There are various ways of booking SGR, such as through the SGR USSD code, online, and in-person. If you’d like to learn how to book SGR by phone using the USSD code conveniently, here’s a complete on how to do it like a pro!
Whether you are on vacation in Kenya or a local traveler, transversing through Kenya is one of the most rewarding experiences. Kenya has some of the world’s breathtaking parks, mountains, and beaches.
If you plan a trip, there are various travel options, including flying, buses, taxis, and trains. Booking a train is one of the best ways to get around the country since you won’t have to deal with flat tires.
Beyond the convenience, using a train is also much safer and cheaper. But how do you book SGR?
How to Book SGR
If you want to book SGR, you have three options. First, you can use the online booking platform to book a ride on the SGR.
Apart from the online booking platform, you can also book SGR by visiting the nearest service station.
Another convenient and easy-to-use method is the USSD payment solution. The USSD payment solution allows you to book up to 10 tickets per transaction.
Our focus in this article is on the USSD payment method. So, read on to discover how to book SGR via phone.
Step-By-Step Guide For Buying SGR Tickets Through Your Phone
If you are wondering how the SGR USSD code booking method works, you have come to the right place.
The good thing with the USSD code is that you don’t necessarily need an internet connection or a smartphone.
Not only that, but you also don’t have to be tech-savvy to buy your SGR tickets. Without wasting time, let’s dive right in.
Step 1: Key in Your USSD Code
The SGR USSD code is *639#. Key in this code and dial. After that, a new prompt with the following instructions will appear:
Book KR Madaraka Express.
- Inter-county 8 AM
- Nairobi- Mombasa Express
- Mombasa- Nairobi Express
You will also see a helpline number, usually 0709388888. The inter-county train runs from 8 AM and stops in Athi River, Email, Kibwezi, Mtito Andei, Voi, Miaseny, and Mariakani stations.
It’s ideal for you if you will stop at any of these stations. On the other hand, the express trains are suitable for those who want to quickly travel from Nairobi to Mombasa or vice versa because they don’t make any stopovers. You can book the express trains at night or in the afternoon.
Step 2: Choose Your Departure Station
Once you book your preferred train by dialing the corresponding number, you will be asked where you are departing from. If you have indicated that you want to use the inter-county train, you will be given the following options:
- Nairobi Terminus
- Mombasa Terminus
- Athi River
- Emali
- Kibwezi
- Mtito Andei
- Voi
- Miaseny
- Mariakani
Choose your station by entering the corresponding number. For instance, choose 9 if you want to board the train at Mariakani.
If you had indicated you’d wish to book the express train, you will be prompted to pick your preferred departure time between 3:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
Step 3: Choose Your Destination
If you have chosen the inter-county train, you will be prompted to select your destination. This is where your journey will end.
Your destination will be in one of the stations we have discussed previously. If you book the express train, you will be asked to choose your preferred travel time.
Step 4: Choose Your Preferred Date to Travel
As mentioned earlier, you will be required to choose your preferred travel date after choosing your preferred departure time. Tickets are usually available 60 days in advance to help you find a ticket.
For example, if you are booking SGR on 4th August 2022, the tickets will be open up to 3rd September 2022. Once you pick your preferred travel period, you should choose the exact travel date.
Step 5: Choose Your Preferred Coach
The next prompt will request you to choose between first class and economy. You will also be shown the number of available seats in each coach.
In most cases, the economy class has more seats than first-class. So, book early to travel in style. First-class SGR prices are Kes 3,000 or $30, while economy-class SGR prices are Kes 1,000 or $10. So, what does SGR first class offer?
- More privacy since many seats face forward
- Less crowded
- Each seat has a foldable table and footrest
- More spacious washrooms
- More friendly to the disabled
Step 6: Indicate the Total Number of Passengers
After choosing your preferred coach, you will be prompted to enter the total number of adult passengers you will be traveling with.
Step 7: Enter the Total Number of Children
Once you indicate the total number of adult passengers, you will be prompted to enter the total number of children from 3 to 11 years. Children pay half the price. However, those above the age of 12 are charged an adult rate.
Step 8: Enter Passenger Details
You will then proceed to fill in passenger details. The screen will show you the total number of adults and children you will be traveling with and the ticket price.
You must fill in each passenger’s details if traveling as a group. When filling in their details, use their official names and ID numbers. Start with the passenger’s name, then gender, followed by the ID/ passport number and the country.
Just space and don’t use commas when entering the details. For example, John Doe M 12345678 Kenya
Remember to indicate their name, gender, guardian/ parent ID or passport number, country, and age when booking for children. For example, Mary Mary F 12345678 Kenya 6
Step 9: Confirm Your Details
After you input all the details, you will get a booking summary. The summary includes:
- Your preferred date of travel
- The departure and destination terminus
- Class option
- Total number of adult and child passengers
- Total ticket amount
Step 10: Pay
After confirming your correct details, you will be asked whether you want to pay now or later. If you decide to pay immediately, a prompt will appear asking you to enter your Mpesa PIN. After that, you get a confirmation message from SGR and Mpesa.
I have not received the confirmation message from SGR; what next?
In case the system fails to send the confirmation message, don’t fret. In such a case, you can use the Mpesa transaction message to get a ticket at the station before you depart.
Final Thoughts
Booking SGR using the SGR USSD code is not as difficult as many people will make you believe. Follow the steps discussed earlier, and you will be done in a few minutes.
