Online Booking Platform for Kenya Railways SGR Train

In a world that's increasingly becoming digital and interconnected, the convenience of online services has become an integral part of our lives. Kenya Railways recognized this trend and embarked on a transformative journey to enhance the passenger experience by introducing the Madaraka Express train service website. On January 82018, this innovative platform was unveiled, marking a significant milestone in the country's transportation sector.

The Need for Change

Prior to the launch of the online booking platform, passengers faced numerous challenges when attempting to secure tickets for the SGR trains connecting Nairobi and Mombasa. Traditional methods like using USSD codes or physically visiting the station often resulted in frustrating experiences, with many travelers struggling to get the tickets they needed. The launch of the Madaraka Express train service website aimed to address these issues and provide a streamlined solution for travelers.

A Seamless Booking Experience

The Madaraka Express train service website serves as a hub for passengers to book their rides on the iconic Madaraka Express Train and the SGR intercounty trains. This user-friendly platform has transformed the way people plan their journeys and simplified the entire booking process. Let's delve into the step-by-step guide to booking your SGR train ticket online:

Step 1: Access the Website

To initiate the booking process, all you need to do is visit the official website: metickets.krc.co.ke. This online portal is designed to make your booking experience as smooth as possible.

Step 2: Select Your Preferred Train

The platform offers you the flexibility to choose between two main train types: the Madaraka Express for afternoon travel or the SGR intercounty train for morning journeys. This choice empowers travelers to tailor their selection according to their travel preferences and schedules.

Step 3: Choose Your Starting Station

Once you've selected your preferred train type, the next step is to choose your starting station. The available options include Mombasa, Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Miaseny, Mariakani, Mtito Andei, Voi, or Nairobi.

Step 4: Indicate Your Destination

After selecting your starting station, it's time to indicate your desired destination. The available destinations include Nairobi, Voi, Mtito Andei, Mariakani, Miaseny, Kibwezi, Emali, Athi River, or Mombasa. This feature ensures that your journey details are accurately captured.

Step 5: Specify Travel Date

To assist you in finding available trains for your chosen date, the platform requires you to input your travel date. This ensures that you're presented with options that align with your plans.

Step 6: Select Coach Type and Number of Passengers

Personalize your journey further by selecting your preferred coach type: Second Class or First Class. You can also specify the number of passengers traveling with you, making the booking process inclusive and accommodating for group travelers.

Step 7: Provide Passenger Details

The platform requires essential passenger information for ticket issuance and identification purposes. Provide full names, ID or passport numbers, and the country of origin to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Step 8: Choose Payment Option

In line with the digital age, the preferred payment option is Mpesa, a widely-used mobile payment service in Kenya. This secure and efficient method ensures that your transaction is completed seamlessly.

Step 9: Confirmation and Ticket Collection

Upon successful booking and payment, a confirmation message will be sent to you. This message contains vital details that will be used to print your ticket at the departing station. This step ensures that you're well-prepared for your journey.

Additional Information

In addition to the booking process, there are some important details to keep in mind:

• Advance Booking: As a traveler, you have the advantage of booking individual tickets up to 30 days in advance. This flexibility allows you to plan your trips well ahead of time.
• Group Bookings: If you're traveling with a group of more than 20 passengers, official bookings must be made at least 30 days before the intended travel date. This provision ensures that group travelers can enjoy the same convenience as individual passengers.

Train Schedule 2023

As of 2023, the SGR train schedule between Nairobi and Mombasa is as follows:

• N1 (Intercounty) Train: Departs Mombasa Terminus at 8:00 am, arriving at Nairobi Terminus at 1:42 pm.
• N2 (Intercounty) Train: Departs Nairobi Terminus at 8:20 am, arriving at Mombasa Terminus at 2:18 pm.
• E1 (Express) Train: Departs Mombasa Terminus at 3:15 pm, arriving at Nairobi Terminus at 8:14 pm.
• E2 (Express) Train: Departs Nairobi Terminus at 2:35 pm, arriving at Mombasa Terminus at 7:18 pm.

Embracing a Digital Future

The introduction of the online booking platform for Kenya Railways' SGR trains signifies a significant leap forward in the country's transportation sector. This innovative solution underscores Kenya Railways' commitment to enhancing the passenger experience and embracing the possibilities that the digital age offers. By enabling travelers to book their tickets conveniently, efficiently, and well in advance, the SGR train service is poised to become an even more integral part of Kenya's modern transportation landscape. As travelers embrace the convenience of online booking, the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and back has truly become a seamless experience.