Why you should use the new Madaraka Express in Kenya

4 Things You Should Know about the New Madaraka Express in Kenya

This is probably the best time to travel to Kenya!

If you are really keen on exploring the striking adventures of Kenya’s two largest cities – Nairobi and the coastal city of Mombasa, a fresh icing has now been added to your cake, courtesy of the new Madaraka Express rail system.

This standard gauge railway connects the port of Mombasa to Nairobi, the nation’s capital. And within a week after its launch, about 7,000 passengers have used the service.

So whether you are resident in Kenya or a traveler to this East African’s largest economy, here are 4 things to know about the all new Madaraka Express.

#1. It’s faster and cheaper

Travelers to Kenya have never had it this good. The same is true for locals who want to travel smarter and cheaper. So, if you are looking for a smarter way to connect Mombasa from Nairobi and other adjoining cities, the new Madaraka Express is your best bet.

Currently, it takes only four-and-a-half hours to get to Mombasa from Nairobi compared to 9hours on the road or 12 hours on the previous railway known as the Lunatic Express.

Recall that as at 2016, passenger trains were taking up to as long as 24 hours to travel to Mombasa from Nairobi, compared to the 12-hour timetable of previous years.

All that is now history with the introduction of Madaraka Express!

#2. More options for travelers  

At the moment, passengers can only book their tickets from SGR’s offices in Mombasa or Nairobi stations. Meanwhile, an online booking platform for Madaraka Express tickets is currently being developed by the government.

Once completed, passengers can make their payments using the M-pesa mobile money platform. 

And the fun part is that the online booking platform will offer loads of options and choices to travelers – whether they prefer the economy class, first class or the luxurious presidential coaches.

#3. Smooth access to top East African destinations

This new Madaraka Express will make the east African region more accessible for travel and tourism. 

According to the East African Railway Masterplan, when completed, the Madaraka Express will link up with other standard gauge railways being built in Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Ethiopia and South Sudan. 

#4. Fascinating views while in transit

Travelers will not only enjoy the thrill of riding in the convenient, mega double-decker coaches, they also have the rare privilege to enjoy spectacular views of wild animals roaming wild and free in the Tsavo Conservation Area as well as the Nairobi National Park.

So, if you are travelling to Kenya any soon, consider adding a train ride on Madaraka Express to your itinerary, and enjoy firsthand the newest addition to Kenya’s dizzying attractions.   

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