Kenya's national museum, Museum Hill

Nairobi National Museum

Nairobi National Museum is the flagship museum of the National Museums of Kenya, on Museum Hill. Its galleries cover human origins, natural history, culture and the history of Kenya, and the grounds include botanical gardens.

What makes it special

Its origins go back to 1910, when members of the East Africa and Uganda Natural History Society needed a place to keep specimens.
It opened on Museum Hill in 1930 as the Coryndon Museum and was renamed the National Museum of Kenya in 1963, after independence.
After a modernisation programme, it reopened in June 2008 as Nairobi National Museum.
Galleries include the Cradle of Humankind, Birds of East Africa, the Story of Mammals, the History of Kenya and Cycles of Life.

Good to know

Located on Museum Hill, about 20 minutes from Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Open Monday to Sunday, 8:30am to 5:30pm, including weekends and public holidays — check times before you go.
The Nairobi Snake Park and botanical gardens are on the same grounds; the Snake Park is listed separately by NMK.
Works well as a morning or afternoon stop on a Nairobi city tour.

Why visit

It gives an overview of Kenya’s natural and cultural history in one place, from early human ancestors to independence. It is useful context before a safari, especially the bird and mammal galleries.

Experience it with Mbutu Tours & Safaris

It fits into a half-day Nairobi city tour or can be combined with other central Nairobi sights on a full-day tour.

At a glance

Known for
Kenya’s history, culture, human origins and natural history

Activities
Gallery visits, botanical garden walk, Snake Park visit, gift shop

TRA Licence No

TRA2/1/C01/47054

Safaris

Safaris and day tours that go here

Ask us to include a visit in a tailor-made trip.

We make it happen

Plan your safari

Tell us your dates and which parks caught your eye. We will suggest the route.