Nairobi Gallery
Discover Kenya's rich artistic heritage at the Nairobi Gallery, showcasing historical artifacts and contemporary art in a century-old building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free entry for all!
Nairobi Gallery
Best Time
Free entry for all!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Kenya's rich artistic heritage at the Nairobi Gallery, showcasing historical artifacts and contemporary art in a century-old building.
"A must-visit for art lovers and history buffs, offering a deep dive into Kenyan culture."
🎯 Tuesday Free Entry
Visit on Tuesdays for free admission between 10 AM and 4 PM!
🎟️ E-citizen Ticket Purchase
Book your tickets conveniently through the e-citizen government portal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Murumbi African Heritage Collection
Nairobi Gallery
A stunning display of African art, textiles, and artifacts, preserving Kenya's cultural legacy.
Contemporary African Art
Nairobi Gallery
Explore vibrant paintings and sculptures by local artists, many available for purchase.
Historic Building
Nairobi Gallery
Housed in a century-old building, once known as 'Hatches, Matches & Dispatches'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Tickets & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Tuesday Free Entry
Visit on Tuesdays for free admission between 10 AM and 4 PM!
🎟️ E-citizen Ticket Purchase
Book your tickets conveniently through the e-citizen government portal.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Consider a guide for deeper insights into Kenyan history and art.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed, so capture the beautiful art and history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Tuesday Free Entry
Visit on Tuesdays for free admission between 10 AM and 4 PM!
🎟️ E-citizen Ticket Purchase
Book your tickets conveniently through the e-citizen government portal.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Consider a guide for deeper insights into Kenyan history and art.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed, so capture the beautiful art and history.
🛍️ Art for Sale
Many original art pieces are available for purchase at affordable prices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Nairobi Gallery for its rich collection of African heritage and contemporary art, housed within a historically significant building. The affordability of art for sale and the opportunity for free entry on Tuesdays are significant draws. Some visitors suggest the addition of more guides or audio explanations to enhance the learning experience for those less familiar with Kenyan history.
"I went there on World Tourism Day.It was free but usually you can book and pay through the govt portal(citizen)it is managed by Museum of Kenya.It is very accessible as it is next to the highway,and also since it’s one of the oldest buildings it’s also accessible for persons with disabilities.
It host the collection for African Heritage by Joseph Murumbi and an art gallery where you can view and also purchase the art.The prices are quite affordable considering these are original pieces.You will learn a lot about culture,art and history.
I think it’s important for them to assign guides or have an explanation audio especially for people who are not well conversant with the history of Kenya and African heritage"
eunice wanjohi
"The gallery is in town, tickets are bought on ecitizen. It is also a histotic site. Built in 1913 as a colonial office for recording births, marriages, and deaths, earning it the nickname "Hatches, Matches & Dispatches." Located at "Point Zero," the city’s central measuring point, it now serves as an art gallery and museum.
Inside, you’ll find Kenya’s rich cultural treasures, including the famous Murumbi African Heritage Collection, along with other artifacts and contemporary African art. The gallery beautifully preserves Kenya’s history while celebrating its vibrant culture today."
Naomi Kinyanjui
"We had a wonderfully interesting visit to see a variety of African art and learn quite a bit about Kenya's history. Having a guide made all the difference! He seemed yo be a graduate history of art student, as he was incredibly knowledgeable. He told us superb details about all the pieces of interest. Totally recommend this if you like history through art!"
J Attride-Stirling
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nairobi Gallery is conveniently located in the city center, easily accessible by road. It's situated near the highway, making it a straightforward destination.
Yes, the gallery is housed in an old building but has been made accessible for persons with disabilities.
The gallery is located at 'Point Zero,' the city's central measuring point, and is easily identifiable in the heart of Nairobi.
Given its central location, you can likely reach the gallery using various forms of public transport within Nairobi, though specific routes would depend on your starting point.
Information on dedicated parking is limited, but its central location suggests nearby public parking facilities might be available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is typically paid for via the e-citizen portal. However, the gallery offers free admission on Tuesdays from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Tickets can be purchased online through the government's e-citizen portal.
Yes, the Nairobi Gallery offers free entry every Tuesday between 10 AM and 4 PM.
The gallery is generally open during business hours, with specific timings for free entry on Tuesdays being 10 AM to 4 PM.
While booking through e-citizen is the standard procedure, it's advisable to check for any specific requirements, especially if visiting during peak times or special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Murumbi African Heritage Collection, contemporary African art, sculptures, textiles, and historical artifacts that showcase Kenya's rich culture and history.
Yes, the gallery features an art gallery where you can view and purchase original art pieces, often at affordable prices.
Photography is generally permitted inside the gallery, allowing you to capture the art and historical displays.
While not always a formal guided tour, knowledgeable staff or students are often available to answer questions and provide insights into the exhibits.
Visitors can spend several hours exploring the collections, as there is a significant amount of art and history to absorb. Some visits have lasted up to four hours.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Nairobi Gallery, allowing visitors to capture the diverse art and historical exhibits.
While generally permitted, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disturb them or damage delicate exhibits.
The vibrant contemporary art pieces and the historical architecture of the building itself offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid obstructing pathways or other visitors. It's best to inquire at the information desk if you plan to use one.
While no specific policies are mentioned, sharing your experiences on social media is encouraged, as seen in various TikTok and Instagram posts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While formal guided tours might be geared towards adults, the open layout allows families to explore at their own pace. The opportunity to see art that can be purchased might also be an exciting aspect for older children. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly events or exhibits that might be running during your visit.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
+1 Beyond this historical treasure, the gallery actively promotes contemporary African artists, presenting a dynamic range of modern works. A significant draw for collectors is the availability of original art for purchase. Many reviews mention that the prices are quite affordable, making it an excellent opportunity to acquire unique pieces directly from artists or through the gallery's curated selection.
🏛️ History Buffs
The Murumbi African Heritage Collection provides invaluable insights into the rich history and diverse cultures of Kenya and East Africa. The detailed explanations and artifacts offer a comprehensive understanding of the region's heritage. Visitors highly recommend engaging with knowledgeable staff or guides to fully grasp the historical context of the exhibits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Joseph Murumbi
+1This collection is more than just a display; it's a narrative of African identity, craftsmanship, and history. Visitors can expect to see intricate beadwork, traditional clothing, unique sculptures, and historical documents, each piece telling a story of its origin and cultural significance. The gallery's dedication to housing this collection highlights its role as a custodian of Kenya's artistic and cultural soul.
Exploring the Murumbi collection offers a profound connection to the diverse artistic expressions of Africa. It's an opportunity to learn about the continent's past while appreciating the enduring beauty and relevance of its cultural heritage in the modern world.
A Glimpse into Nairobi's Past and Present
Today, this historic structure beautifully fuses Nairobi's past with its vibrant present. It showcases the city's evolution, from its colonial origins to its status as a bustling modern metropolis. The juxtaposition of the old building with contemporary art installations creates a unique and engaging visitor experience.
This blend of historical architecture and modern artistic expression makes the Nairobi Gallery a compelling destination for those interested in understanding the multifaceted identity of Nairobi and Kenya. It’s a place where history is not just remembered but actively celebrated through art.
Experiencing Art and Culture
Many visitors highlight the opportunity to not only view but also purchase these original artworks, making the gallery a unique marketplace for local talent. The prices are often described as affordable, providing a chance to own a piece of Kenyan artistry.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of Kenyan culture and art, the gallery provides an immersive experience. The detailed explanations accompanying the exhibits and the availability of knowledgeable staff contribute to a rich learning environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit