The essentials
- Journey: Nairobi Terminus to Mombasa Terminus, about 4 hours 30 on the express train.
- Departures: three a day in each direction according to our sources, at around 8 am, 3 pm and 10 pm. Slower trains with intermediate stops also exist: check the official Kenya Railways booking site for the day's timetable.
- Classes: Economy and First Class. Some sites mention a Premium class, to be confirmed.
- Indicative prices (adult, one way): Economy 1,500 KES, First Class 4,500 KES. Children aged 3 to 11 pay half, under-3s travel free. These fares were unchanged in 2026; we found no separate fare for non-residents.
Booking your ticket
Booking is online on the official Kenya Railways site (the "metickets" portal), where you choose the date, class and number of passengers. Foreign travellers enter their passport number. Payment is by card or mobile (M-Pesa) depending on the system in force: bring a bank card. Book ahead for weekends, school holidays and public holidays, as trains fill up.
The stations: one thing not to forget
- Nairobi Terminus is at Syokimau, south-east of the city, near the airport and the Mombasa road, about 20 km from the centre. Allow 30 to 60 minutes by taxi or Uber depending on traffic. See also from Nairobi airport to the centre.
- Mombasa Terminus is at Miritini, on the mainland, about 12 km from the centre of the island. Allow 30 to 45 minutes by taxi or Uber to the centre or the Old Town.
- Arrive well ahead of time: luggage security check and ticket and ID verification at the entrance. Bring your passport.
On board and along the way
The carriages are comfortable, with numbered seats; drinks and snacks are generally offered on board, but bring water. The train crosses the Tsavo region: sit by the window and keep your camera handy, with luck you may spot wildlife.
SGR or another option?
| Option | Duration | Price (rough figure) | For whom |
|---|---|---|---|
| SGR train Economy | about 4 h 30 | 1,500 KES | budget, comfortable enough |
| SGR train First Class | about 4 h 30 | 4,500 KES | more space |
| Domestic flight | about 1 h | depends on airline and date | saving time |
| Road (night bus, car) | 8 to 10 h | varies | night driving not advised |
For a detailed comparison with flying and driving for a safari, see domestic flight or road.
What to do in Mombasa afterwards
On arrival you are a few minutes from the historic heart: Mombasa, Fort Jesus and the Old Town. To prepare what comes next and payments on the ground, see money, M-Pesa and tipping in Kenya.
Tips
- Book online and keep the ticket on your phone and as a screenshot.
- Arrive at least an hour before departure (more for the night train).
- Plan your taxi to the station before you go: avoid drivers who approach you in the street.
- Keep a small bag with water, a snack and your documents within reach.
