Budapest’s Tropicarium, the city’s famed Shark Zoo, is geared up for 2026 with a packed slate of colorful programs and head-turning feeding shows for ocean and exotic-animal lovers. Open every day, it’s a hands-on escape where visitors of all ages get a front-row view of daily animal drama and the raw power of nature—all under one roof.
Get Closer Than You Thought Possible
Curious how a sand tiger shark devours lunch? Want a peek at the strange table manners of snakes? Here, you can watch it unfold—and in some programs, even take part in the feeding yourself. That means getting even closer to the natural world without leaving Budapest.
Rainforest Thrills—and You’re in on It
In the rainforest zone, grab feed from a vending machine and hand-feed vibrant koi carp that live right beside the alligators—equal parts thrilling and unforgettable. Guided tours let you observe piranhas up close and, with expert supervision, feed rays, monkeys, and birds. Monkey feedings typically happen 11:30–12:00 and again 15:30–16:00.
Feeding Show Schedule
– Monday 14:00 snakes; 14:30 alligator (every third Monday of the month)
– Tuesday —
– Wednesday 14:00 monitor lizard (temporarily paused)
– Thursday 14:30 shark feeding
– Friday 15:30 cotton-top tamarin feeding
Sharks, Rays, Reptiles—and a Storm Every 15 Minutes
The “shark zoo” gathers creatures from around the world: laid-back alligators, exotic reptiles and amphibians, tiny monkeys, free-flying birds, and thousands of shimmering fish—plus the seas’ heavyweight stars, the sharks. At the ray touch pool, everyone can gently pet these graceful gliders and, with keepers’ help, even feed them.
Walk Beneath the Hunters
A 39-foot panoramic tunnel runs under the shark aquarium, putting sand tiger and brown sharks practically at arm’s length. Every Thursday at 15:00, divers hand-feed these predators in a spectacular show. Over in the rainforest, tropical rain showers burst to life above the alligators every 15 minutes.
