SGR Madaraka Express: Complete Guide 2026
Everything you need to know about the Nairobi–Mombasa SGR train: timetable, prices, how to book, and how it compares to bus and flight options.
Photo by Jusper Mwangi on Pexels
Timetable & Schedule
The SGR Madaraka Express runs three daily departures from Nairobi Terminus to Mombasa Terminus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes with stops at six intermediate stations.
| Station | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi Terminus | 08:00 | 14:00 | 20:40 |
| Athi River | 08:20 | 14:20 | 21:00 |
| Emali | 09:15 | 15:15 | 21:55 |
| Kibwezi | 09:45 | 15:45 | 22:25 |
| Mtito Andei | 10:20 | 16:20 | 23:00 |
| Voi | 11:20 | 17:20 | 00:00 |
| Mombasa Terminus | 13:30 | 19:30 | 02:10 |
Prices & Classes
- Standard seats with armrests
- Air conditioning
- Luggage rack + 20kg allowance
- Snack trolley service
- Wider leather seats with recline
- Power outlets at every seat
- WiFi access
- Complimentary meal service
- 30kg luggage allowance
How to Book Online
- 1
Visit metickets.krc.co.ke or dial *639# on your phone
- 2
Select your route (Nairobi → Mombasa), date, and class (Economy or First)
- 3
Choose your seat from the seat map
- 4
Pay via M-Pesa (most popular) or card payment
- 5
Receive your ticket via SMS and email — show it at the station
You can also book through BuuPass — they handle 98% of all SGR ticket sales.
But Is the SGR Your Best Option?
The SGR is great — but it's not always the cheapest or fastest. Here's how it compares:
Easy Coach, Tahmeed, Modern Coast, Mash Poa
Madaraka Express — 3 daily departures
Jambojet, Kenya Airways, Skyward Express
💡 The SGR saves you KES 2,000+ vs flying, but the bus can save you KES 500 vs the SGR. It depends on your budget and time.
See the full comparison
Photo by Enes Özbil on Pexels
Tips for Travelling on the SGR
- Book in advance during holidays — December and Easter fill up weeks ahead. Economy sells out first.
- Arrive 30 minutes before departure — Security screening takes time at Nairobi Terminus.
- Bring snacks — Food is available on board but limited and pricey. The trolley service in Economy is basic.
- First Class has power outlets — If you need to charge your phone, upgrade. Economy has no charging points.
- Window seats on the right — For the best views of Tsavo National Park, sit on the right side when departing Nairobi.
- Get to Mombasa Terminus by taxi or tuk-tuk — The terminus is in Miritini, about 20 minutes from the city centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the SGR from Nairobi to Mombasa?
The SGR Madaraka Express takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes from Nairobi Terminus to Mombasa Terminus.
Can I book SGR tickets with M-Pesa?
Yes. Dial *639# on your phone, follow the prompts to select your route, date, and class, then pay via M-Pesa. You will receive your ticket via SMS.
How much is SGR Economy class?
SGR Economy class costs KES 1,500 (approximately $12 USD) for the Nairobi to Mombasa route.
How much is SGR First Class?
SGR First Class costs KES 4,500 (approximately $35 USD). It includes wider seats, power outlets, and meal service.
Is there WiFi on the SGR?
WiFi is available in First Class compartments. Economy class does not have WiFi but mobile network coverage is available for most of the route.
What happens if I miss my SGR train?
SGR tickets are non-refundable. However, you may be able to rebook for a later departure at the station, subject to availability and a rebooking fee.
Is the SGR Madaraka Express safe?
Yes. The SGR is a modern Chinese-built railway with security screening at all stations, CCTV on board, and trained crew. It has carried over 10 million passengers since opening.
Can I bring luggage on the SGR?
Yes. Economy class allows up to 20kg of luggage, First Class allows 30kg. Oversized luggage can be stored in designated areas.
How do I book SGR tickets online?
Visit metickets.krc.co.ke, select your route and date, choose your class and seat, then pay via M-Pesa or card. You can also book through BuuPass (buupass.com) or via USSD by dialling *639#.
Is the SGR cheaper than flying?
Yes, significantly. SGR Economy costs KES 1,500 while the cheapest flights start from KES 3,500. However, the flight takes only 1 hour compared to 5.5 hours by train.
Compare all your options
See bus, train, and flight prices side by side for Nairobi to Mombasa.
Compare Nairobi → Mombasa