National Museum of Natural History, Havana

National Museum of Natural History, Havana

The National Museum of Natural History of Cuba (Museo Nacional de Historia Natural Cubana), situated in the vibrant Old Havana, delves deep into Cuba's unique flora and fauna through its extensive collections and thoughtfully curated exhibitions, emphasizing the importance of conserving the island's natural treasures.

Upon entering the ground floor, visitors are greeted by the "The Earth and Life" (La Tierra y La Vida) exhibition, which offers a fascinating journey through the paleontological evolution of our planet. This section showcases a variety of fossils, informative murals, and detailed schemes, with a standout display being the skull of a Tyrannosaurus. Additionally, this level features a zoological exhibition that provides insights into the reptiles, birds, and mammals indigenous to the Caribbean, enhancing visitors' understanding of the region's biodiversity.

The museum's upper floor expands the narrative to include Caribbean vertebrates, invertebrates, and mammals, alongside an impressive collection of rocks and semi-precious stones. Highlights include a petrified tree, aged millions of years, and an assortment of marine fossils that narrate the geological and biological history of Cuban waters.

A special feature of the museum is the Colibrí room, tailored specifically for children. This space hosts various exhibitions and educational activities, offering a blend of learning and fun, making the museum an ideal destination for families visiting Cuba. Through its comprehensive and interactive exhibits, the National Museum of Natural History of Cuba not only educates its visitors about the natural world but also instills a sense of responsibility toward environmental conservation.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Havana. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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National Museum of Natural History on Map

Sight Name: National Museum of Natural History
Sight Location: Havana, Cuba (See walking tours in Havana)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery

Walking Tours in Havana, Cuba

Create Your Own Walk in Havana

Create Your Own Walk in Havana

Creating your own self-guided walk in Havana is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Churches and Cathedrals Walking Tour

Historical Churches and Cathedrals Walking Tour

Discovered and conquered by Spanish colonists in the early 16th century, Havana has turned into a major religious center of Catholicism in the Caribbean. Although a communist regime is currently in power, many of the churches, cathedrals, and other religious buildings have been preserved and still give a glimpse of the city’s religious heritage.

The old Havana Cathedral, located in a...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Old Palaces Walking Tour

Old Palaces Walking Tour

Havana has been the seat of Cuba’s ruling gentry for centuries. Today, you can walk the streets of Old Havana and explore its palaces to get a glimpse into the city’s royal past. Although these structures now serve Havana’s citizens and visitors, they still catch your eye (and your camera lens!) with their architecture and history.

Start your trip with the ornate Presidential Palace,...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Hemingway's Havana Walking Tour

Hemingway's Havana Walking Tour

Ever since Hemingway first visited Cuba in 1928 until his death in 1961, he felt an intense connection with the people and culture of Cuba. Hemingway lived at Hotel Ambos Mundos during the 1930s, and began, wrote, and finished several novels there. Today, you can see some of Hemingway's belongings in Room 511.

Hemingway was a frequent patron at El Floridita, famous for its daiquiris....  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.1 Km or 0.7 Miles
Old Town Walking Tour

Old Town Walking Tour

The Spanish founded Havana in 1519. After French pirate Jacques de Sores ransacked the city in 1555, the Castle of the Royal Force was built to protect the city.

Havana became a major stopping point between the newly discovered Americas and ancient Europe. In the 1600s, Havana was a major shipbuilding port.

Old Havana is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic city has five...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles

Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip


Cuban Sweets and Pastries

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18 Uniquely Cuban Things to Buy in Havana

18 Uniquely Cuban Things to Buy in Havana

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