Museums & galleries
Museum of Natural History, Lima
About the Museum
Established in 1918 as part of the National University of San Marcos, this institution documents Peru's rich biodiversity. Visitors come to see extensive exhibits covering the country's native wildlife, plant species, and geological and paleontological specimens.
Getting There
Located in the Jesús María district, the venue is about 4 kilometers south of Lima's historic center. A taxi or rideshare takes roughly 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Public transit along nearby main avenues also provides direct connections.
Recommended Duration
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours to tour the permanent galleries comfortably.
When to Visit
Weekday mornings are typically the least crowded. Weekends and school field trip hours can be noticeably busier. As an indoor attraction, it is suitable to visit at any time of year.
Nearby Attractions
You can combine your stop with nearby points of interest:
- El Campo de Marte (1.1km): A large municipal park suitable for a stroll.
- Park of the Exhibition (1.8km): A landscaped urban park with walking paths.
- Lima Art Museum (1.9km): Situated by the Exhibition Park, housing Peruvian art collections.
- Basílica María Auxiliadora (1.9km): A historic church notable for its architecture.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors