National Earth Science Museum of Namibia 🇳🇦

If you are looking to explore Namibia's rich geological history, the National Earth Science Museum in Windhoek is an essential stop on your journey. Maintained by the State Geological Survey of Namibia under the Ministry of Mines and Energy, this facility holds the country's largest geological collection. Here, you will discover fascinating collections of meteorites, petrology, minerals, and ancient fossils built up over many years.

As you walk through the exhibits, you will see geological treasures gathered from famous mining areas, including the Rössing mine, the Navachab gold mine, the Rosh Pinah zinc mine, and the Tsumeb region. In the Tsumeb department, you can admire gemstones and 226 different minerals, 40 of which occur exclusively in this specific region. The museum uniquely pairs raw mineral materials with possible end products like ceramic items to show their real-world uses.

You can also view exploration photography from Namcor detailing oil and gas reserves like the Kudu gas field. Paleontology enthusiasts will marvel at fossils over 750 million years old, with the centerpiece being a Massospondylus fossil that is more than 200 million years old. It offers a wonderful, educational look into the hidden treasures beneath Namibia's landscape.

What to see at National Earth Science Museum of Namibia

• A Massospondylus fossil over 200 million years old
• Exhibits featuring 226 minerals from the Tsumeb region, including 40 unique species
• Raw mineral displays alongside finished end products like ceramic objects
• Fossils dating back more than 750 million years
• Oil and gas exploration photos from Namcor showcasing the Kudu gas field

Visiting tips

Take time to explore the Tsumeb department to see rare gemstones and 40 mineral species found nowhere else on Earth.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

National Earth Science Museum of Namibia is easy to reach on Windhoek’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Christ Church, Windhoek and Reiterdenkmal, Windhoek. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Windhoek travel guide.