Best Buses From Nairobi to Mombasa

Buses are one of the many means of transport from Nairobi to Mombasa. Comparing them with trains between Mombasa and Nairobi, they are a better option for many passengers – considering factors such as comfort, pricing, punctuality, and convenience.

Buses vs Trains: Nairobi to Mombasa

Time

There are three daily trains from either city (8 am, 3 pm and 10 pm). These trains are best for tourists, families, big groups and ferroequinologists. However, if you are keen on keeping time, go for a bus. Unlike buses, which you board and alight at the city centers, long distances train stations in Kenya are located outside Nairobi and Mombasa. Passengers have to commute to and from these stations and a lot of time is wasted in the process.

Comfort

For economy class travelers, seats in most buses are more comfortable than those on trains. However, first-class coaches on the trains offer more luxury and comfort than what you get on buses.

Pricing

When it comes to pricing, Madaraka Express trains give you more value for money than buses from Nairobi to Mombasa.

Punctuality

Buses experience more delays compared to trains which are always on time. Traffic jams and road incidents affect the departure and arrival times of buses.

List of Buses from Nairobi to Mombasa

There are several bus companies offering travel services to Mombasa. These companies operate long-distance buses equipped with almost everything needed for a comfortable, safe, and on-time arrival. Some modern buses have amenities such as reclining seats, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and GPS tracking. If you are planning a memorable trip to the coast, below is a list of the best buses from Nairobi to Mombasa.

#1 Modern Coast

Modern Coast has some of the best buses from Nairobi to Mombasa. The luxury bus company operates in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda as well as Uganda. The company has the provision for the economy, business, and VIP-class services. Their buses are equipped with onboard amenities such as WIFI, Air conditioning, GPS tracking, and comfortable seats.

#2 Tahmeed Coach

Tahmeed Coach Bus is one of the most reliable and convenient long-distance buses company to Mombasa. The company has bus fleets operating in Kenya and across East African cities including Nairobi, Dar Es Salaam, and Kampala.

#3 Dreamline Coach

Dreamline is another popular choice for travelers to Mombasa. The company offers its clients great services and amenities. They have comfortable seats with enough leg space, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, charging ports, and a friendly crew.

#4 Coast Bus

Located along Accra road, Nairobi, Coast Bus is one of the oldest in the industry. The company has some of the best and most experienced bus crew. They are friendly and ensure that you reach Mombasa safely and on time.

#5 Mash Poa

Mash East Africa is one of the leading bus companies in Kenya and East Africa. They provide reliable, affordable, and luxurious bus services in Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda. The companies’ long-distance buses include Mash Poa and Mash Cool.

Other bus companies to Mombasa include; Bus Car, Transline Classic, Simba Coach, Guardian Coach, and Crown Bus.

Other Options

  1. Use a personal car and drive to Mombasa.
  2. Travel using SGR – Madaraka Express Trains.
  3. Fly to Mombasa.
  4. Travel using a Luxury Coach
  5. Use Ride Sharing Buses and Vans.
  6. Ride a motorcycle from Nairobi to Mombasa.

Frequently asked questions

Do you want to know more about traveling from Nairobi to Mombasa? We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions from our users such as:

Which are the best bus companies?

Modern Coast, Mash Poa, Tahmeed Coach, Coast Bus, Dreamline Express, and Bus Car are some of the best buses from Nairobi to Mombasa.

How much do tickets usually cost?

Bus ticket prices on this route start from Kshs 1,200 for the economy class and Kshs 2,000 for the VIP class.

How far is it from Nairobi to Mombasa?

The two cities are located at about 483Km from each other along the Mombasa Road.

Where do I catch the Nairobi to Mombasa bus from?

Buses are located along River Road and Accra Road in Nairobi Central.

Where does the Nairobi to Mombasa bus arrive?

Buses from Nairobi arrive at Mwembe Tayari in Mombasa. You can also alight at any destination along the route.

Where can I stay near Mombasa?

There are over 1000 hotels, resorts, and B&B’s available in Mombasa. Prices start at Kshs 1,000 per night.

How to book buses from Nairobi to Mombasa?

There are three ways of booking bus journeys in Kenya. They include;

  1. Visiting a local office for the bus company.
  2. Book your tickets from the company’s online portal.
  3. Book from a third-party online portal.

On average, buses take approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes to get from Nairobi to Mombasa. Their prices are affordable and you can travel at different times of the day. Explore their available options and enjoy your trip to the coast!

Read more: Railways of Africa.