AfricaMuseum Tervuren
Explore Africa's rich cultures, biodiversity, and complex history within the grand Palace of the Colonies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
AfricaMuseum Tervuren
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Africa's rich cultures, biodiversity, and complex history within the grand Palace of the Colonies.
"A journey through Africa's heritage, housed in breathtaking architecture."
Free Entry with Museumpas
If you have a Museumpas, entry to the AfricaMuseum is free! Great value for exploring.
Kid-Friendly Spaces
The museum is buggy and wheelchair-friendly, with a picnic area. Perfect for families!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Royal Museum for Central Africa
Explore vast collections showcasing the cultures, biodiversity, and history of Africa. A journey through the continent's rich heritage.
The Palace of the Colonies
Admire the stunning architecture of this historic building, which houses the museum and offers a glimpse into Belgium's colonial past.
African Biodiversity Exhibits
Discover the diverse flora and fauna of Africa through impressive taxidermy and informative displays. A natural history wonderland.
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Colonial Past
Plan Your Visit Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry with Museumpas
If you have a Museumpas, entry to the AfricaMuseum is free! Great value for exploring.
Kid-Friendly Spaces
The museum is buggy and wheelchair-friendly, with a picnic area. Perfect for families!
Free Parking Available
Ample free parking is available across the street from the museum.
Consider the Tram Museum
Combine your visit with the nearby Tram Museum for a unique transport history experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry with Museumpas
If you have a Museumpas, entry to the AfricaMuseum is free! Great value for exploring.
Kid-Friendly Spaces
The museum is buggy and wheelchair-friendly, with a picnic area. Perfect for families!
Free Parking Available
Ample free parking is available across the street from the museum.
Consider the Tram Museum
Combine your visit with the nearby Tram Museum for a unique transport history experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the AfricaMuseum Tervuren for its impressive collections on African biodiversity and culture, housed within a stunning architectural setting. The museum's efforts to address its colonial past are noted, though some find the historical context challenging. The surrounding park and family-friendly amenities are also highlighted as positives.
"I have to give this a museum a 1 star as it very obviously does not address in any way the role that Belgium played in the Congo. Not one mention of the atrocities committed. No pictures or even reference to the horrors of what happened to the people under Belgian colonial rule.
The museum was renovated in 2018 and I find it unbelievable that there is no section at all on the violence and suffering of this Belgian colonial period. Shocking! For that reason I would say this is a poor museum. White washing the past. Not educating on the past."
Curtis Clough
"The Royal Museum for Central Africa in Tervuren enchants with its neo-classical grandeur and vivid displays of Central African natural history and art. Its honest exploration of colonial history, dynamic contemporary exhibitions, and tranquil arboretum make every visit both enlightening and serene."
Dan Mihailescu
"I was somewhat disappointed.
The entrance area did not make a positive first impression; it seemed rather new. The building and interior felt large, cold, and empty, and the overall area felt somewhat wasted. However, the museum itself was quite nice and interesting, which compensated for these shortcomings.
The museum was uncrowded, providing us more time to explore. The well-maintained park was a pleasant and relaxing place, with more young families with their dogs than museum-goers."
Ani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The AfricaMuseum Tervuren is accessible by car with free parking available across the street.
Yes, there is free parking available directly across from the museum entrance, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While not as direct as driving, you can reach the AfricaMuseum Tervuren via public transport, often involving a bus connection from Brussels. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes.
Absolutely! Many visitors find the AfricaMuseum Tervuren a worthwhile day trip from Brussels, offering a different perspective than the city center attractions.
For ease and convenience, driving is often recommended due to the free parking. However, public transport is also an option if you prefer not to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The AfricaMuseum Tervuren has varied opening hours. Generally, it's open from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and until 6 PM on weekends and holidays. Always check their official website for the most current AfricaMuseum Tervuren opening hours.
Standard admission is €12. However, entry is free for children and for anyone holding a Museumpas.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, is advisable to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Information on group or student discounts is best found on the official AfricaMuseum Tervuren website. The Museumpas offers a significant saving for frequent museum-goers.
Yes, children get free admission to the AfricaMuseum Tervuren.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore extensive collections on African ethnography, anthropology, biodiversity, and history. The museum also features impressive taxidermy and architectural highlights.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly, being wheelchair and buggy-proof, and offering a picnic area.
Guided tours may be available, often focusing on specific aspects of the museum's collections or history. It's best to check the museum's official schedule or inquire upon arrival.
Take your time to absorb the exhibits. Consider focusing on specific themes or areas that interest you most, as the collections are vast.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a bistro called Tembo on-site for dining, and a coffee corner for lighter refreshments.
The museum provides a picnic area, so you are welcome to bring your own food and enjoy it there.
Besides the museum's bistro, the town of Tervuren offers various local restaurants and cafes for dining options.
The bistro Tembo offers a range of options, and while it may not exclusively serve traditional Belgian fare, it provides a convenient dining experience within the museum.
It's recommended to check the current menu at Bistro Tembo for specific dietary options, as menus can change.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand architecture of the Palace of the Colonies, the impressive taxidermy displays, and the lush surrounding parkland offer excellent photo opportunities.
Tripod usage is typically restricted in museums to avoid obstructing other visitors and damaging exhibits. Always check the museum's specific photography guidelines.
Flash photography is generally not permitted inside the AfricaMuseum Tervuren to protect the artifacts and exhibits.
A versatile camera, perhaps a mirrorless or DSLR with a good all-around lens, would be suitable. However, even a smartphone can capture great shots, especially with good lighting.
Drone photography is almost certainly prohibited both inside and around the museum premises due to safety and privacy regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There's also a dedicated picnic area, so you can pack your own snacks and make a day of it. The biodiversity exhibits with taxidermy animals are often a hit with children, sparking their curiosity about the natural world. While the historical context of colonialism is complex, the museum strives to present information in an accessible way. Consider focusing on the natural history and cultural artifacts that are visually engaging for younger visitors. The vastness of the park outside also provides ample space for kids to run around and burn off energy.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the colonial history, delve into the museum's rich archives and research facilities, which are central to its academic mission. The biodiversity exhibits also provide a fascinating look at Africa's natural heritage. It's a place where you can spend hours absorbing detailed information and gaining a nuanced understanding of a significant historical period and its lasting impact.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
As a day trip from Brussels, it's easily manageable, especially with the convenient free parking.
Combine your visit with a walk in the surrounding park for a refreshing break. The museum's diverse collections, from natural history to cultural artifacts, ensure a stimulating and enriching solo experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Colonial Legacy
Understanding the context is key to appreciating the exhibits. Be prepared for displays that might be challenging but are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the museum's mission. The museum's commitment to re-evaluation means that the visitor experience is dynamic and evolving, encouraging dialogue and critical thinking about the legacy of colonialism.
Exploring the Biodiversity and Ethnography
Complementing the natural history exhibits are extensive collections on African ethnography and anthropology. These displays provide insights into the diverse cultures, traditions, and daily lives of various African peoples. From intricate art objects and tools to ceremonial artifacts, the museum offers a window into the vibrant cultural tapestry of the continent. The aim is to showcase the richness and complexity of African societies, moving beyond colonial stereotypes.
Architectural Grandeur and Surrounding Park
The museum's location also offers access to the beautiful Tervuren Park, a sprawling green space perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The park surrounding the museum provides a serene escape and complements the indoor exhibits. It's an ideal place to relax after exploring the museum's collections, offering picturesque views and a chance to connect with nature. The combination of impressive architecture and natural beauty makes the AfricaMuseum Tervuren a well-rounded destination.
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