The Ailand in Астана stands out as a remarkable destination because the entertainment center is home to the only oceanarium in Kazakhstan, an astonishing spectacle set deep within the country’s steppe, far from any coast. What makes this oceanarium even more unique is its world record status: according to the Guinness Book of World Records, it is the most distant aquarium from any sea or ocean, situated more than 3,000 kilometers from the nearest coastline. Since its opening in 2003, the oceanarium rapidly became one of Kazakhstan’s main tourist attractions and a point of local pride, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
Walking into the oceanarium, you immediately sense the scale and ambition of the project: over 3 million liters of water, mixed with 120 tons of sea salt, create optimal conditions for almost 3,000 marine creatures representing more than 100 species from all over the world. One of the highlights for any visitor is the 70-meter-long acrylic tunnel, a transparent passage that allows you to walk beneath swirling shoals of fish, gliding sharks, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reef life. It is an immersive experience that makes you feel as if you’ve been transported somewhere between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, despite still being in the heart of Central Asia.
The oceanarium is carefully maintained by a team of specialists who oversee an advanced water purification and maintenance system, ensuring stable living conditions for its diverse inhabitants. The layout allows guests to observe species from South American freshwaters, Southeast Asian rivers, and dazzling coral reefs, all in carefully designed exhibition areas. Whether you’re a family with children, a marine life enthusiast, or simply curious about how the ocean appears in the Kazakh steppe, a visit to Ailand’s oceanarium is great. The indoor pool and the jungle are nice for entertaining kids.
Ailand
Астана
Kazakhstan
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