National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History (MNAAHP), Lima - The Egyptian Museum in Cairo
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National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History (MNAAHP) Lima

4.5
·4k reviews·Pueblo Libre, Peru

Discover Peru's rich past at this historic museum, showcasing ancient artifacts and colonial charm, even amidst renovations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better focus

CrowdLow
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National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History (MNAAHP), Lima - The Egyptian Museum in Cairo

National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History (MNAAHP) Lima

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better focus

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Peru's rich past at this historic museum, showcasing ancient artifacts and colonial charm, even amidst renovations.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A worthy visit for history lovers, offering free entry to significant Peruvian artifacts."

Vertical photo
TIP

Start at the Casona Entrance

Begin your visit at the second entrance for the Casona, which houses most accessible exhibits. :world_map:

Embrace the Spanish

Most texts are in Spanish. Use a translation app or enjoy the challenge of deciphering exhibits. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Estela Raimondi

Estela Raimondi

Main building

See one of Peru's most important and well-preserved monoliths, a key piece of ancient Andean culture.

Textile Collection

Textile Collection

Renovated sections

Marvel at some of the best-preserved ancient textiles, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors.

Colonial Mansion

Colonial Mansion

Casona entrance

Explore a beautifully preserved colonial mansion with original floors and a charming garden.

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Planning Your Visit

Renovations & Access

The museum is undergoing significant renovations, with many areas potentially closed. Check current accessibility before your visit. Some exhibits may be temporary or not previously displayed. Reddit

Language & Navigation

While admission is often free, most signage is in Spanish. English audio guides are not available. Consider a translation app or a guided tour for a richer experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better focus
Crowd
Low
When
During special exhibitions
Why
See unique, rarely displayed pieces
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What can you do in Mexico City 🏙️🇲🇽#traveltiktok #travel #Mexicocity #TourinMexico
@baboo.travel
173.6K likes • 2.1M views

Start at the Casona Entrance

Begin your visit at the second entrance for the Casona, which houses most accessible exhibits. :world_map:

Embrace the Spanish

Most texts are in Spanish. Use a translation app or enjoy the challenge of deciphering exhibits. :iphone:

Loved checking out 📍 El Museo Nacional de Antropología - so cool to see our history #CDMX #MexicoCity #Museum
@jessicaalba
70.8K likes • 1.2M views
reddit.com

4 days in Lima for first time visitor

Free Admission

Enjoy free entry, making it a great budget-friendly option for history lovers. :moneywithwings:

Combine with Larco Museum

Visit this museum first, then the Larco Museum for a deeper appreciation of Peruvian history. :museum:

reddit.com

First time visitor to Lima and Peru, looking for recommendations

Tips

from all over the internet

Start at the Casona Entrance

Begin your visit at the second entrance for the Casona, which houses most accessible exhibits. :world_map:

Embrace the Spanish

Most texts are in Spanish. Use a translation app or enjoy the challenge of deciphering exhibits. :iphone:

Free Admission

Enjoy free entry, making it a great budget-friendly option for history lovers. :moneywithwings:

Combine with Larco Museum

Visit this museum first, then the Larco Museum for a deeper appreciation of Peruvian history. :museum:

Nearby Breweries

Relax at traditional breweries like Queirolo Tabern after your visit for food and drinks. :beer:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the museum a worthwhile experience, especially for its free admission and significant historical artifacts like the Estela Raimondi and textile collection. However, ongoing renovations mean many areas are inaccessible, and a lack of English signage can be challenging. Reddit

"A lot of the museum is under renovation- but it was still worth the trip. We learned so much about Peru and how it won its independence.

The staff was very friendly but not many English speakers and the Spanish I practiced for did not help here. But still, not big issues.

Beautiful building as well."

Karl Whinnery

"Good show case in archeology history of Peru and Inca culture. Free admission is a plus. If have time see this one first, then go see the laco museum. You will much be appreciated."

Hengyi Tu

"The museum is definitely still being remodeled and lots of areas are not available. It was free for English speakers because very little signage in English. No English audio guide was available. There are some QR codes and English translations in the second building. Some interesting exhibits to see but challenging without translation or audio guide. Go if you are good with just walking around and looking at exhibits or feel like translating lots on your phone."

Tim Hodgden

What People Like

Free admission
Significant historical artifacts
Beautiful colonial mansion

What People Dislike

Ongoing renovations
Limited English signage
Lack of audio guides

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. Public transport options are available but can be more complex. It's located in the Pueblo Libre district. Reddit

Limited parking may be available, but it's often easier to use ride-sharing services or taxis, especially given potential renovation disruptions. Reddit

Taking a taxi or a ride-sharing app from Miraflores is the most convenient option, typically taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Reddit

While direct stops might be limited, you can often reach the Pueblo Libre district via bus and then take a short walk or a local taxi to the museum. Reddit

Due to ongoing renovations, accessibility can vary. It's best to contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information on accessible areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is often free, especially for English speakers due to limited translations. However, it's always good to confirm current pricing upon arrival. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required, especially with free admission. However, for special exhibitions or guided tours, it's advisable to check. Reddit

Opening hours can vary due to renovations. It's recommended to check the museum's official website or social media for the most current information. Reddit

Yes, Mexican citizens often get free admission on Sundays, as noted in some social media posts about similar museums in Mexico City, though this specific museum is in Lima. TikTok

While admission is often free, inquire about any potential discounts for specific groups if applicable, though free entry is common. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Estela Raimondi monolith, the well-preserved textile collection, and the beautiful colonial mansion. Reddit

No, English audio guides are typically not available. Visitors may need to rely on translation apps or printed materials. Reddit

Allow at least 2-3 hours, especially if you plan to explore the accessible sections thoroughly and use translation tools. Reddit

While official English tours might be limited, you might find independent guides or can arrange a private tour. Inquire at the information desk. Reddit

Significant renovations are ongoing, meaning many areas may be closed. Temporary exhibits featuring rarely seen items are sometimes displayed. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain areas. Check for signage. Reddit

Some sensitive exhibits, like delicate textiles or artifacts, might have restrictions on photography. Always be respectful of museum rules. Reddit

The colonial mansion's architecture, the courtyard garden, and the grand monoliths offer excellent photographic opportunities. Reddit

Yes, phone cameras are generally permitted for personal photos, but avoid intrusive use. Reddit

Drone photography is strictly prohibited inside and around museum premises. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the museum's focus on archaeology and history might seem dense for younger visitors, the well-preserved colonial mansion and garden can offer a more engaging visual experience. Reddit The sheer scale of artifacts like the Estela Raimondi can also capture a child's imagination. Reddit Given the potential for limited English signage and ongoing renovations, consider bringing interactive elements like a scavenger hunt for specific symbols or colors within the accessible exhibits. Reddit A translation app can also be a fun tool for kids to 'decode' exhibit information. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History of Peru is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as admission is often free. Reddit This allows you to immerse yourself in Peruvian history without a significant cost. Reddit To maximize your visit without spending extra on guides, utilize free translation apps on your phone to understand the exhibits. Reddit The museum's location in Pueblo Libre also means you can explore local, more affordable eateries nearby after your visit. Reddit

🤓 History Buffs & Researchers

For those deeply interested in Peruvian history and archaeology, this museum is a treasure trove, even with its current renovation phase. The Estela Raimondi and the textile collection are of immense academic importance. Reddit Researchers might find the temporary exhibitions particularly valuable, as they often showcase items not usually on display. Reddit Be prepared to spend time deciphering Spanish texts or arrange for specialized research access if needed. Reddit Visiting this museum first, as suggested by some, can provide a foundational understanding before exploring other sites like the Larco Museum. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Renovations

The National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History of Peru (MNAAHP) is currently undergoing extensive renovations, with a projected reopening in 2027-28. Reddit This means that while the museum is partially accessible, many of its permanent galleries may be closed. However, this period has also led to the display of rarely seen artifacts and temporary exhibitions that showcase pieces not even typically available to the public. Reddit Visitors should be prepared for a potentially limited experience in terms of sheer volume of exhibits, but the quality of what is on display can be exceptional. Reddit

It's crucial to verify the current status of accessible areas before your visit. The museum's main entrance leads to fewer exhibits currently, while a secondary entrance to the 'Casona' offers access to a greater number of displayed items, including significant historical pieces. Reddit This phased approach to renovation means that while some of Peru's most important archaeological and historical treasures are temporarily unavailable, the museum is working to present its collection in new and exciting ways during this transitional phase. Reddit

Navigating Language Barriers

A common point of feedback for visitors is the prevalence of Spanish-language signage and exhibit descriptions. Reddit While this is typical for many cultural institutions in non-English speaking countries, it can present a challenge for those who do not speak Spanish. English audio guides are not currently offered, and the availability of English translations can be sporadic. Reddit

To enhance your experience, consider downloading a reliable translation app on your smartphone before your visit. Reddit Many visitors find that using their phone's camera to translate text in real-time significantly improves their understanding of the exhibits. Reddit Alternatively, if you are interested in a more in-depth understanding, you might consider hiring a private guide who can provide commentary in English, or joining a small group tour if available. Reddit Embracing this linguistic aspect can also be seen as part of the authentic travel experience, offering a chance to practice basic Spanish phrases. Reddit

Key Artifacts and Collections

Despite ongoing renovations, the MNAAHP houses some of Peru's most significant historical and archaeological treasures. The Estela Raimondi is a monumental stone carving, a key piece of the Chavín culture, and a must-see for understanding early Andean civilizations. Reddit The museum also boasts an impressive collection of textiles, some of the best-preserved in the world, showcasing the advanced weaving techniques of ancient Peruvian cultures. Reddit

Visitors can also explore a beautifully maintained colonial mansion, complete with original floors and a charming garden, offering a glimpse into Peru's Spanish colonial past. Reddit While many areas are under renovation, the museum has been known to exhibit rarely seen pieces during this time, offering a unique opportunity to view artifacts not typically on public display. Reddit These temporary displays, alongside the permanent highlights, make the museum a valuable stop for anyone interested in Peruvian history and archaeology. Reddit

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