KENYA RAILWAYS ANNOUNCES RISE IN FARES FOR SGR PASSENGER TRAIN
(Posted 22nd March 2018)
Kenya Railways earlier today announced the new tariff for economy class train passengers on the so called Madaraka Express, which connects the capital Nairobi with the port city of Mombasa in the space of just five hours.
Come 01st of May will the fare rise from the present 700 Kenya Shillings one way to 1.000 Kenya Shillings one way in economy class, still lower than the fares charged by busses but of course offering faster and safer transport.
Tens of thousands of passengers have since the launch of the train in end May 2017 used the trains, leading to a massive migration of travelers from the often hazardous busses to the railway – despite many logistical challenges encountered when booking tickets and when facing the open air slalom through multiple security checks without porters or baggage trolleys.
First class fares will according to the information received remain at 3.000 Kenya Shillings one way, a viable alternative to flying in terms of cost, though flights still remain the fastest method of travel between Nairobi and Mombasa.
Only recently did Kenya Railways begin to charge a parking fee for vehicles picking up or dropping off passengers, similar to charges vehicles face when entering airport parking.
The coast tourism industry has been in support of the rail transport option and over the past months started to offer packages which include rail transport, transfers and accommodation / meals at coastal resorts but also – notably – has Serena Hotels launched offers for train passengers disembarking at Mtito Andei to their Kilaguni Serena Lodge in Tsavo West.
