílio Goeldi, who reorganized it in the late 19th century. In 1895 its Zoobotanical Park opened to the public, considered the first of its kind in the country.
The park takes up an entire city block in the São Brás neighborhood, near downtown Belém. It is a patch of forest in the middle of the city, with centuries-old trees, shaded trails and a cooler climate than the surrounding streets.
Along the way you see Amazon animals in enclosures, such as caimans, turtles, monkeys and birds, and a pond with giant water lilies. There is also the Jacques Huber Aquarium, exhibitions about the region and historic buildings, such as the Rocinha, an old house that is the museum's symbol.
The walk is flat and relaxed, good for families with children and nature lovers. It is an easy way to see forest animals and plants without leaving the city.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
An hour and a half to two hours is enough to walk the trails and see the animals, the giant water lily pond and the aquarium.
Best time
In the morning, when it is less hot and the animals are more active. The shade of the trees helps year-round, but in the rainiest period (December to May) the rain usually comes in the afternoon.
How to get there
It is on Avenida Magalhães Barata, in the São Brás neighborhood, near downtown Belém. You can get there by bus along the avenue, by taxi or by ride-hailing car.
Tip
The park is not open every day of the week and the hours change; check the official website before you go. There is a small entrance fee, with free admission for children, seniors and people with disabilities. Bring insect repellent.
Official website
A look at the place
Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi
Is there an entrance fee for the Museu Goeldi?
Yes, there is a small entrance fee for the Zoobotanical Park. Children, seniors and people with disabilities get in free.
How long does a visit to the Museu Goeldi take?
Usually an hour and a half to two hours to walk the trails and see the animals and the aquarium.
Is the Museu Goeldi open every day?
No. The park is only open on some days of the week and the hours may change; check the official website before you go.
What animals are at the Museu Goeldi?
Amazon animals such as caimans, turtles, monkeys and birds, plus fish in the aquarium and a pond with giant water lilies.
Where is the Museu Goeldi?
On Avenida Magalhães Barata, in the São Brás neighborhood, near downtown Belém. You can get there by bus, taxi or ride-hailing app.