East London Museum Travel Guide: Top Sights in South africa, Tours &

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East London Museum- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; South Africa; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 2 hours

The East London Museum, located in South Africa's Eastern Cape, is internationally recognized for housing the type specimen of the coelacanth—a prehistoric fish once thought extinct until its discovery in 1938 by Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer. Established in 1921, the museum has since developed into a multidisciplinary institution showcasing both natural and cultural history. Its extensive scientific collections include mammals, reptiles, birds, marine life, and significant fossil finds, such as Kannemeyria simocephalus and human trace fossils over 120,000 years old, offering insight into early Homo sapiens' coastal presence. Beyond its scientific exhibits, the museum holds one of the most comprehensive collections of Southern Nguni beadwork and traditional artifacts. The maritime gallery explores East London's naval past through ship models and salvaged relics, while Gately House—an affiliated Victorian-era residence—offers a look into colonial domestic life. Open on weekdays and weekends with modest entrance fees, the East London Museum continues to serve as both a cultural archive and an educational resource for understanding the region's diverse heritage.

Operators offering tours in South Africa

Attractions in East London

Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve

2.4

Nahoon Point Nature Reserve

3.8

Gonubie Nature Reserve

Reviews of East London Museum

Janine Jackson

5
Reviewed: 2025-05-28

I love going to the museum and taking my kids along. It is filled with the most spectacular variety of displays and intriguing detail and information on everything. Staff are wonderfully friendly, the museum is clean, just an all round wonderful experience.
JESUS THE ONLY WAY TO HEAVEN

5
Reviewed: 2025-01-01

Very nice educational place The atmosphere is great for family
GaryTheViking

4
Reviewed: 2024-10-11

Great experience. 30 rand per adult. We were reminded at 3:33 to "Make it quick. We close at 4" so we felt rushed. The lights were switched off already in the African history and Victorian Ages parts. I guess the workers wanted an early Weekend as it was a Friday. But we didn't let that 'dampen' our mood.
Noor-ain Ismail

5
Reviewed: 2024-06-29

I spent just over 2hrs here. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The display windows have so much detail. Every piece is brilliant. It's definitely worth a visit. I also loved that so many of the descriptions are original, old paper notes. The museum spans 2 floors. There's a lot to learn here. If you love history, this place will make your heart smile.
Brock Simon

5
Reviewed: 2024-02-25

A friend we are visiting in East London suggested this museum and it was a fascinating way to spend a few hours. The story of the once thought extinct coelacanth and the last known dodo egg is now incredibly interesting to see and hear about.