All Kenyans are expected to find it simpler to make reservations using the USSD technique because it is compatible with all phone kinds, including feature phones and “dumb” phones. Please be aware that only Safaricom subscribers can use this approach.
You can order up to ten tickets at a time using the USSD payment option. The benefit of using the USSD code is that neither a smartphone nor an internet connection are required. Additionally, purchasing SGR tickets does not require a high level of technological proficiency. Here is a step-by-step tutorial for ordering Madaraka Express tickets using USSD *639#.
Purchasing SGR Tickets via USSD
Please make sure you have enough airtime because the service is not free. Before you start, we advise that you have at least Ksh 20 in airtime. Additionally, it’s advised that you have enough funds in your M-PESA account to pay for the tickets you’re buying.
Step 1: Key in the USSD Code (*639#) from your phone
Step 2: Select your Departure Station
(Mombasa, Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Miaseny, Mariakani, Mtito Andei, Voi, or Nairobi)
Step 3: Select your Destination
(Nairobi, Voi, Mtito Andei, Mariakani, Miaseny, Kibwezi, Emali, Athi River, or Mombasa,)
Step 4: Choose your Preferred Date to Travel
Step 5: Choose your Preferred Coach (Economy Class or First class)
Step 6: Indicate the Total Number of Passengers
Step 7: Enter the Total Number of Children
Step 8: Enter Passenger Details
(Full name, Gender, ID/Passport number, and Nationality)
Step 9: Confirm your Details
Step 10: Pay via M-PESA
It should be noted that you can purchase a maximum of 5 tickets in a single transaction, 24/7, from the convenience of your home, workplace, or even while traveling. While group reservations for more than 20 passengers must be made nine (9) days prior to the departure date, single tickets can be purchased seven (7) days in advance along with a return ticket as long as it is within a (seven) 7-day window.