Mombasa Railway Station: The Coastal Gateway of Kenya's Iron Legacy
History African@africanhistory
12 days ago
At the threshold of Kenya’s historic coast lies the Mombasa Railway Station—once the starting point of a colonial dream and now a symbol of national transformation. Originally part of the Kenya-Uganda Railway (infamously nicknamed the "Lunatic Express"), this station dates back to the early 1900s, built by the British to link the Indian Ocean to the interior, a monumental engineering feat through valleys, savannahs, and escarpments.
The old station on Station Road has a simple colonial design—arched entryways, high ceilings, and rusted rail tracks that whisper tales of labor, trade, and empire. It was through these tracks that goods like ivory, coffee, and tea flowed to the coast, and along which thousands of indentured Indian laborers helped forge East Africa’s modern transport system.
Today, just a short distance away, the modern Mombasa Terminus near Miritini hosts the high-speed Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), offering a sleek, air-conditioned ride to Nairobi. The contrast between old and new symbolizes Kenya’s journey from colonial infrastructure to sovereign innovation.
Tourist Tips:
History lovers should visit the old station for a sense of Mombasa’s colonial past (access may be limited, but it’s worth viewing).
For travel, use the SGR for a scenic, comfortable, and secure ride between Mombasa and Nairobi.
Arrive at Miritini station early—security and boarding procedures are strict.
Don’t forget to enjoy views of Tsavo from the train—it’s one of the best inland wildlife experiences from a railcar.
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Photo Credit: Expat Medium
9 days ago
