Nairobi to Mombasa by train: the Madaraka Express

The Madaraka Express runs between Nairobi Terminus and Mombasa Terminus. The Inter-County train stops at Mariakani, Miasenyi, Voi, Mtito Andei, Kibwezi, Emali and Athi River; the faster trains stop only at Voi.

Kenya Railways' two pages give different departure times. Its passenger-service page lists 8:00 am, 3:00 pm and 10:00 pm from both ends; its timetable and fares page lists 8:20 am (Inter-County) and 3:00 pm (Express) from Nairobi, and 8:00 am and 3:00 pm from Mombasa, with no night train. Use the time on your ticket when you book.

The timetable and fares page lists two classes: First Class and Economy Class.

Book online at metickets.krc.co.ke, by USSD on *639#, or at a Madaraka Express station counter. Payment is by M-Pesa (SIM toolkit) or card at the counter.

Kenya Railways says tickets can be booked up to 60 days in advance.

Carry your original ID document — for example a passport — and your ticket. The Conditions of Carriage say passengers must have a national ID card or other valid identification when they travel.

Book only on Kenya Railways' own channels. Unofficial sites and agents may charge more or sell tickets that aren't valid.

Arrive at the station at least an hour before departure. The final call for boarding is 11 minutes before departure, and the gates to the platform close 10 minutes before.

Live animals and pets are not allowed on board, nor are narcotic or controlled drugs, including khat (miraa).

Kenya Railways publishes no luggage weight or size limit in its Conditions of Carriage. If you are carrying large or heavy bags, ask at the station or when you book.

Children under 13 must travel with a parent or guardian. Children aged 3 to 11 travelling with adults pay half fare, and children over 11 pay the full fare.

The Conditions of Carriage also say children aged 3 and below don't pay. Because the two age rules overlap at 3, confirm a 3-year-old's fare when you book.

Ask to cancel and get a refund at least 48 hours before departure. Refunds carry a fee of 30% of the fare and are paid within two weeks of the request.

Rescheduling a ticket costs 10% of the fare. A ticket can be rescheduled only once, and once rescheduled it can't be refunded.