Museum Hill, Nairobi

Nairobi National Museum

Kenya's history, cultures, art and natural history under one roof, set in leafy gardens on Museum Hill.

About Nairobi National Museum

The Nairobi National Museum is the flagship of the National Museums of Kenya. Its galleries cover the country's natural history, the story of human origins in East Africa, Kenya's many cultures, and its modern history and art.

It is a good first stop to understand Kenya before heading out on safari, and an easy choice for a rainy morning or a short city day.

Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors. Credits

What to see and do

Natural history
Mounted mammals, birds and other wildlife galleries that help you put names to what you'll see on safari.
Human origins
Displays on East Africa's role in the story of human evolution.
Cultures, history & art
Exhibits on Kenya's communities, the road to independence, and contemporary Kenyan art.
Gardens & Snake Park
Botanic gardens surround the museum, and the Nairobi Snake Park is next door (separate entry).

Good to know

Tickets are bought at the museum. Entry fees and hours are set by National Museums of Kenya and can change.
Allow two to three hours for the main galleries.
Galleries are sometimes closed for renovation or temporary exhibitions; we'll check before your visit.

Suggested itinerary ideas

City dayCombine with a city-centre walk or lunch nearby for a full Nairobi day.
Before your safariVisit on arrival day to get your bearings before heading to the parks.

Book a Guided Tour

Arrange transport to Nairobi National Museum

A private vehicle from your hotel or home, with a return pickup if you like. Entry fees, meals and activities are paid separately unless your quote says otherwise.