Each exhibit focuses on a different geographical region, including Southeast Asia, South Asia, West Asia and North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Though focused on the Dutch colonies, the museum also has displays on other countries, such as Japan. Key attractions include a collection of more than 150,000 photographs dating from 1855 to 1940; a theatrical exhibition featuring masks, puppets, and musical instruments from around the world; and Tropenmuseum Junior, a series of interactive exhibits and events—including dance, art, and cooking—aimed at children.
Tropenmuseum is a stop on hop-on hop-off bus sightseeing tours of Amsterdam, and several city sightseeing passes include free or discounted entrance. Some guided walking tours, such as those focused on the city’s multicultural population, visit the museum but do not go inside.