Nairobi to Mombasa in 6 hours - through two national parks
Air-conditioned rail travel that cuts a 10-hour drive to under 6, passing directly through Tsavo East and West along the way.
Wildlife, without leaving your seat
The elevated track cuts straight through Tsavo East and West, giving you a commanding view over the savannah - elephants, giraffes and occasionally big cats are all visible from the window.
Combine a road safari through the Mara, Amboseli or Tsavo with the train for the final leg to the coast - a smooth way to end an itinerary without a long final drive.
Add the SGR train to my safariNairobi to Mombasa - Express Service
Two express departures daily, skipping local stops. An Intercounty service also runs with stops at Emali, Mtito Andei and Voi.
| Departs Nairobi | Voi (Tsavo East) | Arrives Mombasa |
|---|---|---|
| 3:00pm (Afternoon) | 6:48pm | 8:30pm |
| 10:00pm (Night) | - | 3:35am |
Intercounty service departs Nairobi 8:00am, calling at Emali (near Amboseli), Mtito Andei (Tsavo West) and Voi (Tsavo East), arriving Mombasa 2:00pm. Return schedules operate on the same pattern from Mombasa.
Economy, First and Premium class
For safaris that include the SGR, the train fare is already built into your safari price - no separate booking needed on your end.
Children aged 3-11 travelling with an adult pay half fare. Children 3 and under travel free. Fares are set in Kenyan Shillings and can change without notice - your travel advisor confirms current pricing at booking.
From the "Lunatic Express" to Madaraka
Kenya's first railway, built by the British from 1896, took nearly five years and cost 2,500 workers their lives to lion attacks, disease and accidents. Locals nicknamed it the "Lunatic Express."
A Kamba prophetess named Syokimau is said to have foretold its arrival decades earlier - an "iron snake" bringing foreign settlers and profound change. That old line eventually gave rise to Nairobi itself. The modern Madaraka Express, meaning "freedom" in Swahili, replaced it in 2017.
Madaraka Express - your questions answered
How long does the train take from Nairobi to Mombasa?
The express service takes around 6 hours, compared to 8-10 hours by road. The Intercounty service, which stops at more stations, takes slightly longer.
Which parks can I see from the train?
Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks - the elevated track gives clear views over the savannah, with elephants, giraffes and occasionally lions visible from your seat.
Is the train fare included in Africa Kenya Safaris packages?
Yes - for any safari itinerary that uses the SGR, the fare is already built into your package price.
What's the child fare policy?
Children aged 3-11 travelling with an adult pay half fare. Children 3 and under travel free. Children over 11 pay the full adult fare.
Where are the Nairobi and Mombasa terminuses?
The Nairobi Terminus is in Syokimau, about 12km south of the city centre, near JKIA. The Mombasa Terminus is in Miritini, a short drive from the city centre.
What amenities are on board?
Wide comfortable seating, charging points, free WiFi, a buffet car for snacks and sandwiches, and secure luggage storage areas.