Kenya Railways adds extra Nairobi–Mombasa trains for festive season rush
Kenya Railways will run additional Madaraka Express trains between Nairobi and Mombasa from December 8, 2025, to January 5, 2026, to ease festive-season congestion and meet rising passenger demand.
Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has announced the addition of passenger trains between Nairobi and Mombasa to meet the increased demand for holiday travel.
In a notice, KRC stated that the extra services will operate from early December to early January, providing relief for the usual surge in passengers on the popular route.
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The additional Madaraka Express Passenger Service will run from Monday, December 8, 2025, to Sunday, January 5, 2026. The move comes in response to higher demand during the festive season, when thousands of Kenyans and tourists travel along the scenic Nairobi–Mombasa line.
“We are committed to providing a safe and convenient travel experience, and the additional services will help ease congestion while maintaining punctuality,” reads the notice.
For travellers heading from Nairobi to Mombasa, the extra service will depart Nairobi at 9:40 am, arriving in Voi at 1:35 pm. The train will then leave Voi at 1:40 pm to reach Mombasa by 3:35 pm.
On the return journey, trains will depart Mombasa at 4:30 pm, arriving in Voi at 6:15 pm, before departing Voi at 6:20 pm to arrive in Nairobi at 10:55 pm.
KRC urged passengers to secure their seats early, either by visiting www.metickets.co.ke, dialling *639#, or visiting any Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) station nationwide.
“We advise passengers to book early to avoid last-minute disappointments, especially during this peak travel period,” it added.
The festive season expansion is part of KRC’s continued efforts to enhance passenger services on the Madaraka Express, which has grown in popularity due to its safety, comfort, and scenic route through southern Kenya. The railway line connects key towns and cities, including Nairobi, Voi and Mombasa, and is vital for both domestic travel and tourism.
The additional trains follow high passenger numbers during previous holiday periods, reflecting a growing preference for train travel over road transport.
KRC has also reminded passengers to observe standard travel guidelines, including arriving at least 30 minutes before departure and carrying valid identification. All necessary safety protocols will be observed to ensure smooth and enjoyable journeys.
Last September, President William Ruto officially opened the Mombasa rail service connecting the city’s Central Business District (CBD) to the SGR terminus in Miritini. With strategic stops at Miritini, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, Shimanzi, Mazeras and Mombasa CBD, the service is expected to transport up to 4,000 passengers daily.
It is designed to decongest city roads while offering a safer, more affordable and time-saving option for commuters and tourists.
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