
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano
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The Museum of Illusions has officially opened its doors in Nairobi, further enriching the city’s cultural landscape.
Inaugurated on January 24 by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, the museum is part of a global franchise known for its interactive exhibits that blend art, science, and technology. This new establishment marks the first Museum of Illusions in East Africa and the third on the continent, following locations in Johannesburg and Cairo. Situated at Laxcon Court on Swaminarayan Road, the Museum of Illusions Nairobi joins over 50 other museums worldwide, scattered across 25 countries and four continents.
Its prime location near the National Museums of Kenya positions it to attract both residents and tourists, potentially becoming a significant cultural hub in the region. At the launch event, Cabinet Secretary Miano highlighted the museum's innovative appeal, stating, "The Museum of Illusions is an innovative fusion of art, science, and technology that inspires curiosity and wonder."
She emphasizes that the museum's exhibits, designed to challenge human perceptions and expand imagination, play a vital role in stimulating tourism.
Visitors to the museum can explore more than 60 exhibits organized into three main attractions: illusion rooms, installations, and images. The illusion rooms include experiences such as a tilted room where perceptions are skewed, a reversed room promoting a shift in perspective, and a vortex tunnel that induces a mind-bending experience.
The installations feature remarkable creations like a cloning table and a 'head on a platter,' designed to defy conventional logic. Additionally, the images section showcases captivating holograms and optical illusions that are sure to engage the senses. The museum operates daily, with visiting hours from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm on weekdays and extending to 9:00 pm from Thursday through Sunday.
Admission is priced to accommodate a wide audience, with adults charged Sh1,500, students Sh1,100, and children aged 4 to 12 years Sh900. A family package for two adults and two children is available for Sh3,900, and entry is free for infants and children under four. To streamline operations, the museum has adopted a cashless payment system, accepting mobile money and card transactions.
Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance on the museum's website, selecting from 20-minute time slots, as the average visit lasts approximately 45 minutes to one hour. Beyond its role as an entertainment venue, the Museum of Illusions Nairobi is designed to accommodate a range of corporate and private events, including team-building activities and birthday celebrations. This multifunctional aspect positions the museum not only as a tourist attraction but also as a centre for social engagement.