Madaraka Express (SGR Train) travelling through Kenya

(SGR) Madaraka Express Rail-to-Balloon Experience

A Seamless Rail-to-Balloon Safari Experience

The Madaraka Express (SGR Train) is a comfortable and convenient way to travel between Nairobi and Mombasa. This package is designed for travellers who want an easy connection from Emali Station to Amboseli for a sunrise balloon flight.

Nairobi → Emali: ~1.5 hours by train  •  Mombasa → Emali: ~4 hours by train

Important: Guests must book and pay for their Madaraka Express (SGR Train) tickets to Emali Station. We strongly recommend booking your train tickets in advance, as seat selection may be limited with last-minute bookings. Tickets can be reserved via the official Madaraka Express website: metickets.krc.co.ke. Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris (KBS) provides the private ground transfers from Emali Station to Amboseli for your balloon package.
Sunrise balloon safari in Kenya with Mount Kilimanjaro views across the border

Amboseli is in Kenya – Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania

Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris operates in Amboseli, Kenya. From Amboseli you enjoy some of the most iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, which is located just across the border in Tanzania.

Our balloon flights take place in Kenya, flying near the international border — offering spectacular sunrise views of Africa’s highest mountain from the Kenyan side.

This unique location lets you experience Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes while enjoying one of the best vantage points of Kilimanjaro.

The Perfect Kenya Journey

This Rail-to-Balloon Safari package is ideal for travellers combining Kenya’s coast (Mombasa), a classic Amboseli safari, and a sunrise balloon flight with views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Beach → Rail journey → Safari → Balloon flight → Kilimanjaro views — all within a smooth Kenya itinerary.

How it Works (Step by Step)

To keep your journey smooth, your balloon flight date and Amboseli accommodation should be coordinated. We recommend starting with availability, then securing your lodge, then booking your train tickets to Emali Station.

Step 1 – Check Availability with KBS +

Contact Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris (KBS) to confirm availability for your preferred sunrise flight date. Once we confirm your flight date, you can coordinate accommodation and train timings with confidence.

Hot air balloon at sunrise in Amboseli with Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance
Step 2 – Reserve Your Amboseli Accommodation +

Guests book and pay their Amboseli accommodation directly. Since balloon flights take place at sunrise, guests should arrive in Amboseli at least the day before their scheduled flight.

You’re welcome to stay one night or a few nights — your itinerary is entirely flexible.

Amboseli landscape with Mount Kilimanjaro views
Step 3 – Book the Madaraka Express (SGR Train) to Emali Station +

Guests book and pay for their Madaraka Express (SGR Train) tickets to Emali Station.

Official ticket website: Book Madaraka Express tickets

The train offers three service levels: Economy, First Class, and Premium. Premium is an excellent value for comfort and is a popular choice for travellers.

Need help booking from outside Kenya? Ask us — we can assist with SGR ticket booking if required.

Premium cabin seating inside the Madaraka Express SGR train
Step 4 – Private Pick-up at Emali Station +

KBS will meet your party at Emali Station and provide a private transfer to your Amboseli lodge. This is a dedicated vehicle for your group (up to 7 passengers).

Train travel times (approx.): Nairobi → Emali ~1.5 hours • Mombasa → Emali ~4 hours

Private transfer pick-up meeting guests at Emali SGR Station
Step 5 – Balloon Morning Transfers + Return to Emali +

On the morning of your flight, we collect you from your lodge for your sunrise balloon safari. After the flight and breakfast, we return you to your lodge.

On your departure day, we provide a private transfer back to Emali Station for your onward train journey.

Note: This package does not include safari game drives. Game drives are available upon request.

KBS transfer vehicle in Amboseli for guest pick-ups
Rail-to-safari journey concept showing train travel and balloon safari in Amboseli

Sample Itinerary

A simple example — you can stay longer in Amboseli if you wish.

Day 1

Madaraka Express (SGR Train) to Emali Station → private transfer to your Amboseli lodge.

Day 2

Sunrise balloon flight → return to lodge → relax or enjoy game drives (upon request).

Day 3

Private transfer to Emali Station → Madaraka Express onward travel.

Flexible

Stay 1 night or multiple nights in Amboseli — we’ll coordinate your transfers accordingly.

Complete Experience Pricing

This is a complete experience for guests travelling via Madaraka Express (SGR Train), including private transfers from Emali Station and a sunrise balloon flight with Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris (KBS).

Rail-to-Balloon Safari Experience (Balloon + Transfers)
International Adult
USD $550 *pp
Resident/Citizen Adult
USD $495 *pp
International Child (4–11)
USD $350 *pp
Resident/Citizen Child (4–11)
USD $295 *pp

*T & C’s apply. All prices are in USD.

Included

  • Sunrise Balloon Safari
  • Private transfers from Emali Station (arrival & departure)
  • All balloon morning transfers (lodge ↔ balloon camp)

Not Included

  • Madaraka Express (SGR Train) tickets to Emali Station (guests book and pay separately)
  • Amboseli accommodation (guests book and pay separately)
  • Safari game drives (additional charge)

Important Notes

Guests must book and pay for their Madaraka Express (SGR Train) tickets to Emali Station.

Balloon flights operate at sunrise, so guests should arrive in Amboseli at least the day prior to their flight.

Exact pick-up times are confirmed in advance based on your lodge location and train schedule.

KBS team member speaking with guests

Enquiries & Bookings

Planning a rail-to-balloon safari journey? Contact Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris (KBS) to check balloon availability and coordinate your Emali station transfers.

Email: info@airkbs.com
WhatsApp / Phone: +254 (0)712 717171

Base Address:
KIMANA GATE ROAD
AMBOSELI
KENYA

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