A Fascinating Journey into Military History Last year, I had the privilege of visiting the South African National Museum of Military History, and it was truly an exceptional experience. This museum is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, offering a captivating collection of old and new military equipment, artifacts, and exhibits. As soon as I entered, I was immediately struck by the vast array of military equipment on display. From cannons and tanks to planes and helicopters, the museum showcases an impressive assortment of vehicles that span various eras. It was awe-inspiring to see these machines up close and gain a deeper appreciation for their historical significance. I couldn't resist capturing some incredible photos to preserve the memories. One of the highlights of the museum was the submarine exhibit. Stepping inside and exploring the confined spaces of a real submarine was both thrilling and enlightening. It provided a unique glimpse into the challenging conditions faced by submariners throughout history. The collection of military aircraft engines was equally fascinating. The museum has meticulously preserved these powerful engines, allowing visitors to marvel at their intricate designs and learn about their critical role in aviation history. In addition to the impressive machinery, the museum houses an extensive display of weapons, including old guns and machine guns. It was captivating to observe the evolution of these firearms and understand the technological advancements that shaped military tactics over time. The museum also boasts a remarkable collection of uniforms, showcasing the diverse attire worn by soldiers from different eras and regions. This comprehensive display offered a glimpse into the lives of those who served their countries with honor and bravery. I am thrilled to share some of the captivating moments I captured during my visit. Please find attached some of the photos I took, which I hope will convey the grandeur and historical significance of this remarkable museum. Visiting the South African National Museum of Military History was an enriching and thought-provoking experience. I highly recommend it to history buffs, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of our nation's military heritage. It's an extraordinary place that truly brings history to life.Thank you to the dedicated staff and curators who maintain this invaluable museum and make it accessible to the public. Rating: Exhibits: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Preservation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Education: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Overall Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Enjoy your visit to the South African National Museum of Military History and be sure to immerse yourself in the rich history it has to offer! Best regards, Krutik Patel
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

Ok I am biased giving the Museum a 5/5 rating. I worked at the Museum for 39 years as a curator and loved every minute. Seldom did I feel like I was working, I was mostly at play. I was responsible for the armour, small arms, ammunition and accoutrements and conservation / restoration departments. There is a lot more work in presenting a good Museum to the public than what meets the eye. Rules, regulations and procedures have to be followed which sometimes stunt creativity. If I was to be ultra critical of the Museum, I would say the major fault is not having a chronological sequence of the displays. However to re- arrange the displays and exhibits into a chronological sequence would be a massive task. For many years we had a dedicated team who went above and beyond the job specification but later we were restricted by less flexible systems. These did however, improve the collection management aspects. The lack of a cafe is also a problem on which many people comment. This function was taken over by our head office.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

With it's own stop on the Green sightseeing bus route, this is well worth a visit. Just allow enough time to see everything, we were there for three hours and barely scratched the surface of some displays. Everything is beautifully presented and accessible to visitors. The exhibits cover a vast area, easily absorbing visitors, giving the feeling that you have the place to yourself. The museum has a huge collection of artefacts, addressing all aspects of the military experience from the early nineteenth century to the present day. Although it primarily focusses on conflict in southern Africa and South African involvement in the World Wars, its but far more rounded than my description suggests. In addition to its impressive collection of hardware, uniforms, biographies, the museum has a large collection of smaller (everyday) military items. Equally as interesting, you'd struggle to find such a comprehensive collection of such objects elsewhere. Possibly the best military museum I've been to.

Collection is great. Such a nice place to see part of history and learn. For kids to observe. But Organisation: -Main gate guard had a mask on neck! When as a Dr, I advised him, he got upset! And wanted to take my temperature. So I had to insist .... -There was only one hand sanitizer that was on entrance door but not working! Then nothing in different halls! -No guide to ask questions! They can put big signs of the Year for the machinery to organize some structure for visitors to understand better. Does museum have a Curator?!? I still don’t understand why a Buffalo head in a military museum! It didn’t have any sign! -Many information signs were either too dusty or not readable! And no tap around to wash! -No visitor notebook to write comments! Photo attached here. -Rubbish even inside some of machines! Photo attached here. -Some visitors weren’t having mask too! I feel sad. Increase the ticket fee and keep this National heritage in a better shape!

This has to be one of the most underrated places in Johannesburg. The military museum is amazing for all kids including those pesky teens. I can add that if you pack a small picnic basket you can enjoy the lush green and turn it into a great day out. It’s not a big place and it will take about an hour max to see it all. I do advice that you hire a tour guide to spark curiosity and interest. South Africans pay a special rate and it’s super affordable from about R45 an adult and school children and children are R30. If you having a staycation or looking for an educational trip for kids, this is a perfect outing. There is no coffee shop inside so pack snacks and juice for the kids.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It's a very relaxed and calm environment, the exhibit captures the history very well. There is a fairly wide range of things to see with halls allocated to specific things or periods of history. The only thing that I must mention is there does not seem to be a place to grab a bite or coffee so I'd recommend planning around that. The actual items on display are in good shape and good quality, personally I loved that amount of war time aircraft but there's a bit of everything to be fair.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Having last visited a few decades ago when it felt a bit "cramped", I was very surprised and impressed when we visited this beautiful place on Saturday. As I'm a SADF veteran, I believe the displays and exhibits are well balanced and capture the history very well. I love the feeling of space in the outside area too. Hats off to those who are keeping our rich military history alive. If I was to suggest a few additions, I miss the Buffel and the SAMIL series of trucks. And regarding visitors' overall experiences at the property, perhaps a coffee shop and a curio shop?

Great bit of South African history. A well balanced representation of all wars / struggles that clearly seened to have plagued our country. Almost too much information but well worth the visit. The staff are friendly and helpful, with lectures taking place when you move around between the different exhibits. Good to see that all history is represented, no matter what the political orientation is and was. Would be nice to see, is a similar museum on nation building, as we have definitely ticked all the boxes when it comes to having spilt South African blood!!!

It is an awesome place if you are interested in War and History. We went without a tour guide which was fine for us because its not the dirat time we have been there. There is alot of things to look through so we weren't able to see everything. There isn't a lot of interactive things to do so after 2 hours we became restless and a bit bored. Overall the experience was nice and the place is well kept.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Walking into this museum reminded me of the old war movies I watched growing up. The original war relics, machine guns, war planes and miniature war ships all arrayed and perfectly preserved from wars like the world war I and II, Anglo-dutch rivalry, Xhosa wars, Mfecane, Battles between Voortrekkers and Zulus to mention but just a few. Photography is allowed in some places and the fare that gets you in is very affordable. Its a museum worth visiting.

Went there for great experience with 2 primary school children. With loadshedding the halls were closed and we had to turn around. Very disappointing. At least I could take a few pictures through the fence. On the website (that I checked before our long travel there ) there was no mention that loadshedding would result in the halls being closed.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I was a Service Provider at the Hall / Venue that is hired out at the Museum. It is an absolutely lovely venue to host an intimate get together. Well manicured lawns and the kids would love access to all the planes and tanks on-site. The hall caters for up to 300 guests. Clean bathrooms as well as a kitchen area to sort out your catering.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

This museum is the best I have seen so far. The South African National Museum of Military History is an enriching journey through the country's military past. This captivating museum offers a diverse collection of artifacts, weaponry, and exhibits that provide valuable insights into South Africa's military history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the nation's military heritage.

Bit chaotic but excellent exhibition pieces, great selection of 20th century objects incl. Tanks and a number of airplanes If you're mostly there to look around and get some info on the objects presented without needing a clear story line I can highly recommend it. Admission was R80 for an international adult (R50 for SA adults)
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Tucked away next to the Zoo is an extensive & well kept collection of military vehicles, subs, planes, armoured cars and more…that could very easily rival the collections of other internationally renowned military museums. The halls are well organised and the information boards are comprehensive and interesting.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Unforgettable experience. The prices are R30 per child and R40 adults, no discounts for schools but it's worth it, A lovely man named Hamish explained us everything, with his all pacience to deal with kids, he was just great. He has a big knowledge of wars, he answered all the kids questions and more. We walked all together through that huge Museum and we learned a lot. Thanks, Mr. Amish!!!!!

I was there about 14 years ago, took my two young boys on Sunday, we all enjoyed it, great experience for all. I had forgotten the scale and size if the planes and other military vehicles. All displays were wonderfully laid out and perfectly displayed. Reception staff were pleasant and welcoming.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

very informative with all the writings. although a guided tour would be great. a refreshing corner for coffee and light meals would be wonderful. it'll take half-day to a full day to properly visit all departments, but just remember to save some energy as there is no restaurant on this property
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The collection here is a lot bigger than I expected. There is also a great mix of South African military vehicles and paraphernalia as well as German and British war collections from the First and Second World Wars. Descriptions are detailed and a lot of care had gone I to curating the exhibions. Definitely a must-do at least once for any local. The tanks were my favorite!

Well worth a visit and great value at R40. The exhibits are kept in good condition and complete with informative descriptions. Large static displays are mainly tanks/armoured vehicles, fixed wing aircraft and field artillary. It tries to represent all side of the South African history story, which adds a narrative you will not find in many museums, particularly abroad.

This museum has a very impressive collection of military equipment, weapons, and history. I learned much that Was new to me and would highly recommend a few hours to visit and walk through the exhibits. In fact, it may take a couple of visits because there is so much to take in!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Really appreciated the amount of history. A vast amount of militaria portrayed from across many nations and the exhibitions are fantastic! Unbelievable collection of military machinery from across the world! Highly recommend! Pitty though that no pictures are allowed inside the buildings where most of the historic militaria are exhibited :(

I was incredibly impressed with this museum. There are countless exhibitions ranging from small arms to heavy artillery and tanks. Among the aircraft exhibited is a beautiful Spitfire as well as a stunning example of a Rolls Royce Merlin engine. Everything is clean and perfectly maintained. This place is well worth it's entrance fee.

Suitable for those who are interested in history, war, vehicles used in war, planes, helicopters. Good for kids. There is an open area where kids can run. There are a lot of benches outside. Taxi drop and pick up is possible in this area.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Broad collection of military equipment and some military history. Some of the displays appear to be lacking items that were perhaps once there, and lack of lighting inside made seeing / reading some of the displays difficult.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Very good experience. The exhibitions are in great shape. The way the halls are also laid out allows for one to chronologically explore the military history. The tanks and the fighter aircrafts are even more impressive in real life. Definitely a museum to go to with the family, or even by yourself like I did.

This is a great mueseum, that houses most of the weapons used by both sides in WW1 and WW2. It also contains weapons from ancient and recent conflicts. It provides a visual display of the evolution of warfare over the ages.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Well worth a visit. Memorial for all Saffers who fought for their country and a huge range of military vehicles and aircraft, including a lot of German machinery, which you don't see much of in Europe. Included first ww2 jet powered fighter bomber, so fast the allies had to attack it on takeoff or landing.

As an adult, I definitely appreciated the history this museum has managed to preserve, took some lovely photos, please note that they do not allow photography inside the halls. I wouldn't recommend taking children here, unless of course the aim is a history lesson, otherwise they wouldn't have fun.

Was a great experience learning about the army and war and how they faught for our country.I would lovr to see like maybe a website of some sort or someway That we can view the prices and packages please
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

Unfortunately ,nothing in Cape Town to match , so fantastic opportunity to see everything I see in movies and read about in the flesh , along with more modern equipment. WW 1 and WW2 equipment in particular.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Lots of military hardware and information placards. Clean, well cared for. Very friendly staff. I couldn't see anything past 1992 and they have extensive exhibits about World war 2. Lots of reading.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

What an informative place to visit. I love the fact that it is not guided and one can roam and explore as you wish. The absolute strength of the equipment at the Military museum is mind blowing. Very well kept and indeed a must for those delving into history and perhaps the future.

This is an absolutely amazing museum. The exhibits seem well looked after and you can get up close and really look at things. The variety of exhibits is really rich. The famous ME262 is essentially a world heritage aircraft and I can't believe one sits here quietly in South Africa.

My son loved it but he got little scared at times he could feel the ghost. He thinking alot about something someone say. That is why but overall he loved it and would like to go back.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
No

Interesting and informative exhibits. Friendly and polite staff. Well maintained and clean. We were pleasantly surprised. Had visitors from the US and it made us proud. Pity no coffee shop.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

During the week, outside holidays a quiet place to be. Big collection (armored vehicles, tanks, planes, weapons and uniforms) with lots of information. It was great to be there!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I enjoyed my visit there and I loved all the tanks and planes the most. They didn't only have SA military information and artifacts but other countries as well which was cool.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I was very impressed with the museum. Everything was clean and in very good condition. The war memorabilia were very impressive and all of the equipment was wonderful to see.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Unnecessarily brilliant. They have tanks and a f*#£@#g Messerschmitt Me 262, quite possibly the coolest flying death machine ever conceived. #simp #Abitdusty #J.W.is.a.ginger
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great place to learn South Africa military involvement throughout the decades with an decent collection of vehicles used by the South African Military
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great exhibitions, wide variety of tanks and aircraft. Well maintained, a good family outing. Unfortunately no coffee available. Tanks a lot. :)
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Best museum in Joburg in my opinion. Beautifully curated exhibits with friendly staff, peaceful and spacious grounds make me want to stay all day.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Interesting museum with lots of airplanes and tanks. Lots of other artefacts to keep you busy. You'll probably want to visit multiple times.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I was pleasantly surprised, the grounds were nearly kept and the staff were very friendly. They have some great displays from traditional weapons to cannons, tanks and aircraft. Well worth the price and very informative

Quite a lot to see. R50 for adults. They need to fix all the broken lights in some of the rooms though as some areas are too dark.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Wonderful experience. Got to know about the history. Covers all aspects of military like Army, Navy and Airforce.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

The kids loved all the military displays and equipment. Well maintained and safe area to visit (next to Jhb Zoo)
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Vehicles including planes and memorabilia from the wars. Equipment includes much from America and Europe. Russia too!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Much better than expected. Very well done to all the volunteers Somewhere to buy a drink would have been lovely
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Great war museum with plenty of rare exhibits. On par with the best European museums of military history.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Lovely experience and perfect for a day visit. The museum is well maintained and kept very clean and neat.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Loved this trip! The museum is neat and well kept. Such interesting memorabilia and artifacts on display. It's an amazing experience to see the planes, tanks and torpedo's up close!

Awesome place to visit with the family. Kids really enjoyed checking out the planes and tanks.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Awesome collection of military hardware to view. I especially loved the WW2 planes.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A place to visit if you like history or are interested in antiques. All the artifacts are well preserved and are in good condition. Must visit for kids to learn about history.

It has so much to offer for history lovers. Loadshedding is the enemy of good things
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Nice place to learn the history of the Sourh African Military & conflicts.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

It a nice picnic spot and lots of historical knowledge to learn
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It was an amazing outing with the family! My once a year fix to see the collectors, look at the new war museum displays and have fun.

Very educational. An amazing variety on display. Staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. A moving and educational experience.

It's the Arms fair today. Lotsa fun!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Always love a day out at a museum, does feel like some of the areas need to be spruced up, but a great morning was had!

Nice and quiet. Amazing museum with tankers and plains. Everything was so nice and clean, and the gardens pristine.

A good archive of SA military history including WW1 and WW2. The extent of detail is incredible. A lot to learn.

Lot of history you can find at this place.wish to visit with my entire family
Visited on
Weekday

Great museum with many different displays. Takes a couple of hours to look around

This has been the best museum I've visited. I will definitely visit again soon.

Very cool day out with the kids. Very informative and not busy at all.

It was amazing. Been there a few times and it never disappoints.