Mombasa to Nairobi

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

Duration: 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 morning and one in the afternoon.

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: Ensure to book the train 1-2 months in advance especially during the peak seasons.

Flying from Mombasa to Nairobi is the fastest and most convenient option, however could be slightly expensive as compared to the train. The flights typically take around 1 hour.

Airlines: Major airlines such as Kenya Airways, Jambojet, Fly540, and Safarilink offer frequent daily flights between Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi.

Cost: Economy class fares range from KES 5,000 to KES 10,000 ($35 to $70 USD), depending on booking time and season.

Distance: Approximately 484 kilometers (300 miles).
Duration: 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Route: The primary route is the A109 Highway, passing through towns like Mariakani, Voi, Emali, Machakos, and Athi River.

Bus Services

Several long-distance buses operate between Mombasa and Nairobi, making bus travel one of the most popular and affordable options. Some of the top bus operators include Modern Coast, Coast Bus, and Mash Poa. These buses provide different classes of service, ranging from economy to business and VIP, with some offering air-conditioned coaches for added comfort.
.
Cost: Fares range from KES 1,000 to KES 2,500 depending on the bus type and class.
Frequency & Boarding Points: Buses to Nairobi operate frequently throughout the day, departing from bus terminals such as the Mombasa Bus Terminus or company-specific offices in central Mombasa. Upon arrival in Nairobi, passengers are usually dropped off at the main bus terminals like Railways Bus Station or River Road terminals.

Matatus

Matatus (shared minivans) also operate on the Mombasa to Nairobi route, but they are generally less comfortable for long-distance travel compared to buses. Matatus are usually more common for shorter journeys, but they are available for intercity trips as well.

Duration: The journey by matatu can take anywhere from 9 to 11 hours, depending on road conditions, the number of stops along the way, and traffic.
Cost: Matatu fares are generally cheaper than bus tickets, ranging from KES 800 to KES 1,500.
Boarding Points: Matatus to Nairobi can be found at various matatu stages in Mombasa, particularly around the central matatu stands. Matatus usually depart once they are full, so the departure times can be variable.

Self-Driving Options

Renting a car for the Mombasa to Nairobi trip is an option for those seeking flexibility. Rental companies like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and local providers offer vehicles ranging from economy sedans to 4x4s.

Cost Estimate: Rental prices range from KES 4,000 to KES 12,000 per day, with fuel expenses adding KES 4,000 to KES 7,000. Additional charges may include insurance and optional extras.

Tips: Although there are gas stations every 10-20 kms, ensure to fuel up the tank in the city limits to avoid any hassles.