The Kisumu Safari Train has resumed operations for the festive season, offering travelers a rail option between Nairobi and Kisumu from December 19, 2025, to January 12, 2026, according to schedules released by Kenya Railways.
Posters shared by the corporation on Wednesday show the train departing Nairobi Central Railway Station at 5:30pm on select dates, arriving in Kisumu at approximately 6:30am the following day.
Return trips from Kisumu to Nairobi depart at 6:30pm and arrive the next morning at 8am.
Kenya Railways said tickets are available at Nairobi Central Railway Station.
“Enjoy easy travel and that classic rail magic as you journey from Nairobi to Kisumu. Seats are now available— book early and ride the journey again,” KR said.
The schedule lists 10 trips from Nairobi and 10 return journeys over the festive period, with travel dates aligned to holiday demand.
Travel days from Nairobi include December 19, 22, 24, 26, 29, and 31, 2025, and January 2, 5, 7, and 9, 2026.
Departures from Kisumu are scheduled for December 21, 23, 25, 28, and 30, 2025, and January 1, 4, 6, 8, and 11, 2026.
Fare for first class is indicated at Sh2,400, while economy class tickets cost Sh900.
The posters outline the route, which passes through Nairobi Central, Nairobi Terminus, Maai Mahiu and Kisumu stations.
The seasonal service, popular with holiday travelers visiting western Kenya, provides an alternative to road travel at a time when major highways experience increased congestion.
The night journey also allows passengers to wake up at their destination after an overnight ride.
The reintroduction of the train service comes amid an expected upswing in festive movement.
Transport agencies have been urging motorists and passengers to exercise caution during what is typically a high-risk travel period.
Kenya Railways has provided multiple lines for enquiries, including numbers ending 02558, 69759, 05523, 907000, and others displayed on the posters.
Travellers are encouraged to book early due to expected demand over Christmas and New Year.
The Kisumu Safari Train, which has been revived seasonally over recent years, continues to draw nostalgic appeal for travelers seeking scenic views and slower-paced journeys across the Rift Valley and into the lakeside region of Kisumu.
This comes shortly after the cooperation introduced an additional passenger train on the Nairobi–Mombasa route to accommodate the surge in travelers during the festive season.
On December 2, Kenya Railways announced that the train will operate from December 8, 2025, to January 5, 2026.
“Travelling to Mombasa or Nairobi this festive season? We’ve got you covered. An additional Madaraka Express Passenger Service will operate daily from December 8, 2025 to January 5, 2026, giving you more flexibility and convenience for your holiday travel,” KR said.
“Avoid the rush and enjoy a smooth, reliable journey. Book your seat early via http://metickets.co.ke, dial *639#, or visit any SGR station countrywide.”
The additional train departs Nairobi at 9:40am, arrives in Voi at 1:35pm and proceeds to Mombasa where it arrives at 3:55pm.
The departure journey from Mombasa is at 4:30pm, stop in Voi at 6:15pm and arrives in Nairobi at 10:55 pm.
by SHARON MWENDE
