Rail travel in Kenya has a rich and storied history, serving as a vital link that connects diverse regions and fosters economic growth across the country. Growing up, it was always a cherished treat to travel by train during the school or major holidays, lovingly arranged by our parents. The excitement of boarding and traveling on the iconic Nairobi-Mombasa route, passing through Tsavo National Park and catching glimpses of the Big Five, or journeying along the Nairobi-Kisumu route with its breathtaking views through the Rift Valley, catching sunsets and waking up to sunrises, made these trips unforgettable adventures.
These experiences were not just about reaching a destination but about the journey itself—a journey filled with wonder, discovery, and the simple joy of travel. A new chapter for rail travel in Kenya began on May 31st, 2017, heralding a new era in Kenya’s transportation landscape with the introduction of the Madaraka Express Passenger Service, which has become a household favorite among travelers. Now, Kenya Railways is taking this cherished experience to new heights with the introduction of the KR Premium, an exclusive, luxurious addition to the Madaraka Express passenger service, providing a premium travel experience between Nairobi and Mombasa.
The entire country has been abuzz with excitement at the news, eager to see and experience this new era of rail travel. Who wouldn’t be? It’s been a long time coming for an upgrade in rail transport, and the KR Premium promises to set a new standard for rail travel in East Africa. And it’s not just about getting from point A to B; it’s about the joy of travel itself—the comfort, the views, and the stories you create along the way.
We recently visited the SGR Nairobi Railways terminus for a firsthand tour of the premium coaches, eager to capture the experience through pictures for our readers. Each premium coach accommodates 28 passengers and is outfitted with modern features designed to elevate the travel experience, blending comfort, elegance, and contemporary amenities that cater to the rising demand for upscale journeys. The first thing that caught our attention was the warm welcome from the dedicated crew, dressed in stylish new uniforms that were both neat and smart.
Their professionalism and hospitality set the tone for a comfortable and enjoyable tour. According to KR, the crew is well-trained to enhance your journey with impeccable service, ensuring that every moment on board the KR Premium Coach is memorable. As we stepped into one of the coaches, the spacious seating arrangement immediately stood out.
The space exuded a sense of openness and comfort, whether you’re relaxing or catching up on work. The seats fully recline, transforming into bed-like sanctuaries that promise a restful journey. Each seat is equipped with a reading lamp, a socket panel, a wireless charger, a mobile viewing card slot, a flip table board, a charging port, and a cup holder.
Free Wi-Fi is available on board, ensuring you stay connected and powered up. The onboard entertainment system offers a wide range of options for enjoyment, including the latest music and movies. Depending on where you’re seated, automated window shutters to your left or right add a touch of modern convenience, while the rotating seats allow you to face any direction you prefer—perfect for soaking in the scenic views or engaging in conversation with your travel companion.
There are additional storage compartments, providing secure and easily accessible spaces to keep belongings organized and close at hand. No more wrestling with bulky bags or worrying about where to stow your things—everything is neatly arranged and hassle-free. Another aspect worth noting is the cleanliness and spaciousness of the onboard washrooms.
The facilities are meticulously maintained, ensuring a fresh and hygienic environment throughout the journey. The ample space within the restrooms adds to the comfort, making it easy for passengers to use them without feeling cramped, a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall travel experience. For food and drinks on board, KR has introduced a special menu on board.
The KR Premium service includes a fine dining menu with a dedicated crew to serve you. They ensure that every dining experience is as memorable as the journey itself. Travelers on morning departures will be served breakfast and lunch, with refreshments available throughout the journey.
Those traveling in the evening will enjoy dinner, with refreshments provided during the entire trip. And the VIP treatment doesn’t end there. Passengers of the KR Premium Coach will enjoy exclusive access to VIP lounges in Nairobi and Mombasa, priority boarding, and seamless disembarkation at terminals.
The KR Premium Coach also offers an improved Economy class, designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for travelers. The new Economy class has several features aimed at enhancing passenger comfort. One notable improvement is the redesigned seating arrangement; instead of the traditional face-to-face setup, the new 3-by-2 configuration has passengers seated either facing the departing station or the destination station.
The legroom is impressive—I tried it myself and found it spacious without feeling cramped. This generous space allows for a comfortable journey, letting you stretch out and relax, whether you’re reading, working, or simply enjoying the ride. This thoughtful layout ensures a more relaxed and personal space, making the journey more pleasant for everyone.
In addition to the improved seating, each seat has its own charging port, allowing everyone to keep their devices powered throughout the journey. There are also foldout tray tables and pocket seats for placing small items, making it easier to stay organized and comfortable. A designated baby-changing area provides convenience for families traveling with young children, and there are facilities designed with accessibility in mind, including seats and toilets tailored for differently-abled customers.
There are a few areas where there’s room for improvement in the premium coaches. Firstly, the menu could benefit from a wider variety of options, including an expanded selection of drinks. Offering a more refined selection of wines and bubbles would certainly elevate the dining experience.
Additionally, while the journey is enjoyable, a slightly shorter travel time—currently ranging between 5 to 6 hours—would be ideal. Finally, a modest reduction in the fare could make this luxurious experience even more accessible ( Per adult, it costs Kshs 12,000 on way while return is Kshs 20,000, while per child is Kshs 6,000 between ages 11- 13 ). As for the economy class, I found the seats to be a bit too upright.
It would be more comfortable if they could recline slightly. Overall, the tour gave us a true appreciation for the thought and care that went into creating the KR Premium Coach. It’s not just about getting to your destination—it’s about enjoying every moment of the journey.
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