Madaraka Express Online Booking: How to Book Your SGR Ticket in 2026

The Madaraka Express (Standard Gauge Railway – SGR) remains Kenya’s premier rail service in 2026, delivering fast, safe, and scenic travel between Nairobi and Mombasa (with extensions to commuter routes like Nairobi-Ngong/Suswa). Operated by Kenya Railways Corporation, it offers express (direct), inter-county (multiple stops), and occasional night trains for flexibility.

In 2026, online booking via metickets.krc.co.ke is fully streamlined, with mobile app support, M-Pesa integration, and occasional extra trains during peak seasons (e.g., festive surges). Fares have seen adjustments (e.g., economy from KSh 1,500 one-way in recent updates; premium/first class higher), reflecting operational costs and demand.

This updated guide covers the 2026 online booking process, current fares/schedules, payment options, and tips, ideal for Nairobi residents, tourists, or coastal commuters.

Why Choose Madaraka Express in 2026?

Speed — Nairobi to Mombasa in ~4.5 hours (express) or ~5-6 hours (inter-county).
Affordability — Economy ~KSh 1,500; First Class/Premium ~KSh 3,000–12,000 (varies by route/section).
Comfort & Safety — Air-conditioned coaches, onboard security, Wi-Fi in some classes (mobile data reliable), scenic Tsavo views.
Reliability — Multiple daily departures; extra trains added for holidays (e.g., festive 2025/2026 additions).
Eco-Friendly — Lower emissions vs. road travel; modern fleet.

How to Book Madaraka Express Online in 2026 (5 Simple Steps) Booking is seamless via the official platform—no agents needed for standard tickets.

Step 1: Visit the Official Booking Site Go to https://metickets.krc.co.ke/ (main portal; mobile-responsive). Alternatively, download the Kenya Railways SGR App (Google Play or Apple App Store) for on-the-go booking.

Step 2: Enter Travel Details

Departure: Nairobi Terminus or Mombasa Terminus.
Arrival: Opposite end (or intermediate for inter-county).
Date: Up to 30+ days ahead (book early for peaks).
Train Type: Express (fewer stops), Inter-county (more stations like Athi River, Emali, Voi), or Night/Commuter variants.
Class: Economy, First Class, or Premium (where available).
Passengers: Adults, children (3-11 half fare), infants (free). Click “Search” for availability/seats.

Step 3: Select Seat & Payment

Choose seat (window/aisle; some premium reserved).
Payment: M-Pesa (most popular; STK push), credit/debit card, bank transfer.
Confirm details.

Step 4: Complete Payment For M-Pesa: Enter phone number → Receive prompt → Enter PIN. Instant confirmation via SMS/email with e-ticket (QR code/digital). Pro tip: Book via app for easier management; no upfront fees required.

Step 5: Receive & Use Ticket

Get e-ticket SMS/email (save/print).
Arrive 30-45 minutes early with ID/passport and ticket.
Board, enjoy the ride!

Alternative Booking Options

USSD: Dial *639# (no internet; M-Pesa pay).
App: Kenya Railways SGR/MyPower-integrated features.
Station Counter: Nairobi/Mombasa for walk-ins (cash/card).
Phone: Call 0709 388 888 or 0709 907 000/555 for inquiries.

Madaraka Express Schedule & Timetable (2026 Updates) Schedules stable; check portal for real-time (extra trains possible for demand).

Express/Direct (Limited Stops)

Nairobi to Mombasa: Depart ~3:00 PM, arrive ~7-8 PM (Voi stop).
Mombasa to Nairobi: Similar afternoon/evening.

Inter-County (Multiple Stops: Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Voi, Miasenyi, Mariakani)

Nairobi to Mombasa: Depart 8:00 AM, arrive ~2:00 PM.
Mombasa to Nairobi: Depart 8:00 AM, arrive ~2:00 PM.

Night Train (Occasional/Extended)

Depart ~10:00 PM, arrive ~3:35 AM next day (no stops or limited).

Commuter Extensions (Nairobi-Ngong/Suswa)

Daily Mon-Fri; weekend long-distance.

Holiday extras: Additional services (e.g., Dec 2025-Jan 2026 festive) may add departures—monitor announcements.

Madaraka Express Fares 2026 (Approximate One-Way; Check Portal for Exact) Fares revised periodically (e.g., post-2025 adjustments); children 3-11 half, under 3 free.

Economy: KSh 1,500 (Nairobi-Mombasa full route; lower for shorter).
First Class/Premium: KSh 3,000–12,000 (premium higher for direct/express).

Group/corporate discounts available; return fares often bundled.

FAQs: Madaraka Express Online Booking 2026

How early to book? Up to 30 days; 1-2 weeks ideal for peaks (holidays sell out fast).
Change/cancel ticket? Limited; station visit 48+ hours before (fees apply); non-refundable mostly.
Missed train? No refund; buy new ticket.
Luggage? 30kg free; excess charged.
Wi-Fi onboard? Limited/mobile data works (Safaricom/Airtel strong).
COVID/Health? No restrictions in 2026; masks optional.

Why Book Online in 2026?