Updated SGR Train Schedule: Nairobi to Mombasa Timings & Prices 2026

Would you be planning a seamless journey between Nairobi and Mombasa? This complete, up-to-date SGR Train Schedule guide gives you everything you need: daily departure times, ticket prices, booking tips, and essential travel-day advice, all in one place. Safari lovers can easily combine their SGR journey with our Nairobi or Mombasa safaris based on their schedule. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Morning vs. Afternoon vs. Night — SGR Departure Times

Complete SGR train schedule showing departure times, arrival times, and stops for Nairobi-Mombasa routes
Direction Train Type Departure Arrival Stops (Inter-County Transfers) Notes
Nairobi → Mombasa Inter-County 08:00 AM 2:00 PM Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Voi, Miasenyi, Mariakani Best for town transfers and flexible connections
Nairobi → Mombasa Express 3:00 PM 8:30 PM Limited / Mostly non-stop Faster, ideal for direct city travel
Nairobi → Mombasa Night Express 10:00 PM 3:35 AM (next day) Non-stop Overnight travel, fastest turnaround
Mombasa → Nairobi Inter-County 08:00 AM 2:10 PM Mariakani, Miasenyi, Voi, Mtito Andei, Kibwezi, Emali, Athi River Daytime travel with many connection towns
Mombasa → Nairobi Express 3:00 PM 8:18 PM Limited / Mostly non-stop Quick afternoon departure
Mombasa → Nairobi Night Express 10:00 PM 3:35 AM (next day) Non-stop Night travel, fastest option

The inter-county train makes key stops and is ideal for travelers connecting to inland towns or those heading to Tsavo East/West. It pairs well with Kenya Nairobi Safaris that begin from towns like Voi or Mtito Andei.

Quick Tip: For the most flexibility, especially if you want to arrive in Mombasa early, go for the 8:00 AM Inter-County or the 3:00 PM Express, depending on how soon you need to reach your destination.

Ticket Prices & Classes (Economy / First / Premium)

Class One-Way Fare: Nairobi → Mombasa Return Fare (Approx.)
Economy KSh ~1,500
First / Premium KSh ~4,500–5,000 (varies by availability) ~KSh 8,000–10,000 (varies)

What you get per class:

  • Economy: Basic seating (3+2 config), occasional onboard snack cart.

  • First / Premium: More comfortable seating (2+2 or 1+1 config), more leg room, likely a restaurant or snack coach, sometimes extra amenities (charging ports, better comfort) depending on coach.

Note: Children (age 3–11) typically pay half fare; children under 3 travel free.

How to Book SGR Train: Step-by-Step

  1. Visit the official SGR booking portal metickets.krc.co.ke or use USSD (*639#) on your Safaricom line.
  2. Select departure station (e.g., Nairobi Terminus or Mombasa Terminus), destination, travel date, train type (Inter-County / Express / Night), class, and number of passengers.

  3. Pay using M-Pesa, bank transfer, or card (depending on availability) — M-Pesa is the most commonly used method in Kenya.

  4. You may book up to 60 days in advance (or 62 days for group bookings).

  5. On travel day, arrive at the station at least 60 minutes before departure. Gates typically close 10 minutes before departure. Bring original ID.

  6. For Safari goers, contact AK African Tours and Safaris

Where Does SGR Start and End?

  • The SGR (Madaraka Express) passenger service starts in Nairobi at Nairobi Terminus (Syokimau).
  • It ends in Mombasa at Mombasa Terminus (Miritini).
  • The main passenger route is: Nairobi (Syokimau) ↔ Mombasa (Miritini).
  • For the Inter-County SGR, the train also stops at key intermediate towns for passenger transfers.
  • These intermediate stops include: Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Voi, Miasenyi, and Mariakani.
  • Express and Night Express trains operate mostly non-stop between Nairobi and Mombasa.
  • All passengers must board and alight only at official SGR termini and designated inter-county stations.

Insider Travel Tips on the SGR Train Schedule

  • Station logistics: The Nairobi Terminus sits in Syokimau (south of Nairobi), not in central Nairobi. Give yourself extra time for the city-centre to station transfer (taxis/buses).

  • Connection on arrival: At Mombasa, the SGR terminus is in Miritini (a suburb of Mombasa). You’ll likely need a taxi or shuttle to Mombasa city centre or beaches. Many travel-info sites omit this.

  • Best seats for scenery: If you’re travelling during daylight (Inter-County or 3:00 PM Express), sit on the right/south-east side (when heading to Mombasa) for better views of plains, Tsavo, and possibly early wildlife sightings.

  • What to pack: Bring a power bank (charging ports may be limited), a light jacket (air-conditioning may be chilly), and snacks, especially if travelling Economy.

  • Flexibility for peak season: Between December and January, extra trains are sometimes released to ease the festive-season rush. Check official announcements before booking.

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