The National Museum of Kenya sits on Museum Hill, a short drive from downtown Nairobi, and covers the country's history from early human fossils to contemporary art. The early man section holds fossils found in Kenya, and the Hall of Mammals shows giraffes, elephants, zebras and okapi in dioramas. Set aside time for the botanical gardens and the Snake Park next door, which can be included on a combined ticket. Plan a morning or afternoon.
Early human fossils
The early man section is the museum's best-known draw. Richard and Mary Leakey's work near Lake Turkana in the 1960s led to the discovery of the skull and bones of Homo habilis, a species believed to be an early ancestor of humans. Their findings helped establish the Rift Valley as a possible Cradle of Humankind, although South Africa's Sterkfontein Caves and Ethiopia's Hadar region also claim the title.
The fossils on display include pieces found in Kenya, such as a proconsul fossil dated to 18 million years ago. That find encouraged archaeologists to consider Kenya as a possible birthplace of humankind. Homo erectus remains are displayed together in one place.
Mammals, birds and dioramas
The Great Hall of Mammals has dioramas of giraffes, elephants, zebras and okapi, and most of the country's mammal species are arranged along the walls. The museum also holds more than 900 stuffed birds and mammals, and a bird gallery is among its highlights.
Some of the taxidermy is old and needs care. It is best seen as a record of the collection rather than a polished display.
Cultures, art and the Geology Gallery
Ethnic displays cover Kenya's many communities, with tribal artifacts from across the country, and the museum holds some of the best-preserved examples in the country. A permanent exhibition focuses on Kenya's heritage and communities.
The Geology Gallery holds a large collection of rocks and minerals, with displays on tectonic plates and the life cycle of a volcano. The art collection includes a display of work by Joy Adamson, the author of Born Free, and an artist-in-residence program.
The Louis Leakey auditorium hosts music, visual arts and film shows, along with art workshops.
The Snake Park and the gardens
The Snake Park sits next to the museum and has live snakes, an aquarium and turtles. A combined ticket covers the museum and the park. If you only want the galleries, ask at the desk about ticket options before you pay.
The botanical gardens surround the museum, and a nature trail runs through them. The trail is home to the largest python in Kenya. An outdoor amphitheater on the grounds has wide views toward the Ngong Hills.
A short history of the building
The museum began with specimens kept by a group of naturalists, who needed a place to store and preserve their collections. Those collections later moved to a larger building, and the current building dates from 1929.
The museum is the flagship of the National Museums of Kenya, a network of museums and sites across the country. Among its displays is the tusker Ahmed, who was kept under round-the-clock guard by armed rangers during the poaching crisis of the 1980s.
Planning the visit
The museum is on Kipande Road, known locally as Museum Hill, a short drive from downtown Nairobi. Parking is on site, and there is also a free parking lot.
The entrance, elevator, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. A changing table is available for babies. A restaurant with a terrace serves Kenyan food, a good stop after the galleries.
FAQ
How long do you need at the National Museum of Kenya?
Plan two to three hours. Some visitors spend a full morning or afternoon there.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, elevator, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Is there parking?
Yes. There is on-site parking and a free parking lot.
Can I visit the Snake Park too?
Yes. The Snake Park is next to the museum and can be visited on a combined ticket.
Is the museum good for children?
Yes. It is family-friendly, and it runs workshops for children on pottery and beadwork.
