Traveling between major cities in Kenya has been revolutionized by the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), offering a fast and reliable mode of transport. To enhance your travel experience, here’s a straightforward guide to booking your SGR ticket online.
1. Access the Official Booking Platform
Begin by visiting the official Kenya Railways booking website: metickets.krc.co.ke. This platform is designed for user convenience, ensuring a seamless booking process.
2. Create an Account (Optional but Recommended)
While guest bookings are available, creating an account offers benefits like faster future bookings and easy access to your travel history.
Steps to Register:
- Click on the “Sign Up” button.
- Enter your personal details, including name, email, and phone number.
- Verify your account through the confirmation email sent to you.
3. Select Your Travel Details
Choose your desired travel date and route. The SGR operates on several routes, with the primary ones being:
- Nairobi to Mombasa
- Nairobi to Suswa (via Naivasha)
Note: During peak seasons and holidays, trains can fill up quickly. It’s advisable to book at least a week in advance to secure your preferred travel date and time.
4. Choose Your Class and Number of Passengers
The SGR offers two classes:
- Economy Class: Standard seating without meal service.
- First Class: Spacious seating with meal service included.
Pricing (Nairobi to Mombasa):
- Economy Class: Approximately Ksh 1,000
- First Class: Approximately Ksh 3,000
Prices are subject to change; always refer to the official website for the most current rates.
5. Proceed to Payment
After selecting your travel details, proceed to payment. The platform supports various payment methods:
- M-Pesa
- Credit/Debit Cards
- Other Mobile Money Options
Upon successful payment, a confirmation with your ticket details will be sent to your email and via SMS.
6. Save Your Ticket Confirmation
It’s essential to have your ticket during boarding. You can either:
- Print the ticket.
- Save the digital copy on your mobile device.
Ensure the QR code or booking reference is clearly visible for scanning at the station.
7. Arrival at the Station
On the day of travel:
- Arrival Time: Arrive at least 1 hour before departure to allow time for security checks and boarding procedures.
- Check-In: Present your ticket and identification at the entrance.
Departure Times:
- Morning Inter-County Train: Departs at 8:00 AM
- Afternoon Express Train: Departs at 3:00 PM
- Night Train: Departs at 10:00 PM
Timings are subject to change; always verify the schedule on the official website before your travel date.
Additional Tips:
- Luggage: Familiarize yourself with the luggage policies to avoid any inconveniences.
- Station Facilities: Stations are equipped with amenities like waiting lounges, restrooms, and food vendors.
- Customer Support: For any inquiries or assistance, contact Kenya Railways at 0709 907 000 or 0709 907 555.
By following this guide, booking your SGR ticket online will be a hassle-free experience, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey across Kenya.
