Travelers planning to head to the Kenyan coast this festive season may need to adjust their plans, as Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) premium trains are now fully booked through February 2025.
SGR Managing Director Philip Mainga revealed in a press briefing on Thursday, October 13, that the demand for premium-class travel between Nairobi and Mombasa has been overwhelming. “The demand for this premium class is high, so we are now going to order more coaches and equipment to ensure that everyone is accommodated. And for your information, we are booked until February,” he said.
To meet the festive travel rush, Mainga confirmed that the railway management is considering introducing special trains, similar to those previously arranged for Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members celebrating their 20th anniversary in Mombasa. “We are fully booked for Christmas; we do not have any seats, but we are willing to run special trains and ensure that Kenyans go to Mombasa and enjoy themselves and come back,” he added.
This is not the first time SGR has made adjustments to handle holiday travel. Last year, Kenya Railways launched a special Madaraka Express train operating on a one-way route from Nairobi to Mombasa, taking approximately six hours. The initiative successfully facilitated travel during the peak season and is expected to be repeated.
The announcement coincides with advisories from the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), urging motorists to observe all road signs and maintain road safety during the festive season. KURA also warned that contractors who fail to install proper signage at road construction sites will face enforcement action.
With increased social activities and travel expected over the holidays, SGR’s additional coaches and potential special trains aim to ensure smooth, safe, and comfortable journeys for Kenyans heading to the coast. Travelers are encouraged to book early and stay updated with SGR announcements to avoid last-minute inconveniences.
