Welcome to Nairobi, a vibrant city that is rich in culture and history. It is no surprise that Nairobi has become one of the best destinations in Africa for art and history enthusiasts. Nairobi is home to numerous museums that showcase fascinating exhibits, stories, and artifacts that are sure to captivate your interest. If you are planning to visit Nairobi, or you are a resident looking for new places to explore, then join us as we explore the best museums that Nairobi has to offer. In this article, we highlight some of the top museums in Nairobi that you don’t want to miss.

The 2 Best Fun Art Museums in Nairobi

1. Nairobi: Elephants, Giraffe Center, and Blixen Museum Tour
2. Giraffe Center and Karen Blixen Museum Tour from Nairobi

The 2 Best Fun Art Museums in Nairobi

1. Nairobi: Elephants, Giraffe Center, and Blixen Museum Tour

Combine three of Nairobi’s top attractions on this half-day tour, perfect for those with limited time or looking to experience multiple highlights in a short period. Enjoy free pick-up and drop-off from any hotel within Nairobi city.

The tour begins with a visit to the David Sheldrick Trust, where you’ll learn about elephant conservation and have the opportunity to see orphaned baby elephants up close. Next, head to the Giraffe Centre, where Rothschild’s giraffes roam free. Trained staff provide insight into these magnificent creatures and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them in their natural habitat.

The final stop is the Karen Blixen Museum, located on a beautiful historic plantation which was once owned by writer Karen Blixen. Immerse yourself in the history of this iconic author and explore the lush landscape and colonial architecture.

All of these amazing locations are included in this guided tour, ensuring that visitors to Nairobi can experience some of the most important conservation work and cultural landmarks in the area.

2. Giraffe Center and Karen Blixen Museum Tour from Nairobi

Begin your 4-hour trip with a visit to the Giraffe Center where you can see giraffes living in a semi-wild state, including Daisy Rothschild and her family who formed a small part of the herd living at Giraffe Manor. Take a nature trail to the Gogo River and search for giraffes in the wild.

Next, continue with a drive to Karen Blixen’s home which was made famous by the film Out of Africa. Karen Blixen lived in the house from 1917 to 1931 when the farm was sold and she left Kenya. From the garden, enjoy magnificent views of the Ngong Hills.

Finally, visit nearby Kazuri Ltd. where African women offer paintings and necklaces for sale. All entry fees are included in this tour, as well as transportation and a guided tour of the Giraffe Center and the Karen Blixen Museum. Tips/gratuities are also included. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children aged under 3 years old.

The Ultimate Guide to the Museums of Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, has a rich cultural history that’s showcased in its numerous museums. Museums in Nairobi cater to a wide range of interests, including art, culture, history, and science.If you’re planning to visit Nairobi and want to explore the city’s museums, you might have some questions. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the museums of Nairobi.

1. What are the must-visit museums in Nairobi?

Nairobi has several museums that are worth a visit, depending on your interests. Some of the must-visit museums in Nairobi are:

National Museum of Kenya

The National Museum of Kenya is a multi-disciplinary museum that showcases Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage. It’s home to various galleries and exhibitions, including exhibits on prehistory, biodiversity, and culture.

Nairobi Gallery

Nairobi Gallery is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Nairobi. It’s home to various artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts.

Karen Blixen Museum

The Karen Blixen Museum is dedicated to the famous author of the book “Out of Africa.” The iconic museum showcases her life in Kenya and features her original furniture, photos, and belongings.

Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is a conservation center located in Lang’ata, Nairobi that aims to protect the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. Visitors can feed and interact with the giraffes in a natural environment.

2. What are the visiting hours and admission fees for the museums?

The visiting hours and admission fees vary from one museum to another. Here are the visiting hours and admission fees for some of the popular museums in Nairobi:

National Museum of Kenya

The National Museum of Kenya is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. The admission fee is Ksh 1,500 for non-residents, Ksh 1,200 for residents, and Ksh 600 for children.

Nairobi Gallery

The Nairobi Gallery is open from Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm and on Saturdays from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. The admission fee is Ksh 400 for adults and Ksh 200 for students and children.

Karen Blixen Museum

The Karen Blixen Museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The admission fee is Ksh 1,500 for non-residents, Ksh 1,200 for residents, and Ksh 500 for children.

Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The admission fee is Ksh 1,000 for non-residents, Ksh 500 for residents, and Ksh 250 for children.

3. Are there any guided tours available in the museums?

Most of the museums in Nairobi offer guided tours, which are recommended for first-time visitors. The guided tours provide a wealth of information about the exhibits and the cultural and historical significance of the museums.

4. Are there any special events or exhibitions held at the museums?

Yes, most of the museums in Nairobi hold special events and exhibitions throughout the year. The events and exhibitions are usually themed around holidays, cultural celebrations, or special occasions.

National Museum of Kenya

The National Museum of Kenya hosts several events and exhibitions throughout the year. Some of the upcoming events include the World Environment Day, World Heritage Day, and the Annual Photography Contest.

Nairobi Gallery

The Nairobi Gallery hosts several exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing various contemporary artworks by local and international artists.

Karen Blixen Museum

The Karen Blixen Museum hosts special events and exhibitions throughout the year, including book launches, poetry readings, and art exhibitions.

Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre hosts several events throughout the year, including the Annual Giraffe Festival, which aims to promote conservation awareness among the local communities.

5. Are there any restrictions when taking photographs inside the museums?

Yes, most of the museums in Nairobi have restrictions on taking photographs inside the exhibits. Visitors are advised to check with the museum’s management before taking photographs.

National Museum of Kenya

Visitors can take photographs in most areas of the National Museum of Kenya, but there are restrictions on taking photographs in some exhibits.

Nairobi Gallery

Photography is allowed in the Nairobi Gallery, but visitors are advised to seek permission from the museum’s management.

Karen Blixen Museum

Visitors are not allowed to take photographs inside the Karen Blixen Museum.

Giraffe Centre

Visitors are allowed to take photographs in the Giraffe Centre, but are advised not to use flash photography.

How to Find the Best Museums in Nairobi

Planning a trip to Nairobi and looking to explore the rich culture and history of the city? Nairobi is home to some of the most impressive museums in East Africa, showcasing the country’s art, culture, and history. Here’s a guide to help you find the best museums in Nairobi to visit.

1. Research and Plan in Advance

Before visiting any museum, it is essential to do thorough research on the ones that interest you. Explore each museum’s website and official social media accounts, check opening times, entry fee, and any restrictions on entry. Make a list of the potential museums to visit and the time and day you plan to visit.

By researching and planning in advance, you will be able to make the most of your time, avoid long queues, and have an enjoyable experience altogether.

2. Visit the National Museums of Kenya

Nairobi’s National Museum is one of the country’s most popular museums, and for a good reason. The museum features a wide collection of artifacts from the prehistoric era to the current modern society, including nature, culture, art, and history.

The museum’s centerpiece is the famous Hominid skull, which belongs to the earliest known human, Homo erectus. The museum also features a Snake Park showcasing snakes and reptiles found in Kenya.

3. Karen Blixen Museum

The Karen Blixen Museum is a popular tourist destination for visitors to Nairobi, and an excellent choice for fans of the movie “Out of Africa.” The museum was once the home of Karen Blixen, a Danish author, and muse in the early 1900s.

The museum features antique furniture, art, and photographs used to decorate the house as seen in the movie. The lush gardens surrounding the house are also worth exploring.

4. Nairobi Gallery

The Nairobi Gallery is another must-visit museum in Nairobi, especially if you’re a fan of art. The museum features exhibitions by local and international artists, showcasing Kenya’s contemporary and traditional art.

The museum is located in the city center and occupies the former provincial commissioner’s office, built-in 1913. The building is an attraction in itself, featuring ornately carved doors and wooden staircases.

5. Railway Museum

For anyone interested in the history of railway transport in East Africa, exploring the Railway Museum is a must-do. The museum features steam locomotives that date back to the 1920s, and you can even get on board some of the restored train carriages.

The Railway Museum also showcases railway uniforms, signaling equipment, and old photographs of the Kenyan railway network’s construction.

6. Nairobi National Archives

The Nairobi National Archives houses a wide range of archives, documents, and photographs that reflect Kenya’s history and culture. The archives’ core documents include colonial records that date back to the 19th century, including photographs of early Nairobi settlers.

The archives offer two-hour-guided tours to visitors, which takes you through the collection and history of the building.

7. Nairobi War Cemetery

If you’re interested in military history, Nairobi war cemetery is an excellent place to visit. The cemetery is the final resting place of over 1,100 Commonwealth servicemen who fought during the Second World War in Africa.

Most of the graves belong to members of the King’s African Rifles, the Black African soldiers who fought for the British during the war.

8. Visit the Maasai Markets

Though not technically museums, visiting one of Nairobi’s Maasai Markets is an excellent way to experience the authentic Kenyan culture and art. The markets usually take place at designated locations across the city every day of the week.

The markets offer a wide range of traditional African art, jewelry, and clothing, all at very affordable prices.

Conclusion

Nairobi has a rich history and culture reflected through its museums, art galleries, and cultural centers. With this guide, we hope you can make the most of your visit to Nairobi and learn more about the city’s cultural heritage.

Remember to research and plan in advance, as this will save you time and make your overall experience more enjoyable. And, as always, wear comfortable clothing and bring plenty of water to make the most out of your Nairobi museum voyage.