← Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon·3 nights

Nairobi to Mombasa by Rail: Three Nights on the Coast

A train to the coast, a transfer to a beach hotel and three slow nights before the journey back.

Duration3 nights
TransitMadaraka Express train from Nairobi to Mombasa (check the current booking timetable)
DepartsNairobi Terminus

After the Nairobi Marathon: Three Nights in Mombasa

The Route: Nairobi Terminus → Mombasa Terminus → Beach hotel → Mombasa Terminus → Nairobi Logistics: The train arrives at a terminus outside the city centre. Arrange onward transport in advance. Marathon Month: October Duration: 3 nights

Nairobi Terminus ──(Madaraka Express)──> Mombasa Terminus ──(transfer)──> Beach hotel (3 nights)
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Nairobi <──(train)── Mombasa Terminus <───────────────────────────────────────────┘

The race is on a Sunday, so a Monday train gives the legs one day to settle. Kenya Railways lists afternoon express, morning inter-county and night services, and its pages differ on the morning timing. Use the actual booking timetable when you buy.

October on the coast: warm and humid, with showers at times. Pack light clothing and a rain layer.

Nights One to Three: The Coast

Choose a hotel with a pool and meals on site, and keep the days easy. Skip anything strenuous. Ask your hotel to arrange the terminus transfer and agree the fare in advance. Check the FCDO regional advice for the coast before you book.

Luggage and Timing

Check the luggage allowance, and ask if your Nairobi hotel can hold bags for the return. Avoid a tight link between the train back and your flight.

Getting Home

Take the train back to Nairobi and fly from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Leave a generous margin, since traffic into the airport can be slow.