The Kon-Tiki Museum
About
The Kon‑Tiki Museum in Oslo tells the epic story of Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl and his daring voyages across the world's oceans. At its heart lies the original 1947 balsa wood raft, Kon‑Tiki, from which Heyerdahl sailed from Peru to Polynesia, followed by the reed‑boat Ra II that crossed the Atlantic. The museum’s galleries are thoughtfully arranged to guide visitors through the design, preparation, and execution of these historic expeditions, offering a deep dive into maritime history and human ingenuity. Beyond the iconic rafts, the museum houses a fascinating under‑raft exhibit featuring a whale‑shark model and a series of paintings that depict the life at sea. The nautical displays extend to comprehensive exhibitions on Easter Island, complete with a replica of a family cave and related artifacts, giving insight into the island’s culture and heritage. The library wing, containing over 8,000 books, further enriches the narrative with scholarly material and personal accounts from Heyerdahl’s original team. Daily film showings of the award‑winning 1951 documentary bring the story to life, and the museum’s gift shop offers a wide range of souvenirs and special editions. Visitors can enjoy the spacious, modern building designed by Platou and Torgersen, which also serves as a cultural hub for maritime heritage. A typical visit takes about two hours, allowing ample time to explore the interactive displays and reflect on the spirit of adventure that defines the Kon‑Tiki legacy.
Highlights
- Kon‑Tiki Raft
- Ra II Reed Boat
- Under‑raft Whale Shark Model
- Easter Island Exhibit
- Cinema Screening
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At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours