Museo de La Plata (Natural Sciences) Buenos Aires
A vast natural history museum in La Plata, showcasing dinosaurs, ancient mammals, and indigenous cultures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Museo de La Plata (Natural Sciences) Buenos Aires
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast natural history museum in La Plata, showcasing dinosaurs, ancient mammals, and indigenous cultures.
"Awesome museum! Cheap to enter and full of wonderful exhibits including fossils, animals, plants and rocks!"
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to explore, and be aware of closing times to avoid rushed exits.
📱 Use transport apps
Moovit or Omnilineas can help navigate bus routes and schedules for your trip to La Plata.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Skeletons
Paleontology Hall
Marvel at impressive dinosaur fossils, including impressive specimens that rival international museums.
Pleistocene Megafauna
Cenozoic Hall
Discover fossils of giant extinct mammals like Toxodon and Cuvieronius, offering a glimpse into ancient South America.
Indigenous Cultures
Anthropology Hall
Explore artifacts and exhibits showcasing the rich history and traditions of South America's indigenous peoples.
Geological Wonders
Geology Hall
Be captivated by a diverse collection of rocks and minerals, highlighting the region's geological diversity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to La Plata
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to explore, and be aware of closing times to avoid rushed exits.
📱 Use transport apps
Moovit or Omnilineas can help navigate bus routes and schedules for your trip to La Plata. +1
💰 Affordable entry
The museum offers great value with a low admission fee, making it an accessible cultural experience.
🗺️ Check bus routes
Look for 'Autopista' signs on buses like the 129 or 195 for the quickest journey. +1
Museum of Natural Sciences of Buenos Aires
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2 hours to explore, and be aware of closing times to avoid rushed exits.
📱 Use transport apps
Moovit or Omnilineas can help navigate bus routes and schedules for your trip to La Plata. +1
💰 Affordable entry
The museum offers great value with a low admission fee, making it an accessible cultural experience.
🗺️ Check bus routes
Look for 'Autopista' signs on buses like the 129 or 195 for the quickest journey. +1
🦖 Unlabeled specimens
Ask staff about unlabeled fossils; they might be Toxodon or Cuvieronius!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museo de La Plata for its impressive natural history collections, particularly the dinosaur fossils and ancient megafauna, all at a very affordable price. While the journey from Buenos Aires can be lengthy, most agree it's well worth the trip for the educational and engaging exhibits. Some minor issues include potential rush towards closing and occasional unlabeled specimens.
"The museum boasts a remarkable collection. While I intended to view all exhibits, the lights were unexpectedly extinguished, and we were asked to vacate the premises. They should be allowing visitors at least 15-20 minutes to complete their exploration once they have entered an exhibit area."
Levan Moseshvili
"Great natural history museum. Really enjoyed all of the dinosaurs and fossils. The geological exhibits were also very impressive."
Maria Fox
"Awesome museum! Cheap to enter and full of wonderful exhibits including fossils, animals, plants and rocks! Staff were friendly too! Would recommend visiting if you get the chance.
It's about an hour on the train from Buenos Aires so it can be a trek but its worth it."
Sian Harris (Geo)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have two main options: by bus or by train. The 129 (Autopista routes P, Q, R) or 195 buses are popular, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours and costing around 3,000 pesos. The train from Plaza Constitución to La Plata takes about 1 hour 20 minutes and costs approximately 450 pesos. Apps like Moovit can be very helpful for planning your journey. +2
For the fastest route, take buses like the 129 (specifically routes P, Q, or R) or the 195 that display 'AUTOPISTA' (highway) on their signs. These will get you to La Plata in about 1 to 1.5 hours. +1
Yes, the train from Plaza Constitución station is a reliable option. It takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and is generally more affordable than the bus, costing around 450 pesos.
Travel time to La Plata can vary. By bus using the highway (Autopista), it's typically around 1 to 1.5 hours. The train journey is usually about 1 hour and 20 minutes. +1
Bus fares are around 3,000 pesos, while train tickets are significantly cheaper at about 450 pesos. Prices can fluctuate, so it's good to check current rates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is known for being very affordable. In January 2022, the entrance fee was around 500 pesos, which was equivalent to about 2-4 US dollars.
While specific discount information isn't always readily available online, the museum is generally very inexpensive, making it accessible for most visitors.
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check the official museum website or local listings before your visit. Be aware that some visitors have reported being asked to leave exhibits shortly before closing.
Tickets are typically purchased at the museum upon arrival. Given the affordable entry fee, advance booking is usually not necessary.
Crowd levels can vary. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. Afternoons might see more school groups.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the impressive dinosaur skeletons in the paleontology hall, the fascinating fossils of Pleistocene megafauna like Toxodon, and the exhibits on indigenous South American cultures. The geological collection is also highly recommended.
The museum houses a significant collection of fossils, including dinosaurs, marine reptiles like Dunkleosteus and Mosasaurids, and extinct megafauna from the Cenozoic era.
Yes, the museum is very engaging for children, with impressive dinosaur skeletons and a wide variety of natural history exhibits. Educational visits are also common.
To fully appreciate the collections, it's recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours for your visit. Some visitors have found themselves rushed if they don't plan accordingly.
While many exhibits are well-labeled, some specimens might be unlabeled. Visitors have noted that unlabeled specimens could be Toxodon and (?) Cuvieronius.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits.
The towering dinosaur skeletons, the detailed dioramas of extinct animals, and the intricate artifacts from indigenous cultures offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
While general photography is usually permitted, avoid using flash in sensitive areas. Tripods or professional equipment might require special permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of a family visit, consider arriving earlier in the day to avoid larger crowds and potential fatigue. The museum's affordability also makes it a budget-friendly outing for families. While exploring, encourage kids to look for their favorite animals or prehistoric creatures, turning the visit into a fun scavenger hunt.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with affordable transportation options like the train from Buenos Aires, which is significantly cheaper than the bus. Packing your own snacks and water can also help keep costs down, as on-site food options might be limited or more expensive. The museum's rich exhibits provide hours of exploration, ensuring a fulfilling experience that doesn't break the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to La Plata: Bus vs. Train
Alternatively, the train from Plaza Constitución offers a more budget-friendly and often scenic route. This journey typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes and costs around 450 pesos. Travelers have found the train to be a reliable and comfortable way to reach La Plata. For real-time navigation and schedule updates, using apps like Moovit is highly recommended by visitors.
When choosing your mode of transport, consider the trade-off between cost and travel time. Both options are viable, and the 'best' choice often depends on your personal preferences and where you are starting from within Buenos Aires. Remember to factor in potential traffic delays, especially if opting for the bus during peak hours.
Exploring the Natural Sciences Collection
The museum also offers a deep dive into the region's biodiversity, with exhibits on extant animals and plants. The anthropology section provides valuable insights into the history and cultures of indigenous South American peoples, showcasing artifacts and displays that tell their stories. The geological collection further complements the natural history theme with a diverse array of rocks and minerals.
While the museum is generally well-organized, some visitors have noted that certain specimens might be unlabeled. It's worth inquiring with staff about these, as they could be significant finds. The overall experience is considered highly educational and visually engaging, making it a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in natural history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit