KENYA

The Lunatic Express no longer!

The Lunatic Express has been replaced by the Madaraka Express!

Previously, the old narrow-gauge Lunatic Express was the only way to travel overnight between Nairobi and Mombasa. However, with the help of China, it was replaced by a fast standard-gauge railway on 31st May 2017. The daytime passenger trains are called Madaraka Express and the journey between the two cities just takes four hours and 30 minutes, operating at up to 120 km/h (75 mph) and with 1.200 seats per train. Enjoy your journey with comfort and style and submerge yourself with the beautiful scenery of Kenya’s unique landscapes.

The railway passes through some of Kenya’s famed national parks and it is a great opportunity to spot some big game while you travel.

In total, the line is interposed by 79 bridges, two major stations, seven intermediate stations and 23 passing stations. Each station has been designed to blend in with the local environment, for instance, the Athi River Station is intended to mirror the nearby hills, while the stripped Miasenyi Station was inspired by zebras. 

The Inter-county train runs in the morning and makes stopovers in Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Voi, Miasenyi and Mariakani county stations, while the Express trains (afternoon & night) do not stop along the way during the course of the journey.

Image source: Michael Khateli from  bbc.co.uk