Butterfly Pavilion at Haller Park – Kenya’s First Butterfly House

Butterfly Pavilion at Haller Park – A Colourful Mombasa Wildlife Experience

Step inside the Butterfly Pavilion at Haller Park and be surrounded by a living kaleidoscope of color. This lush, enclosed garden is home to dozens of native butterfly species, each playing a vital role in pollination and ecosystem health.

As Kenya’s first butterfly house, the pavilion is a favourite for school groups, photographers, and eco-tourists who want to connect with nature in a peaceful, educational setting.

Why Butterflies Matter

Butterflies are more than just beautiful insects, they are important pollinators, helping plants reproduce and ensuring biodiversity thrives. Their presence in an ecosystem is a sign of environmental health.

The Butterfly Pavilion at Haller Park supports conservation by:

  • Breeding and releasing butterflies into restored forest habitats
  • Educating visitors about butterfly life cycles and threats
  • Preserving nectar-rich plants for year-round feeding
 

Learn More: Discover the role of butterflies in ecosystems on National Geographic.

What You’ll See in the Pavilion

  • Native species: Including African Monarchs, Swallowtails, and Citrus Swallowtails
  • Breeding stations: See caterpillars, chrysalides, and emerging butterflies up close
  • Floral paradise: Host plants for larvae and nectar plants for adults
    Guided tours: Learn from our knowledgeable staff about each stage of the butterfly’s life

The pavilion is designed to be an immersive experience, with winding paths, tropical plants, and gentle lighting to keep both butterflies and visitors comfortable.

Best Time to Visit the Butterfly Pavilion

  • Morning (9:00–11:00 AM): Butterflies are most active as temperatures rise.
  • Dry Season: More flowers in bloom mean more butterflies to see.
  • Sunny Days: Brighter light helps bring out the vivid wing patterns in photos.
  • Morning (9:00–11:00 AM): Butterflies are most active as temperatures rise.
  • Dry Season: More flowers in bloom mean more butterflies to see.
  • Sunny Days: Brighter light helps bring out the vivid wing patterns in photos.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Move slowly and quietly to avoid startling the butterflies.
  • Wear bright or floral clothing — butterflies may land on you!
  • Use macro settings on your camera for detailed close-ups.
  • Avoid touching wings — the scales are delicate and easily damaged.

Educational Value for Schools & Groups

The pavilion is a living classroom for biology and environmental science. School visits include:

  • Guided tours tailored for different age groups
  • Interactive Q&A sessions with conservation staff
  • Take-home educational materials
 

Teachers can pre-book educational packages via the Visit Haller Park page.

Plan Your Visit to the Butterfly Pavilion

  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm daily

  • 📍 Location: Bamburi, Mombasa

  • 🎫 Entry Info: View tickets and packages

  • 🗺️ Map & Directions: Bamburi, Off Mombasa-Malindi Road

FAQs – Butterfly Pavilion

Yes, photography is encouraged — just avoid flash to protect the butterflies.

Other Attractions

From towering giraffes to tiny butterflies, Haller Park is a living sanctuary where animals, plants, and people coexist in harmony. This page introduces you to our main attractions—each with its own unique story and role in conservation.
Giraffe Feeding at Haller Park

Giraffe Feeding Experience

Hand-feed Rothschild giraffes from our raised viewing platform. A safe, interactive way to learn about these gentle giants.

Bird Watching Haller Park

Forest Trails & Birdwatching

Enjoy peaceful walks through restored forest habitats. Look out for monkeys, antelopes, and over 160 bird species.

Crocodile enclosure at Haller Park Mombasa

Reptile Enclosure

Home to Nile crocodiles, giant tortoises, and other reptiles, our enclosure is a must-see for wildlife lovers.