Kisumu Safari Train: Your Festive Gateway to Lakeside Bliss from Just KSh900.
Kenya Railways brings back the beloved Kisumu Safari Train for the 2025-2026 festive season, operating from December 19, 2025, to January 12, 2026, as covered extensively by Kenya Times News.
This iconic overnight service from Nairobi to Kisumu not only tackles holiday traffic jams but also revives Kenya’s rich rail heritage, offering scenic Rift Valley views, family-friendly comfort, and affordable fares starting at KSh900 for economy class perfect for Christmas and New Year getaways to western Kenya.
The seasonal service is aimed at meeting increased travel demand as Kenyans move across the country during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
It provides a convenient travel option for passengers heading to western Kenya during the peak holiday season.
Comprehensive Schedule and Key Stops
Departures from Nairobi Central Railway Station kick off at 5:30pm on select dates: December 19, 22, 24, 26, 29, 31, 2025, and January 2, 5, 7, 9, 2026, arriving in Kisumu by 6:30am after a restful night aboard.
Return journeys from Kisumu depart at 6:30pm on December 21, 23, 25, 28, 30, 2025, and January 1, 4, 6, 8, 11, 2026, pulling into Nairobi around 8am.
Along the way, trains halt at vibrant stations like Nairobi Terminus, Maai Mahiu, Naivasha, Longonot, Limuru, and Nakuru, letting passengers soak in Kenya’s diverse landscapes from the Great Rift Valley to lush highlands.
The Kisumu Safari Train’s resumption occurs amid ongoing repairs to the Uplands Kijabe–Longonot Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) line, damaged by heavy April 2024 rains.
Flash floods and washaways in Mai Mahiu, Nakuru County, halted both freight and passenger services, including the Kisumu Safari Train.
Kenya Railways reported over 70% completion of rehab works in November, targeting full restoration by December with resilient upgrades.
Efforts include building multiple-cell culverts, stabilizing embankments, reconstructing drainage, and enhancing weather resistance.
Freight resumption will boost cargo to western Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan, strengthening Kenya’s regional trade hub statusAffordable Fares, Classes, and Booking Essentials.
Economy tickets are priced at KSh900, ideal for budget travelers, while first-class upgrades at KSh2,400 provide extra space and amenities for a premium experience.
Families, groups, and solo adventurers can book tickets directly at Nairobi Central Station, regional offices, or via Kenya Railways hotlines ending in 02558 or 907000 advance reservations are crucial amid high festive demand.
For enquiries and further information, passengers can contact Kenya Railways through the numbers 0115 102 558, 0115 169 759, 0793 005 523, 0709 907 000, or 0709 907 555.
This service complements other holiday rail options like the Madaraka Express to Mombasa, promoting safer, greener travel over risky highways during peak periods.
Beyond convenience, the Kisumu Safari Train boosts local economies in Kisumu by ferrying thousands for holiday reunions, cultural events, and lakeside festivities around Lake Victoria.
It embodies sustainable tourism with onboard dining, sleeping berths, and nostalgic vibes, reducing road accidents while connecting Kenyans to roots in Nyanza and beyond.
Whether chasing holiday cheer or exploring Kisumu’s markets and beaches, this train turns long trips into memorable adventures.