The Nairobi to Mombasa intercounty train leaves Nairobi at 8:00 am in the morning. When travelling to Mombasa on this morning train, it is advisable to arrive at the Syokimau train station by 7:00 am to allow for smooth checking. The check-in process takes about 30 minutes, but it may take longer depending on the queue when you arrive. The intercounty train is the most adventurous for travelers who would like to enjoy the beautiful scenery on their way to Mombasa, including the elephants of Tsavo National Park. The morning train makes multiple stops at Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Voi, Miasenyi, and Mariakani. Therefore, this is the best train for travellers who need intermediate station access, particularly those visiting Tsavo National Park or Amboseli National Park. The morning train from Nairobi arrives in Mombasa at 2:00 pm.
This train leaves Nairobi at 3:00 pm and arrives in Mombasa at 8:00 pm in the night. It makes very few stopovers, mainly at Mutito Adei, Emali, and Mariakani. This train is ideal for travelers who want to use the SGR in the afternoon and arrive at the hotel during dinner. If you have some morning runs which you need to complete before travelling or you leave far from the station and would not want to sleep over in Nairobi, this this the best train option to book.
This is the last train that leaves Nairobi by 10:00 pm and arrives in Mombasa at 3:30 am. This train is for travelers who would like to travel overnight. If you have a very early morning meeting in Mombasa or an early check-in offered by your hotel, I recommend this train. You travel while sleeping and wake up at your holiday destination. The train seats are comfortable, but for extra comfort and convenience, if you want to take a nap at the SGR, the newly introduced SGR Premium coaches are the most ideal.
These coaches were introduced at the SGR to offer travelers extra comfort. Initially, the SGR had two types of coaches, the economy coaches and the first class coaches. The economy coaches offer less personal space, unlike first class, which offers a bit more space. They have adequate leg room and seat space to allow you to sleep or stretch comfortably. The seats in the premium SGR coaches are designed for optimal luxury and comfort. They are, however, more expensive than the first class seats, with a one-way ticket going for KS 12000. But the experience is worth paying for.
|
Train |
Typical Departure (Nairobi) |
Typical Arrival (Mombasa) |
Journey time (approx.) |
Classes / Fare (KES) |
|
Inter-County (day) |
08:00 |
14:00 |
6 hours |
Economy KS 1,500; First KS 4,500 |
|
Express (day) |
15:00 |
20:08 |
5–5.5 hours |
Economy KS 1,500; First KS 4,500 |
|
Night Train (overnight) |
22:00 |
03:35 (next day) |
5h 30m |
Economy KS 1,500; First KS 4,500 |
For visitors traveling to the Kenyan coast, the Madaraka Express is cheaper and more convenient. You can travel with any of the trains and then get transferred by road to your hotel in Mombasa, Diani, Malindi, or Watamu. Olanka Safaris offers affordable Mombasa holiday packages using SGR. The holiday packages include return SGR tickets, hotel transfers, accommodation, and excursions during your stay at the coast. You can book your safari with Olanka Safaris for the best Kenyan coastal experience
Get a taste of nature
