The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) has unveiled a new pricing structure for entry into museums and heritage sites across the country, marking a significant shift in how visitors will access some of Kenya’s most iconic cultural landmarks.
In a public notice issued on April 7, NMK confirmed that the revised charges will take effect from May 7, 2026, in line with updated regulations under the National Museums and Heritage framework.
New pricing targets citizens, residents and international visitors
Under the new structure, entry fees will vary depending on citizenship and location. At the Nairobi National Museum and Snake Park, Kenyan and East African adult visitors will pay KSh350, while children will be charged KSh200. Visitors from other African countries will pay $9 for adults and $6 for children, while international tourists from outside Africa will pay $18 for adults and $9 for children.
At the Nairobi Gallery, Kenyan adults will pay KSh300, with children paying KSh200. Foreign visitors will be charged $14 for adults and $7 for children.
The revised fees also apply to major heritage sites such as the Karen Blixen Museum and Fort Jesus, where Kenyan adults will now pay KSh550, while children will pay KSh300. Visitors from outside Africa will be charged up to $18 for adults.
Lower-cost sites remain accessible to the public
For smaller heritage sites, including Lamu Fort, Lamu Museum, and other cultural landmarks, entry will remain relatively affordable. Kenyan adults will pay KSh200, while children will pay KSh100, with modest increases for foreign visitors.
Meanwhile, sites such as Tambach, Kakapel, Pate, Nyeri, Shimoni, Songhor, Fort Ternan and Siyu Fort will charge KSh100 for adults and KSh50 for children, maintaining accessibility for local tourism.
NMK also noted that entry fees for Hyrax Hill and Rabai will remain unchanged for now.
Temporary closure dates announced
In addition to the new pricing, NMK announced temporary closures for the Karen Blixen Museum. The facility will be closed on April 11 and May 1, 2026, before resuming normal operations.
“The museum will remain open and operational on all other days,” NMK stated, adding that the temporary closure is part of scheduled adjustments.
Balancing revenue and cultural access
The revised fees come as NMK seeks to balance revenue generation with the preservation and promotion of Kenya’s cultural heritage. The changes are expected to support maintenance, conservation efforts, and improved visitor experiences across museums and historical sites.
Tourism stakeholders say the adjustments reflect broader efforts to modernize the heritage sector while ensuring sustainability, especially as Kenya positions itself as a key cultural and tourism destination in the region.
