Kon-Tiki Museum
The Kon-Tiki Museum houses the original vessels and artifacts from Thor Heyerdahl's legendary expeditions across the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. See the famous Kon-Tiki balsa wood raft that proved ancient peoples could have made long ocean voyages, plus the Ra II papyrus reed boat and underwater exhibits.
Museum Highlights
The Original Kon-Tiki Raft
The actual balsa wood raft Thor Heyerdahl and his crew sailed 8,000 km across the Pacific Ocean in 1947 to prove pre-Columbian peoples could have reached Polynesia from South America.
Ra II Reed Boat
Ancient Egyptian-style papyrus reed boat that successfully sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in 1970, demonstrating ancient maritime capabilities.
Easter Island Exhibits
Extensive collection from Heyerdahl's Easter Island expeditions, including moai statue replicas and archaeological findings.
Underwater Cave Exhibition
Immersive 30-meter underwater tunnel with marine life exhibits and a 16-foot whale shark replica.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
- • Summer (June-Aug): 09:30-18:00 daily
- • Sept-May: 10:00-17:00 daily
- • Note: Open daily year-round
Admission Prices
- Adults 150 NOK
- Students / Seniors 100 NOK
- Children (6-15) 60 NOK
- Children under 6 Free
- Oslo Pass FREE
Location & Getting There
Address: Bygdøynesveien 36, 0286 Oslo (Bygdøy Peninsula)
Ferry B from Rådhusbrygge 3 (City Hall pier) to Bygdøy. Runs March-October. 10-minute ride.
Bus 30 from city center to Bygdøynes. Year-round service.
The Kon-Tiki Expedition
In 1947, Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl and five crew members embarked on one of the 20th century's most famous expeditions. They built a balsa wood raft using only materials and techniques available to ancient South American peoples, naming it Kon-Tiki after the Inca sun god.
The crew sailed 8,000 kilometers from Peru to Polynesia in 101 days, proving that pre-Columbian peoples could have made such voyages. The expedition captured worldwide attention and Heyerdahl's documentary won an Academy Award in 1951.
Key Expedition Facts
- Date: April 28 - August 7, 1947
- Distance: 8,000 km (4,300 nautical miles)
- Duration: 101 days
- Crew: 6 men (5 Norwegians, 1 Swede)
- Raft: 9 balsa wood logs, bamboo cabin, 1,300 sq ft
Nearby Museums on Bygdøy
Bygdøy Peninsula is Oslo's museum district. Combine your visit with other world-class museums within walking distance:
Fram Museum →
World's strongest wooden polar expedition ship. Right next to Kon-Tiki - perfect combination!
Walking distance (2 minutes)
Norwegian Maritime Museum →
Norway's maritime history from Vikings to modern times. Boat hall and coastal culture exhibits.
5-minute walk
Viking Ship Museum →
Best-preserved Viking ships in the world. Essential Oslo museum visit.
10-minute walk
Norwegian Folk Museum →
Open-air museum with 160 historic buildings including 13th-century stave church.
15-minute walk
Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00-12:00) are quietest. Summers get busy with cruise ship groups - visit early.
How Long to Spend
Allow 1.5-2 hours. Perfect to combine with Fram Museum (right next door) for a half-day visit.
Family-Friendly
Excellent for kids - interactive exhibits, underwater tunnel, and adventure story appeal to all ages.
Museum Shop
Excellent shop with books, expedition memorabilia, and unique Norwegian gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kon-Tiki raft the original?
Yes! You're seeing the actual raft that crossed the Pacific Ocean in 1947. It's remarkably well-preserved.
How long does it take to see the museum?
Most visitors spend 1.5-2 hours. The museum is compact but filled with fascinating exhibits and information.
Can I visit multiple Bygdøy museums in one day?
Absolutely! Kon-Tiki and Fram are right next to each other - you can easily visit both in 3-4 hours. Add Viking Ship Museum for a full museum day.
Is it accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible with elevators. The underwater tunnel is fully accessible.