The Most Scenic Train Journeys in Kenya for 2025

Introduction

Train journeys offer a slower, more immersive way to experience the landscape of a country. In Kenya, the railway system has a rich history that spans from colonial times to modern-day developments. In 2025, train travel in Kenya is enjoying a resurgence as tourists seek unique ways to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites. From the bustling city of Nairobi to the coastal towns of Mombasa, Kenya’s train routes offer some of the most scenic vistas in East Africa.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the most scenic and iconic train journeys in Kenya, highlighting the routes, experiences, and key attractions that make them unforgettable.

The Madaraka Express: Nairobi to Mombasa

Overview: The Madaraka Express, part of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), is Kenya’s most famous and modern train route, linking the capital Nairobi to the coastal city of Mombasa. This journey covers over 470 kilometers, offering a unique way to explore Kenya’s varied landscapes, from savannah grasslands to coastal plains.
Scenic Highlights:
The Great Rift Valley: One of the most spectacular features of the Madaraka Express is the scenic journey through the Great Rift Valley. The train winds through rolling hills, deep valleys, and breathtaking escarpments, offering passengers panoramic views of one of the most geologically significant areas in the world.
Tsavo National Park: As the train passes through the vast Tsavo National Park, passengers can catch glimpses of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, and giraffes, all set against the backdrop of Kenya’s iconic red soil and wide-open spaces.
Coastal Beauty: As the train nears Mombasa, passengers are treated to views of the Indian Ocean and the coastal vegetation, providing a perfect contrast to the arid landscapes encountered earlier in the journey.
Travel Experience: The Madaraka Express is a modern and comfortable train, with both economy and first-class seating options. The air-conditioned carriages and onboard services ensure that passengers enjoy the journey in comfort while taking in the views.

The Nairobi to Nanyuki Line: A Historic Route

Overview: The Nairobi to Nanyuki line, part of the older Kenya Railways system, is a historic route that offers an enchanting travel experience, especially for those interested in history, culture, and nature. The train travels through the Central Highlands, passing through forested areas, small towns, and scenic farmland.
Scenic Highlights:
Aberdare Mountains: One of the standout features of this route is the breathtaking views of the Aberdare Mountain Range. As the train winds its way through this area, passengers can enjoy the cool climate, dense forests, and the occasional sighting of wildlife such as buffaloes and antelopes.
Equator Crossing: As the train travels north towards Nanyuki, it crosses the equator, offering passengers the opportunity to experience this geographical milestone. Many travelers stop to take photos and learn about the significance of the equator in both science and culture.
The Ngare Ndare Forest: Known for its pristine natural beauty, Ngare Ndare Forest offers glimpses of lush greenery and waterfalls along the journey, adding a serene element to the train ride.
Travel Experience: The Nairobi to Nanyuki train offers a more nostalgic, rustic experience compared to the modern Madaraka Express. The carriages have a charming, vintage feel, with wooden seats and open windows that allow passengers to fully immerse themselves in the surroundings.

The Kenya Railway Museum and Vintage Train Rides

Overview: For those interested in Kenya’s railway history, the Kenya Railway Museum in Nairobi offers a fascinating insight into the country’s colonial-era train routes. Visitors can explore the museum and also book vintage train rides that depart from Nairobi and offer a scenic trip to various nearby destinations.
Scenic Highlights:
Historical Landmarks: The vintage train rides take passengers through areas that were once part of the famous Uganda Railway, offering views of historical landmarks and remnants of the colonial railway infrastructure.
Rural Countryside: The train journeys through rural Kenya, passing through expansive farms, forests, and small villages that showcase the country’s agricultural heartland.
Travel Experience: The vintage trains are equipped with traditional carriages that reflect the charm of early 20th-century train travel, with open-air seating and authentic designs. The slower pace allows passengers to appreciate the beauty of Kenya’s countryside at a relaxed pace.

Conclusion
In 2025, Kenya’s train journeys offer some of the most scenic and enriching ways to experience the country’s landscapes and culture. Whether you’re traveling on the modern Madaraka Express or taking a nostalgic ride on the Nairobi to Nanyuki line, each route offers something unique for tourists. These train journeys are more than just transportation—they are an opportunity to relax, enjoy the views, and create lasting memories while exploring the stunning landscapes of Kenya.
Train travel in Kenya is on the rise, and the country’s scenic train routes are set to become even more popular as tourists look for eco-friendly, leisurely travel options that allow them to experience the best of Kenya at a relaxed pace.

References
Kenya Railways
Madaraka Express
Kenya Railway Museum
Nairobi to Nanyuki Train
The Great Rift Valley