Nairobi National Museum

The first time I stepped into the Nairobi National Museum was in 2012. I was on a business visit to try and promote a community learning centre we ran at the time. A Kenyan host, who now lives in Germany, took me to the site and I was awed by the richness and display.

Simply put, Nairobi National Museum, officially the National Museum of Kenya (NMK), is Kenya’s icon of historical and cultural richness. It is a unique place where an exhibition of artifacts, literary materials, and wildlife serves as a place of contemplation, learning, and discovery.  The museum is anchored on four pillars –  culture, arts, history, and nature. Let’s explore and learn about this magnificent institution:

1. Brief History of the National Museum of Kenya

First opened in 1930, Nairobi National Museum has gone through several developments over the past 90 years. Formerly named Coryndon Museum after Sir Robert Coryndon, it was renamed National Museum of Kenya post independence in 1963.

2. What to expect at the Nairobi Museum

Permanent galleries at the museum include the Cradle of human kind, The Story of mammals, the History of Kenya, Cycles of life, the Numismatic exhibition and Asian African Heritage exhibition galleries.

• Art

The museum’s extensive modern and traditional African collections will captivate art lovers. Every exhibit, which celebrates the rich cultural legacy of Kenya and beyond, tells a different tale using colourful paintings, sculptures, embroidery, and fabrics. You’ll be amazed by the art gallery, where each carving is a tribute to the creativity and originality of Kenyan artists across time.

• Nature

Nairobi National Museum has a rich botanical garden, a peaceful haven amid the bustle of the city. It is a pleasure for nature lovers!  Here, you can find a tranquil retreat and a luxurious trail through various native plants and trees. If you are a nature enthusiast, you will enjoy the vibrant butterflies flying amid the flowers as you unwind and take in the sights and sounds of the natural world at its most beautiful.

• History

The museum has a vast collection of cultural relics and archaeological items that will captivate history fans. They provide a window into Kenya’s colourful and illustrious past. Ancient fossils, prehistoric tools, traditional clothing, and ceremonial artifacts are just a few exhibits illuminating the various peoples and civilizations that have shaped the area over thousands of years. It provides a fantastic opportunity for you to explore Kenya’s archaeological past to learn more about its past civilizations and the enduring effects they left behind.

3. Where is Nairobi National Museum located

Nairobi National Museum is located about 20 minutes out of the CBD on Museum Hill, Kipande Road. The area is secluded, green and quiet, suitable for a relaxed gateway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

You can get there by local taxis, Uber or Bolt, or through your tour company.

4. Will you be happy with your visit?

Definitely. I was there and appreciated the beauty and richness of the curation although my judgment might be biased. One of the things I look at when assessing the value and popularity of an attraction are Google reviews; the National Museum of Kenya does not disappoint. With over 10,000 reviews, the NMK receives a rating of 4.5 which is excellent.

5. How much is the entry fees for the Nairobi National Museum

The rates differ for Citizens, East African Citizens and Non-residents, and whether you are coming in as a solo visitor, tour group or a school tour. The only way to know is to register via ecitizen and pay from there. Note that the museum does not accept cash payments. Ecitizen accepts both visa and master cards and ofcourse mobile money payments.

6. Opening Hours Nairobi National Museum

The museum is open thoughout the year including public holidays and weekends, Monday to Sunday, 8:30 am–5:30 pm, so you can’t get an excuse for not visiting.

7. How to contact the Nairobi National Museum

If you are organising a school booking, which is common amongst local schools, please contact them via Email: nmkeduc@museums.or.ke; Tel: +254 111 682596.

If however you have comments of a general nature or want to provide feedback you should contact them at Public relations: E-mail: publicrelations@museums.or.ke Tel:+254721308485

In conclusion

What are you waiting for? Whether you are an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, the Nairobi National Museum has something for everyone to enjoy. So come, immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Kenya’s cultural heritage, and let your imagination soar as you embark on a journey of discovery.

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