Attraction
Nairobi National Park
Kenya's first national park, created in 1946, where lions, black rhinos and giraffes roam open grassland within sight of the Nairobi skyline.
Nairobi Railway Museum
Museum beside Nairobi railway station telling the story of the line that created the city, with steam locomotives, coaches and historic photographs.
At a glance
- Type
- Railway museum
- Area
- Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Good to know
- Locomotive yard
- Passenger coaches
- Photographic displays
- Miniature railway
Why we recommend it
Nairobi exists because of the railway. The city began as a supply depot on the line from Mombasa to Lake Victoria at the end of the nineteenth century, and the Nairobi Railway Museum, next to the main railway station, tells that story. The collection comes from the old East African Railways, which once ran trains across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. The museum opened in 1971 under the East African Railways and Harbours Corporation and is now operated by Kenya Railways, which keeps a rail connection so exhibits can still be moved in and out.
The highlight is the yard of locomotives outside. Among the engines on display are 87 Karamoja, a large articulated Garratt, and 5505, another Garratt from the GB class, alongside smaller tank engines and members of the Tribal, Mountain and Governor classes. Tanganyika Railway 301 has a cinema connection, having appeared in the 1985 film Out of Africa. You can walk between the engines, and early diesel locomotives and passenger coaches are also part of the collection.
Indoors, photographs trace the building of the line and a picture history of early Nairobi, alongside artefacts from the railway's early years of operation. A petrol-powered miniature railway was added in 2011. Three operational steam engines are kept under cover in the main railway works rather than at the museum, and these can only be seen by appointment.
This is a museum for rail enthusiasts, history lovers and families with children who like big machines. Allow an hour to an hour and a half. Bring sun protection, as much of the collection is outdoors, and wear shoes you do not mind getting dusty, as you should expect uneven ground around the tracks and between the engines. Opening hours are not published on an official website, so check locally before making a special trip.
The museum is on Station Road at the southern edge of the central business district, a short ride from the city centre hotels. The area around the station is busy with matatus, so many visitors take a taxi or ride-hailing car directly to the gate. Combine it with KICC, the Kenya National Archives and Jamia Mosque for a half day exploring the historic centre.
Nairobi Railway Museum FAQs
When did the museum open?
In 1971, under the East African Railways and Harbours Corporation. It is now run by Kenya Railways.
What is the highlight?
The outdoor yard of steam locomotives, including the Garratt engines 87 Karamoja and 5505.
Is there a link to Out of Africa?
Yes. Tanganyika Railway locomotive 301, which appeared in the 1985 film, is part of the collection.
How long should I allow?
About an hour to an hour and a half.
Can I see working steam engines?
Three operational steam engines are stored in the main railway works and can only be seen by appointment.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, especially for children who enjoy trains. Much of the collection is outdoors, so bring sun protection.
Where is it?
On Station Road, next to Nairobi railway station at the southern edge of the central business district.
What is nearby?
KICC, the Kenya National Archives and Jamia Mosque are all in the city centre.