Getting There

By Air: There are several flights a day between Mombasa and Nairobi and rates can be quite cheap. The flight is less than one hour long, which is about 9 hours quicker than any other form of transportation. If you have to money, flying is the best way to avoid the horrible road, or the long train ride.

By Rail: Going to and from Mombasa by the overnight train to Nairobi is very comfortable, but quite long. A second class ticket costs about KSh 2,300, which includes two meals and a bed in a four person compartment. Fare only (withouth bed sheets and meals) is just KSh 1,000. First class will run you KSh 3,100 with a few more minor perks (e.g. free drinking water) in a two person compartment.  Third class is for the Kenyans: about KSh 300 but seats only if you are so happy to find an empty one... The ride is about twelve hours, and expect delays.

By Bus: Many bus companies run several buses a day to and from Nairobi to Mombasa. If you’re leaving from Nairobi, most the bus offices are on Accra Road. In Mombasa, most offices are on Jomo Kenyatta Ave, near the Shibu Rd roundabout. Buses leave both in the morning and at night and the trip takes between 9-11 hours, depending on the condition of the road, the sanity of the driver, and how many times the bus breaks down. The fare is between KSh 600-1000 depending on the bus company.