
Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle Saint-Denis
Discover Indian Ocean biodiversity and a 'living fossil' in a grand neoclassical building, with free entry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle Saint-Denis
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Indian Ocean biodiversity and a 'living fossil' in a grand neoclassical building, with free entry.
"Interesting museum, was happy I visited. Everything looks so natural. Must visit."

🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the museum's exhibits without any cost. A great budget-friendly option for exploring natural history.
🗣️ Brush up on French
Most displays are in French. Knowing the language enhances the learning experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Coelacanth Specimen
Exhibition Hall
Marvel at the preserved coelacanth, a 'living fossil' that sparks wonder and curiosity.

Indian Ocean Collections
Various Galleries
Explore diverse flora and fauna unique to the Indian Ocean region, showcasing its rich biodiversity.

Neoclassical Architecture
Building Exterior and Interior
Admire the grand neoclassical building that houses the museum, adding historical charm to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Polish Your French!
A Quick but Rewarding Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the museum's exhibits without any cost. A great budget-friendly option for exploring natural history.
🗣️ Brush up on French
Most displays are in French. Knowing the language enhances the learning experience.
⏱️ Quick Exploration
Perfect for a short visit, plan for about 30-60 minutes to see everything.
📍 Located in Botanical Garden
The museum is situated within the beautiful Jardin de l'État, making it a two-in-one visit.
TOURISTS AND TEMPORARY RESIDENTS, ASK YOUR QUESTIONS IN THIS WEEKLY THREAD: Open Forum -- 20, February, 2022
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the museum's exhibits without any cost. A great budget-friendly option for exploring natural history.
🗣️ Brush up on French
Most displays are in French. Knowing the language enhances the learning experience.
⏱️ Quick Exploration
Perfect for a short visit, plan for about 30-60 minutes to see everything.
📍 Located in Botanical Garden
The museum is situated within the beautiful Jardin de l'État, making it a two-in-one visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle Saint-Denis to be an interesting and worthwhile stop, especially given its free admission. The preserved coelacanth and the diverse Indian Ocean collections are frequently highlighted as fascinating exhibits. However, the museum's small size and the lack of English translations for exhibits are noted drawbacks for some.
"Interesting museum. Was happy I visited. Everything look so naturally. Must visit."
Vojkan Dimitrijevic
"The price was right and cool to see a coelacanth."
Steven Wray
"Very small but interesting museum.
Polish your French before coming here: though as nothing is displayed in English."
Cristian Viorel Pirnea
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Saint-Denis, Réunion Island. It's situated within the Jardin de l'État. You can reach Saint-Denis by local buses or taxis. If you're driving, there might be parking available nearby, but it's best to check local conditions.
Yes, Saint-Denis is served by a network of local buses. You can take a bus to the city center and then it's a short walk to the Jardin de l'État where the museum is located.
For exploring Saint-Denis, walking is a good option for central areas like the Jardin de l'État. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available if you prefer a more direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum offers free admission, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
As admission is free, booking tickets in advance is generally not required. You can usually walk in during opening hours.
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official museum website or local listings before your visit. Typically, museums are open during daytime hours on weekdays and sometimes weekends.
Yes, the museum's exhibits, especially the natural history displays, can be very engaging for children. The free entry also makes it a great family-friendly option.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that a visit to this museum takes around 30 minutes to an hour, as it's a relatively small but interesting collection.
Unfortunately, the exhibits are primarily displayed in French. Visitors who don't speak French might find it helpful to use a translation app or have a basic understanding of the language.
Key attractions include the preserved coelacanth, diverse collections of flora and fauna from the Indian Ocean, and the museum's impressive neoclassical architecture.
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check for signage at the entrance or ask museum staff if photography is permitted, especially without flash.
Yes, the museum is housed within the historic Jardin de l'État, a beautiful botanical garden, offering a pleasant surrounding for your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand neoclassical building itself offers excellent exterior shots. Inside, the coelacanth specimen and the detailed displays of local wildlife are popular subjects. The surrounding Jardin de l'État also provides beautiful photographic backdrops.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's common for museums to restrict flash photography to protect exhibits. Always look for signs or ask staff for clarification.
Visitors often capture close-ups of the natural history specimens, architectural details of the building, and the lush greenery of the adjacent botanical garden.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exhibits are primarily in French, the visual nature of the displays can still be engaging for younger visitors. Consider bringing a small phrasebook or using a translation app to help explain key concepts. The combination of educational exhibits and outdoor exploration makes for a well-rounded and enjoyable family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Since the museum is relatively small, it won't consume a large portion of your day or budget. It's an excellent way to soak in some local history and natural science without spending a euro, leaving more funds for other experiences on Réunion Island.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Jardin de l'État
Created in 1761 and developed from 1767, the garden has been home to the Museum of Natural History of Réunion since 1855. It's a place where history, nature, and science converge. The garden itself is a living museum, showcasing a variety of species, some of which are endemic to the region. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll before or after exploring the museum's exhibits.
Many visitors find the combination of the museum and the garden to be a delightful experience. It provides a well-rounded glimpse into the natural and historical heritage of Réunion Island, all within a single, accessible location. The serene environment of the garden makes it a perfect place to reflect on the natural wonders displayed in the museum.
The Coelacanth: A Living Fossil
The coelacanth's presence in the museum offers a tangible connection to prehistoric life. Its unique physical characteristics and evolutionary history make it a focal point for understanding the deep past of marine life. Seeing this creature up close provides a profound sense of wonder and highlights the incredible diversity of life that has existed on Earth.
For visitors, the coelacanth serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing discoveries in natural history and the importance of preserving these unique species and their habitats. It's a highlight that many reviewers mention as a reason to visit, making it a must-see during your time at the museum.






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