Nairobi to Mombasa

To travel from Nairobi to Mombasa by train, you can take the Madaraka Express Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), which is a fast and comfortable option. The train service runs between Nairobi Terminus (in Syokimau, outside Nairobi) and Mombasa Terminus (in Miritini, near Mombasa).

Train Details:
The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on whether you choose the Express Train, which only stops at the major stations, or the Inter-County Train, which makes stops at several smaller towns along the way.

Frequency:
The Madaraka Express operates daily, with trains departing twice a day, one in the afternoon at 3:00 PM and one at night 10:00 PM.

Ticket Costs:
First Class: Approximately KES 4,500 for adults & KES 2250 for children.  
Economy Class: Approximately KES 1,500 for adults to KES 750  for children. 
Free of cost for children below 3 years.

Online Booking here

This train offers a scenic ride through Kenya's landscape, passing by national parks and rural areas, making it a pleasant and affordable way to travel between the two cities.

Tips: 
Book a month in advance especially during peak season.

Flying from Nairobi to Mombasa is the fastest and most convenient option. The flights typically take around 1 hour.

Major Airlines:
Kenya Airways, Jambojet, Fly540, and Safarilink are the leading airlines that operate daily flights between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi and Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa.

Booking:
You can book flights through popular websites like Skyscanner, Kenya Airways or MakeMyTrip. 

Flight Frequency:
Flights are frequent, with departures almost every hour throughout the day. Kenya Airways and Jambojet alone have multiple daily flights.

Approximate Costs:
Economy class tickets typically range from KES 5,000 to KES 13,000 (around $35 to $70 USD) for a one-way ticket, depending on the season, time of booking, and the airline.

Distance: Approximately 484 kilometers (300 miles).
Duration: The journey by road takes about 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Route: The main highway connecting Nairobi to Mombasa is the A109, commonly known as the Mombasa Road. The route passes through towns such as Athi River, Machakos, Emali, Voi, and Mariakani.

By Bus

Popular bus companies include Modern Coast, Coast Bus, and Mash Poa.
Cost: Bus fares range from KES 2,000 to KES 3,500 depending on the service provider and type of bus (standard, business class).
Boarding Points: Buses leave frequently throughout the day from various terminals in Nairobi, such as the Railways Bus Station and specific company terminals on River Road or Accra Road. The buses usually drop off passengers at the main bus terminal in Mombasa.

By Matatu

Matatus (shared minivans) are another option for road travel between Nairobi and Mombasa. However, matatus generally offer less comfort compared to buses and may not be ideal for long-distance journeys. They are more common for short trips but are available for intercity travel.

Duration: Traveling by matatu can take 9 to 11 hours, depending on the number of stops made along the way and road conditions.
Cost: Prices are generally lower than buses, ranging from KES 800 to KES 1,500.
Boarding Points: Matatus to Mombasa can be found at various matatu stages in Nairobi, such as the River Road or downtown Nairobi areas. Matatus usually depart when full, which can sometimes lead to unpredictable departure times.

By Self-Drive

Driving from Nairobi to Mombasa is a popular option for those who enjoy road trips or prefer more flexibility in their journey. Several car rental companies in Nairobi offer self-driving options for the trip to Mombasa. Popular providers include Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Kenya Car Rentals. These companies have a variety of vehicle options ranging from economy cars, SUVs, to 4x4s for rougher terrain.

Cost Estimate: Daily rental rates for a standard sedan range from KES 4,000 to KES 6,500 per day. If you're opting for a 4x4, it may cost around KES 8,000 to KES 12,000 per day. Fuel costs for the trip will add an additional KES 4,000 to KES 7,000, depending on the fuel efficiency of your car. Other charges may include insurance, taxes, and optional extras like GPS or child seats.

Additional Charges and Tips:
Insurance: Basic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you may want to purchase additional coverage for added protection.
Toll Fees: There are no major toll fees on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, but be prepared for parking fees at various stops.

Road Conditions:
The highway is generally in good condition but expect some stretches with heavy traffic, especially near Nairobi and Mombasa. Be cautious of trucks, as this is a major transport route for goods. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition for the long drive and always carry essentials such as water, snacks, and an emergency kit. This self-driving option provides flexibility, allowing you to stop at scenic spots like Tsavo National Park along the way, making the trip a memorable experience.