Overview
The Nairobi National Museum is a premier national museum showcasing Kenya's history, culture, and natural heritage. It is set within a beautiful park setting, making it a unique blend of culture and nature.
It is the largest and most prominent museum in Kenya, offering a comprehensive overview of the country's diverse heritage.
Location
Address
Kipande Road, Nairobi
Neighborhood: Kilimani
Coordinates
-1.292100, 36.821900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June-September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and pleasant
- • lush gardens
summer
hot
- • extended hours
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall foliage
winter
cooler temperatures
- • holiday decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online in advance
- Bring a valid ID
- Check the weather and dress accordingly
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate
- • Stay hydrated
- • Use sunscreen
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash (KES), credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard)
Currency
Kenyan Shillings (KES)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable walking shoes and light clothing, walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least a week in advance
- • official museum website
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Nairobi National Museum App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guides, Ticket booking, Exhibit information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe area
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: it's a place of national pride and offers a deep connection to Kenyan heritage
Historical Significance: it houses important artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Kenya's past and present
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience
- The best local food can be found at the back entrance stalls
- Free entry for Kenyan citizens on certain days
Local Recommendations
- • Try local coffee at the on-site cafe
- • Ask for local guides who can provide rich insights
- • Visit nearby Karen Blixen Museum
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Swahili, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for dramatic shots
Result: great architectural shots
Gardens
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Wide shots to capture the landscape
Result: stunning nature photos
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Karen Blixen Museum
Distance: 7 km
Walking: 15 min by car
Type: Museum
Nairobi Arboretum
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 10 min by car
Type: Park
Bomas of Kenya
Distance: 10 km
Walking: 20 min by car
Type: Cultural Center
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online to skip the line"
- "Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience"
- "Don't miss the cultural performances"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
1 Day trip to Hells Gate and Lake Naivasha From Nairobi
NAI NAMI: Nairobi Storytelling Tour
Nairobi City Walking Tour with Traditional Kenyan Lunch
Nairobi Airport Layover Tour to Nairobi National Museum
Nairobi National Museum and Snake Park Guided Day Tour
3 Days Masai Mara Private Safari at Sopa Lodge from Nairobi
One Day Tour to Maasai Mara Game reserve from Nairobi
Nairobi Historical City Tour
Private Layover Tour to Hells Gate National park with Optional Boat Ride
Nairobi City Centre Tours
Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre Tour
Nairobi Highlights Shared Day Tour by 4WD
Full-Day Lake Nakuru National Park Private Tour from Nairobi
1 Day Tour Nairobi National Park, Elephant Center, Giraffe Ctr
Private Day Tour to Nairobi Art Galleries
Lake Naivasha and Hellsgate Day Tour from Nairobi
Overnight Safari To Aberdare National Park From Nairobi
Nairobi to Mount Kenya Full Day Private Tour
Nairobi National Park & Elephant Orphanage Day Tour
Tour Elephant Orphanage & Nairobi National park
Day tour to Olpejeta Conservancy from Nairobi
Mt Kenya Day Trip Hike From Nairobi (Cost Based on Minimum 2 persons)
4 Days Ol Pejeta & Samburu National Reserve Safari
3 Days Aberdare National Park Safari
Quick Info
Available Tours
98
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
1000 KES