Ride the Madaraka Express, Kenya's Newest Train

Linking Mombasa and Nairobi, with convenient stops near Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks, the "Madaraka Express" is cutting down travel times in Kenya, while offering a speedy and relaxing option to traditional road and bus travel.

This Standard Gauge Railway is the first of its kind in eastern Africa, but is only the start of what is the East African Master Railway Plan, which will eventually create reliable rail links between Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, South Sudan and DR Congo.

Featured on our Kenya Planes, Trains & Safarimobiles safari, this train largely following along existing corridors for highways and previous rail lines. Where it stands out is that the Madaraka Express travels at up to 75MPH, cutting travel times in half and offering riders a safe, spacious experience. Guests on the train also enjoy an elevated level of comfort and service.

Snacks, coffee and tea are available for purchase on the train; which includes both economy and first-class train compartments. Undoubtedly the most exciting portions of the train ride are when the train goes through wildlife-rich areas such as Tsavo National Park and Nairobi National Park. 

The train travels over 98 bridges, and also has numerous underpasses, viaducts and embankments along the route, which help to keep the train elevated above potential wildlife crossing areas. These designs were implemented to allow for wildlife to safely pass underneath the train tracks, adding to the environmentally friendly appeal of the train, compared to road travel.

Largely used by Kenyans, the train is a fantastic way to get to chat with fellow train riders, many of whom now use it as a means of commuting to work or as a vacation getaway to the coast of Mombasa.