Passengers using the Kisumu Safari Train will now be compelled to readjust their travelling schedules following the discontinuation of extra trips introduced during the festive season.
In a statement on Friday, January 17, 2025, Kenya Railways announced that the train had reverted to the normal schedule. The train will now leave Nairobi every Friday and then make a return trip every Sunday.
“We wish to inform our esteemed customers that the Kisumu Safari Train has reverted to the normal weekly schedule. The train will depart from Nairobi Central Station for Kisumu every Friday at 5:30 PM and make its return trip from Kisumu to Nairobi every Sunday at 6:00 PM,” Kenya Railways informed its users.
Additional trips
During the festive season, Kenya Railways increased the trips allowing the trains to depart Nairobi on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 4 pm.
The train made return trips to Nairobi from the Kisumu Railway Station on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 6:30 pm.
Kenya Railways attributed the decision to increase the trips to a surge in demand during the 2024 December period which was coupled with heavy gridlock along the Nairobi- Nakuru Highway, compelling commuters to seek alternative means of transport.
However, in a notice, Kenya Railways discontinued the service and resumed normal operations. This was attributed to reduced passenger traffic.
“Please note that the additional seasonal trips introduced for the festive period have now ceased. We thank you for choosing Kenya Railways and look forward to serving you,” Kenya Railways added.
Review the new Kisumu Safari train schedule below for a smooth ride. The trains operates every Friday to Kisumu and returns to Nairobi every Sunday. #Kisumu #travel #Twendesafari pic.twitter.com/DGzMQ5nkEM
— Kenya Railways (@KenyaRailways_) January 17, 2025
During the peak season, Kenya Railways also introduces more coaches to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) trains plying the Nairobi- Mombasa route. However, during off-peak seasons, the additional locomotives are detached.
