Iziko South African Museum & Planetarium Cape Town
Explore 700 million years of natural and cultural history, from dinosaurs to the cosmos, at this iconic Cape Town museum and planetarium.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Iziko South African Museum & Planetarium Cape Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 700 million years of natural and cultural history, from dinosaurs to the cosmos, at this iconic Cape Town museum and planetarium.
"A fantastic indoor activity, highly recommended for families and anyone interested in history and science."
🎟️ Book Planetarium Ahead
Planetarium shows have limited seating. Book tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot!
🚶 Explore Company's Garden
The museum is nestled in the beautiful Company's Garden. Take a stroll before or after your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Immersive celestial journeys on a high-definition screen. Explore the cosmos and learn about stars and planets.

Fossil & Dinosaur Exhibits
Natural History Galleries
Journey through millions of years with impressive fossil displays and dinosaur skeletons.

Whale Skeletons
Marine Life Gallery
Marvel at the sheer size of majestic whale skeletons, showcasing marine giants.

Indigenous Rock Art
Cultural History Galleries
Discover ancient San rock art, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Planning Your Visit
Planetarium Show Tickets
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Planetarium Ahead
Planetarium shows have limited seating. Book tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot!
🚶 Explore Company's Garden
The museum is nestled in the beautiful Company's Garden. Take a stroll before or after your visit.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 2-3 hours here. Don't rush through the vast collections!
💰 Great Value for Money
Admission is very affordable, especially for South African citizens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Planetarium Ahead
Planetarium shows have limited seating. Book tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot!
🚶 Explore Company's Garden
The museum is nestled in the beautiful Company's Garden. Take a stroll before or after your visit.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can easily spend 2-3 hours here. Don't rush through the vast collections!
💰 Great Value for Money
Admission is very affordable, especially for South African citizens.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
A fantastic indoor activity for families. Kids will love the diverse exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Iziko South African Museum for its extensive and well-maintained exhibits, offering great value for money. The Planetarium is a highlight, providing captivating celestial shows. While the museum is highly recommended for families and anyone interested in history and science, some reviewers noted that the bathrooms could use an upgrade.
"Went on International Museum Day (A Sunday). Pleasantly surprised at how beautiful the maintenance and upkeep has been. New exhibitions to explore and more coming. Spent just over 2 hours leisurely strolling through the museum. Darwin section was also fascinating. Pity there is no coffee shop or restaurant in the museum. Bathrooms need an upgrade."
Rhoda Davids
"Very good experienced. Was welcomed by friendly staff. The displays are very well maintained and so much information to read. Highly recommend visiting.
The bathrooms near the entrance, however, could use some attention"
Megan Pons
"Went to the museum & opted for a show at the planetarium.
The exhibits were of great quality and my son enjoyed them immensely. Book in advance for the planetarium as the space is limited. Be on time."
TA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the heart of Cape Town's CBD, within the Company's Garden. You can reach it by car, taxi, or public transport. If driving, consider parking options nearby.
Parking can be found along Queen Victoria Street, which is often free on Sundays. There's also museum parking available, and car guards are usually present. Payment might be by card on Saturdays.
Yes, various MyCiTi bus routes serve the city center, making it accessible via public transport. Check the MyCiTi schedule for routes and stops near the Company's Garden.
It's a bit of a walk, approximately 30-40 minutes. You could also take a MyCiTi bus or a taxi from the V&A Waterfront to the city center.
The museum is a prominent landmark within the Company's Garden, making it relatively easy to find. Follow signs for the Company's Garden or ask locals for directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, especially for South African citizens. Prices are typically around R40 for adults and R20 for children, students, and pensioners. Check the official website for current pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book Planetarium show tickets in advance as seating is limited and shows can sell out.
Often, a ticket for a Planetarium show includes free entry to the Iziko South African Museum, offering excellent value for a combined experience.
Opening hours can vary, but the museum is typically open daily. Planetarium show times are specific and should be checked when booking tickets. Always verify current hours on the official Iziko Museums website.
Discounts are usually available for children, students, and pensioners. International Museum Day often features free entry, so keep an eye out for special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum boasts diverse exhibits including fossils, dinosaur skeletons, marine life (like whale skeletons), indigenous rock art, and cultural artifacts. The Planetarium offers immersive shows.
Most visitors spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the extensive collections. You could easily spend longer if you plan to see a Planetarium show as well.
Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly with engaging exhibits that children will find fascinating. The Planetarium shows are also a hit with younger visitors.
While not always advertised, inquire at the information desk about any available guided tours or educational programs.
Consider picking a subject that interests you and delve deep into it, or casually browse through the various galleries. The museum is large, so pace yourself.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there is no coffee shop or restaurant within the museum itself. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
The museum is located in the CBD, surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries along streets like Long Street and Bree Street.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best practice to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or outside the museum to preserve the exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas of the museum, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. Always check for signage.
The large dinosaur skeletons, whale skeletons, and the immersive Planetarium dome offer great photo opportunities. The surrounding Company's Garden is also picturesque.
Photography is usually not allowed during Planetarium shows to avoid disturbing other viewers and for technical reasons related to the projection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
Many parents recommend it as a great value for money, with affordable entry fees. The museum's layout is spacious, allowing kids to move around comfortably. Consider planning your visit around a Planetarium show and allow ample time to explore the various galleries without feeling rushed. The interactive elements and visually stimulating displays ensure that even the youngest visitors remain captivated.
💰 Budget Travelers
Parking can also be managed on a budget, with free street parking available on Sundays along Queen Victoria Street. By packing your own snacks or planning to eat at more affordable eateries in the CBD, you can keep your overall expenses low while enjoying a rich cultural and scientific experience. It's a highly recommended activity for those looking to explore Cape Town without breaking the bank.
🏛️ History & Science Enthusiasts
With detailed exhibits and informative displays, you can spend hours delving into the rich tapestry of South Africa's past and the universe. The museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing these collections makes it an invaluable resource for in-depth learning and discovery. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the unique geological and anthropological treasures housed here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wonders of the Planetarium
Travelers rave about the quality of the shows, with some highlighting the educational aspect and the beautiful displays created by talented South African minds. The immersive nature of the dome makes you feel like you're truly traveling through space. It's a perfect indoor activity, especially on days with unpredictable Cape Town weather. Remember to arrive on time for your show to fully enjoy the experience without interruption.
For those new to planetariums, picking a show that aligns with your interests is key. Some visitors suggest trying a show about something you didn't know about, ensuring a learning experience. The Planetarium is attached to the natural history museum, allowing for a seamless transition between celestial exploration and earthly wonders.
Exploring Natural and Cultural History
Visitors often express surprise at the sheer volume and variety of artifacts on display, noting that it's easy to spend several hours engrossed in the exhibits. The museum is well-maintained, with a good balance of modern and older displays. It's a fantastic educational resource for all ages, making it a must-visit for families and anyone interested in South African heritage. The Darwin section, in particular, has been noted as fascinating.
To make the most of your visit, consider focusing on specific areas of interest. The museum's layout allows for a leisurely exploration, and many find it to be a great value for money, especially considering the depth of information presented. Remember to check for any temporary exhibitions that might be on display during your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit