The Museum Of Illusions Opens In Nairobi

Last Friday marked an exciting addition to Nairobi’s cultural and entertainment landscape with the grand opening of the Museum of Illusions. 

Situated in Parklands at the Laxoncourt Plaza, the museum offers a unique blend of education and entertainment, inviting visitors to experience a world where nothing is quite as it seems.  

Speaking at the official launch of the museum, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the exhibition would kindle the joy of curiosity.

“The Museum of Illusions has exhibits that challenge human perceptions, expand imagination, and kindle the joy of curiosity and wonder,” she said. “This new type of museum is gaining popularity in every jurisdiction it has been set up in because of its ability to fuse art, science and technology into fascinating and indelible sensations and images.”

What is the Museum of Illusions?

The Museum of Illusions is a global franchise known for its innovative and interactive exhibits that challenge perceptions and awaken curiosity. First established in 2015 in Zagreb, Croatia, the museum has rapidly expanded, with locations in over 40 cities worldwide, including New York, Dubai, and Paris.

It caters to all age groups, providing an engaging space where science, mathematics, psychology, and art converge to create mesmerizing illusions.  

The Nairobi branch is the latest addition to this global phenomenon, and it promises to be a major attraction for locals and tourists alike. 

“The Museum of Illusions Nairobi Chapter, the first in the East African Region, and third after Johannesburg and Cairo,” CS Miano said. “My experience marvelled me pointedly on seeing how the laws of physics, perception and cognition fuse seamlessly and test and surprise the mind.”

Mission to educate

The Museum of Illusions is more than just a fun day out—its mission, according to the website, is to spark curiosity and make learning a delightful experience. Through its exhibits, the museum aims to educate visitors about the science of optical illusions, human perception, and cognitive psychology. 

Agreeing with the museum’s objective, CS Miano said it was a challenge to the senses.

“It’s a haven of edutainment and a perfect place for visitors to engage with illusions that challenge their senses and cause them to ponder over humanity’s understanding of the world and how things work,” she said.

Adding that it was a plus for Kenya’s tourism industry.

“This is one of the most exciting diversified tourism product in the Kenya’s history thus far.”

President William Ruto also lauded the initiative calling the exhibition “a must-visit attraction.”

“Hon. Rebecca Miano’s launch of the Museum of Illusions at Laxcon Court Plaza, Parklands, marks a milestone in diversifying tourism products in Nairobi. A fusion of art, tech, and creativity awaits visitors in this must-visit attraction,” he said.

Ticket prices and visitor information  

Visitors can purchase tickets at the museum or online. Prices are as follows:  

– Adults: Ksh 1,500  

– Children (ages 4–12): Ksh 900

–  Students: KSh. 1100

– Family Package (2 adults and 2 children): Ksh 3,900  

NB: The museum uses a cashless system only accepting card or Mpesa payments.

The museum is open on Monday to Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM and on Thursday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.