![](https://siliconafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/article-thumb-23.webp)
Newsletter Subscribe
Enter your email address below and subscribe to our newsletter
Since mid-2017, Kenya Railway has been operating the Madaraka Express, commonly referred to as the SGR. This railway system consists of two kinds of trains: the intercity train and the inter-county train. The Intercity Train provides a rapid service between Nairobi Terminus and Mombasa Terminus. Meanwhile, the inter-county train stops at several stations along the route, including Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Maisenyi, and Voi.
Many people now prefer traveling on the Madaraka Express, making it advisable to book your SGR ticket ahead of time. Tickets for the Madaraka Express can be booked up to 60 days in advance.
There are two ticket classes available for the train service: First Class and Economy Class.
In First Class, there are two seats on each side of the row, totaling four seats across the width of the car. Additionally, first-class passengers have access to a restaurant coach where they can find a selection of basic snacks and drinks.
Economy Class, on the other hand, has three seats on one side and two on the other, making a total of five seats across the width of the car. Passengers in Economy Class can buy snacks and drinks from a catering cart that moves between the coaches during the journey.
Currently, there are two express trains and one inter-county service running daily between Nairobi and Mombasa.
You can book Madaraka SGR train tickets through three methods:
The Madaraka Express offers two ticket categories: first class and economy. Here are the fare prices for the express service:
FIRST CLASS
ECONOMY CLASS
When booking your Madaraka train ticket on the Kenya Railways website, please be aware that only MPESA mobile money payments are accepted at checkout. If you don’t have access to the MPESA mobile money service, you can contact us to book and pay for your tickets using PayPal or a credit or debit card.
Step 1: Visit the Madaraka Express Website
Go to the SGR website at metickets.krc.co.ke to book online.
Step 2: Choose the train of your choice
Under Train Type, select your preferred train. You have the option to choose between:
Both trains offer two classes: first and economy. Departures are available from Nairobi Terminus or Syokimau Main Station, and also from Mombasa Terminus or Miritini Main Station.
Step 3: Choose the destination
Enter the station where you’ll board the train under “FROM,” then input your destination. You can select from the following SGR stations:
Step 4: Select a departure date
Click on the calendar icon and choose the date of your travel from the available options.
Step 5: Click on “Book a Train.”
This step brings you close to completing the process.
Step 6: Enter the number of travelers
Once you’ve selected your tickets, a section will appear showing prices for adults and children. Here, you’ll indicate the number of travelers, specifying whether they are adults or children. The total fare will then be calculated.
Step 7: Payment
Provide the full government names of all travelers, along with their gender and nationality. Adults must include their I.D. number. In the Payment details section, input your mobile number, which you’ll use for the mandatory payment. Providing an email address is optional.
On the side of the page, you’ll find details about your coach, departure date and time, number of adults and children, and the total amount due. Pay the total amount using MPESA.
To pay for an SGR ticket via MPESA, follow these steps:
Indeed, you can easily book your SGR train ticket directly from your phone, which is the simplest booking method available.
The fares for SGR tickets vary depending on the class. Currently, first-class travelers pay shs.3000/-, while an economy-class seat costs Khs.1000.
First-class tickets come with additional perks compared to economy/second-class tickets, hence the price difference.
Is Refund Possible?
SGR offers a 70% refund for tickets that haven’t been damaged if you encounter any issues before the travel date. This means you’ll receive Khs—300 (for Economy class) and Shs—900 (for first class) upon cancellation of your ticket.
However, to claim the refund, individuals must do so 48 hours before their scheduled departure, while groups must do it 72 hours before.
Additionally, a 10% deduction applies for rescheduling a trip. You must inform the SGR staff as soon as you realize you won’t be able to travel as originally scheduled.
For assistance with your SGR MPESA booking or any other inquiries, you can reach out to the SGR customer care team using the following contact information:
Here are some helpful tips for SGR MPESA booking:
In conclusion, the SGR, or Madaraka Express, has revolutionized travel in Kenya, offering convenience, comfort, and efficiency to passengers. With easy booking options, including MPESA payment, and a variety of travel classes to choose from, the SGR caters to the diverse needs of travelers. Whether embarking on a scenic journey from Nairobi to Mombasa or commuting between intermediate stations, the SGR provides a seamless travel experience. Additionally, the availability of cargo services and linking trains further enhances its accessibility and utility. As the SGR continues to operate day and night, it remains a vital transportation artery in Kenya, facilitating economic growth and connectivity across the country. Experience the modern era of rail travel with the SGR, where every journey is a testament to progress and convenience.