About Travel & Transport in Kenya
Kenya offers a diverse range of transport options, from budget-friendly buses to scenic train rides and quick flights. Whether you're heading to the coast, planning a safari, or visiting family upcountry, understanding your options saves you both time and money.
2026 has seen a surge in online booking platforms, making it easier than ever to secure tickets. The standard gauge railway continues to be a game-changer, while local airlines like JamboJet offer competitive fares that often rival road transport prices.
✈️ Flights — JamboJet & Kenya Airways
For speed and convenience, flying is the best option for long distances. JamboJet is Kenya's leading low-cost airline, while Kenya Airways (KQ) offers full-service flights with regional connectivity.
JamboJet (Jambojet)
- Routes: Nairobi (NBO) to Mombasa (MBA), Kisumu (KIS), Eldoret (EDL), Malindi (MYD), Lamu (LAU), and international to Entebbe (EBB) and Kigali (KGL).
- Average Price (NBO-MBA): KSh 4,500 – 6,000 (one-way with promo codes).
- Booking: www.jambojet.com
- Check-in: Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure.
Kenya Airways (KQ)
- Routes: Domestic (Nairobi to Kisumu, Mombasa, Eldoret, Malindi) and extensive international network.
- Booking: www.kenya-airways.com
✈️ Planning a trip?
ZangCash connects you with verified travel agents who can help you find the best flight deals and book your tickets hassle-free.
Get Expert Help Today →🚆 SGR Train — Madaraka Express
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is a modern railway system that connects Nairobi and Mombasa, with stops at major towns like Voi and Mtito Andei. The Madaraka Express offers comfortable, scenic, and reliable train travel.
SGR Schedule & Prices (2026)
| Route | Train | Departure | Arrival | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi → Mombasa | Madaraka Express (M1) | 8:00 AM | 1:20 PM | KSh 1,000 (Economy) |
| Mombasa → Nairobi | Madaraka Express (M2) | 8:00 AM | 1:20 PM | KSh 1,000 (Economy) |
| Nairobi → Mombasa | Madaraka Express (E1) | 2:00 PM | 7:20 PM | KSh 1,000 (Economy) |
| Mombasa → Nairobi | Madaraka Express (E2) | 2:00 PM | 7:20 PM | KSh 1,000 (Economy) |
First Class: KSh 3,000. Children (3-11 years): 50% discount.
How to Book SGR Online
- Visit the official SGR booking portal: metickets.krc.co.ke
- Create an account or log in.
- Select your route, date, and train class.
- Pay via M-Pesa or card.
Official SGR website: www.krc.co.ke
🚌 Luxury & Budget Buses
Bus travel is the most affordable way to get around Kenya, with numerous companies offering comfortable and safe journeys between major towns.
Top Bus Companies & Booking
| Bus Company | Popular Routes | Price (NBO-MBA) | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Coach | Nairobi, Kisumu, Kakamega, Mombasa | KSh 1,500 – 2,000 | easycoach.co.ke |
| ENA Coach | Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu | KSh 1,200 – 1,800 | enacoach.co.ke |
| Mash Poa | Nairobi, Mombasa, Malindi | KSh 1,300 – 1,900 | mashpoa.co.ke |
| Dreamline | Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret | KSh 1,400 – 2,000 | dreamline.co.ke |
| Guardian Angel | Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu | KSh 1,200 – 1,500 | guardianangel.co.ke |
| Buscar | Nairobi, Mombasa, Thika | KSh 1,000 – 1,500 | buscar.co.ke |
Prices vary based on season and booking time. Book online to secure the best rates.
🏞️ Tourist Attractions & Entrance Fees
Kenya is famous for its wildlife and natural beauty. Here are the entrance fees for some of the most popular attractions in Nairobi and beyond.
| Attraction | Citizen Fee (KSh) | Resident Fee (KSh) | Non-Resident Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi National Park | 430 | 1,030 | 43 |
| Giraffe Centre | 150 | 200 | 15 |
| Karura Forest | 100 | 200 | N/A |
| David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage | 500 | 500 | 15 |
| Nairobi Safari Walk | 300 | 600 | 20 |
Source: Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) & respective institutions. Fees subject to change.
🛂 Passports & Visas
Planning international travel? Here's what you need to know about passport applications, visa fees, and visa-free destinations for Kenyan citizens.
Passport Application
Apply for or renew your passport via the eCitizen portal: ecitizen.go.ke.
- Application Fee: KSh 4,550 (East African passport - 48 pages), KSh 7,050 (East African passport - 64 pages), KSh 9,550 (Ordinary passport - 66 pages).
- Processing Time: 10-15 working days.
- Tracking: Track your application status on the eCitizen portal.
Visa-Free Countries for Kenyans
As of 2026, Kenyan passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 70 countries worldwide. Popular destinations include:
- Africa: South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda.
- Asia: Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong (SAR), Philippines, Israel.
- Americas: Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, Bahamas.
- Europe: (Visa required for Schengen, but Ireland is visa-free for Kenyans until 2026).
Schengen Visa
Schengen visas are required for Kenyans traveling to most European countries. The standard fee is approximately €80 (approx. KSh 10,000). Apply at the embassy of the country you plan to visit first.
📊 Transport Comparison: Air vs. Rail vs. Bus
| Feature | ✈️ Air (JamboJet) | 🚆 Rail (SGR) | 🚌 Bus (ENA Coach) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (NBO-MBA) | KSh 4,500 – 6,000 | KSh 1,000 (Economy) | KSh 1,200 – 1,800 |
| Duration | ~1 hour | ~5 hours | ~8-10 hours |
| Comfort | High | High | Medium |
| Scenery | Limited | Excellent | Good |
| Booking | Online/App | Online/App | Online/App |
| Best For | Speed, Business | Scenic trips, Families | Budget travel |
🧮 Travel Cost Calculator
Calculate the estimated cost of your trip based on your preferred mode of transport and group size.
Total Estimated Cost: KSh 0
Approximate one-way costs per person. Does not include airport taxes or service fees.
📈 Most Popular Transport Options in Kenya
Source: Industry data & ZangCash analysis
🍩 Transport Mode Usage Distribution
Estimated usage based on market data
📊 Travel & Transport in Kenya — By the Numbers
🧠 Quiz: How Well Do You Know Kenya Travel?
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Written by: Ken Odhiambo
Reviewed by: Duke Bundi
Last updated:
Last reviewed:
Sources & Disclaimer: Information compiled from JamboJet, Kenya Airways, Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC), Easy Coach, ENA Coach, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and eCitizen. While we strive for accuracy, always verify details on official booking platforms. ZangCash is not affiliated with any transport provider or government agency.
🚀 Start Your Journey with ZangCash Today
Whether you're a traveler looking for the best deals, a business wanting to reach more customers, or an affiliate earning online — ZangCash connects you with verified opportunities across Kenya. Get paid via M-Pesa, just like thousands of Kenyans do every day.
Free to join. M-Pesa powered. Trusted by thousands.