Learn how to book the SGR with our easy and simple guide.
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is one of Kenya’s most convenient travel options. It ferries people and cargo between Kenya’s Capital, Nairobi, and the largest port in East Africa, Mombasa. The Kenyan government recently opened the Suswa station, allowing passengers to travel from Nairobi to Suswa and back. For anyone traveling to and from these locations, SGR offers a convenient and affordable way to move.
But, if you’re traveling for the first time, you likely are unsure how to go about it. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to book the SGR. We’ll also answer all questions you might have about the SGR.
Also Read: Tips to Travel on a Budget
Step-by-Step Guide on How to book the SGR
Booking the SGR is simple. You can do so online through their website or through your phone. Let’s look at each of these options.
How to book The SGR via phone (Using USSD)
You can book the SGR through your phone by dialing the USSD *639#. Note that you’ll need at least one shilling in airtime to book the SGR via phone. With that in mind, here’s how to book the SGR via M-Pesa
Step 1: Dial *639#.
Step 2: Choose the type of train.
First step on how to book the SGR using phone is to dial #639# then choose the type of train.
- Intercounty train: Leaves at 8:00 AM and stops at different intermediary stations, including Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Voi, Miaseny, and Mariakani. Nairobi bound train arrives at 2:08 PM while Mombasa bound train arrives at 2:00 PM. Be sure to specify your boarding point and destination in the steps below.
- Nairobi-Voi-MSA Express: Book the 3:00 PM or 10:00 PM options from Nairobi to Mombasa. This train is express and doesn’t stop at any intermediate station
- Mombasa-Voi-Nairobi Express: Book the 3:00 PM or 10:00 PM options from Mombasa to Nairobi. This training is express and doesn’t stop at any intermediate station.
Step 3: Specify where you’re departing from.
Next, step on how to book the SGR using USSD code is to select where you’re taking the train from.
Step 4: Specify your destination.
When booking the SGR using phone, you’ll also need to specify where you are going.
Step 5: Specify the date.
Next on how to book the SGR is to choose the date that you would like to travel.
Step 6:Specify the coach.
Whether first class or second class. Note that SGR first class charges 3000, while second, 1000.
You also need to pick a coach – whether first class or second class. This step on how to book the SGR is important as it will determine the amount you’ll pay.
Step 7: Specify the number of passengers.
If you’re traveling alone, that should be one. But if you’re with company, then key in the number of those you’ll be traveling with. You’re allowed to book to a maximum of 10 people per session. Meaning, if you have more than 10, you’ll need to repeat the same process for the other group.
Next on how to book the SGR using USSD, enter the number of passengers traveling. If you’re alone, key in 1, etc.
Step 8: Specify the number of children you’re traveling with and their age.
Note that children below the age of 3 years won’t pay. However, those between ages 3 and 11 will be charged half-price.
If you are traveling with children, specify age and number when SGR booking via USSD
Step 9: Specify your name, gender, ID, and nationality in the format John Doe, M, 12345678, Kenya.
Please pay attention to the format as any mistake will lead to an error. Start with both your names as they appear on the National Identity card, followed by your gender (male or female). Then type in your ID number and then nationality. If you are from a different country, please use your passport number. If you are between 12 and 17 (or are traveling with someone between those ages), you’ll need to add the age at the end – after country. So, it’ll be like this: John Doe M 12345678 Kenya 12.
Book the SGR using your phone
Step 10: Choose to pay now or later.
Please note that choosing later doesn’t reserve your sit.
The last step on how to book the SGR is tp make payments.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Book the SGR Online – Through the SGR Website
Here’s how to book the SGR online.
Step 1: Go online.
Open your web browser and search for Madaraka Express or click this link to the booking page https://metickets.krc.co.ke/index.php.
How to book the SGR online
Step 2: Select your Train Type.
Whether it’s intercounty, or express. Intercounty is the morning train (8:00 am) that stops at different stations. Express is the afternoon and night train (3:00 pm and 10:00 pm) that goes straight from Nairobi-Mombasa or Mombasa-Nairobi and doesn’t stop.
- Select where you’d board From. If it’s the intercounty, this could be Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Miasenyi, Mariakani, Mtito Andei, Voi, Mombasa, or Nairobi terminus. If it’s Express, you can only board in Nairobi or Mombasa.
- Select your Destination: This is where you’re going, and could be Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Miasenyi, Mariakani, Mtito Andei, Voi, Mombasa, or Nairobi terminus. For Express, it’s always either Mombasa or Nairobi.
- Select your Departure Date: This is when you’re planning to travel with the SGR. Be careful to pick the right date, as any mistake might mean not being able to travel.
- Click Book a Train.
How to book the SGR online
Step 3: This will redirect you to the next page, where you add your details.
Follow these steps:
- Click the drop-down to pick the number of adults traveling. If you’re the only one, pick 1. If you’re ten of you, choose 10.
- Do the same for Children (12 – 17 years) and Children (3-11 years).
- Choose Coach Type – whether it’s Economy or First Class. Economy costs 1,000 for adults, 1,000 for children (12-17) and 500 for children (3-11). First Class costs 3,000 for adults and teens and 1,500 for children (3-11).
- Click Book a Train
How to book the SGR online
Step 4: This will redirect you to the last page, where you provide more booking information.
Enter your passenger details and ensure that the name on your booking matches the name on your passport or ID. Each adult of 18 years and above must provide a valid ID or passport number. No two adult passengers of 18 years and above can share the same ID/Passport number on the same train. On this page, you’ll provide information, including:
- Full Name
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ID or Passport No. For kids, you’ll need a guardian ID or Passport No.
- Age
- Gender
- Nationality – pick Kenya if you’re from Kenya or your country if you’re from a different country.
- Payment Details: M-Pesa Mobile No.
- Email Address
Booking the SGR through their online portal
Step 5: Read through the useful information
Step 6: Accept Terms and Conditions
Step 7: Check I’m not a robot
Step 8: Click Pay Now or Pay Later
How to book the SGR
How to Book The SGR in Person
The last option is to go to the SGR station to book your SGR ticket. Visit the nearest SGR station and walk to the booking counter to make payments. It is a good idea to do so in advance so you don’t miss your ticket.
How to Book The SGR Via M-Pesa
Lastly, you can book the SGR via your M-Pesa app. Just open the M-Pesa app and open the service section to access Madaraka Express. Then Choose your preferred date and time, number of tickets and fill your personal details. You’ll be prompted to key in your M-Pesa number which you’ll use to pay.
What Happens After you Book The SGR?
Once you book the SGR, you will receive a text message with your E-ticket number. If you don’t receive the confirmation message, you can still find the E-ticket number in your M-pesa payment message. You’ll need this ticket number to print your SGR ticket. Please note that you must have your original ID during travel.
How to Print SGR Ticket
If you book your SGR ticket in-person, then the attendant will print the ticket for you. However, if you book online or through your phone USSD, you will have to print the ticket at the SGR station. Printing your ticket at the station is easy – on the ticket machine, enter the number that you used to book the ticket (M-Pesa number) and the ticket number and click print.
Enter Phone Number > Ticket Number > Click Query > Print
How do I get to the SGR in Nairobi?
There are many ways to get to the SGR terminus in Syokimau.
- Use the Commuter Train: The commuter train is the easiest way to get to the SGR terminus. That’s because you won’t have to connect or worry about getting stuck in a traffic jam. But it runs on a specific schedule you’ll have to adhere to if you don’t want to miss it. The train starts at the Railway Station in Nairobi town (Along Haile Selassie Avenue, (next to Easy Coach).
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Use Town Service or Private Vehicles: Alternatively, you can use the town service busses or matatus that go straight to the SGR terminus. You’ll get these at the railway station in Nairobi or Mombasa. Private cars also ferry people to the SGR and can be found in estates or at select locations. Alternatively, you can use Uber or Bolt services, though these can be quite expensive, especially if you’re traveling a long distance.
Foods and Snacks at the SGR
The SGR allows commuters to bring their food and snacks. This means you can carry whatever food you wish. You can also buy food at the hotels at the SGR terminus station or on the train. The NAS team in the SGR serves different foods and snacks, including rice, stews, sandwiches, muffins, crisps, juices, coffee, team, water, mandazis, croissants, etc.
Can you Carry Alcoholic Beverages to the SGR?
Initially, the SGR allowed commuters to carry alcoholic drinks. However, this was stopped later on. As of today, alcoholic drinks are not allowed into the station and onboard the trains. However, you can still get alcoholic beverages at the stores at the SGR terminus or inside the train. But you’ll only be able to drink the alcohol past 11:00 PM for the morning train and 6:00 PM for the evening train. These rules came by after some commuters started misbehaving due to intoxication.
How to Cancel or Reschedule SGR Tickets
You can cancel or reschedule your SGR tickets whenever need arises. However, your cancellation and rescheduling requests must be done 48 hours before the departure time indicated on the ticket irrespective of when you booked the ticket. Rescheduling and cancelations can only be done over the counter at the nearest Madaraka Express Passenger Service Station. You also must produce your original identification document and copy of the same.
Which Items Are Prohibited at the SGR?
You won’t be allowed to enter the SGR with:
- Sharp objects like knives, chisel, scissors, utensils, etc.
- Sprays with inflammable sign, like perfumes, hair spray, etc.
- Pets like cats, dogs, birds, chicken, rabbit, etc.
Can I Transfer SGR Tickets?
SGR tickets are not transferable, meaning you cannot have someone else use it on your behalf.
How to Pay for the SGR
All payments are to be made via M-Pesa (or cash at the counter). Transactions directly from your bank account will be unsuccessful.
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