Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta flags off the inaugural Nairobi-Suswa Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) line constructed by the Chinese Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and financed by the Chinese government, on October 16, 2019, in Nairobi. SIMON MAINA / AFP

NNA News - Kenya's Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) is reshaping tourism by making it easier for visitors to travel between the country's coastline, wildlife destinations and capital, while boosting local economies and strengthening regional connectivity.

The Chinese-built railway has transformed the journey to Tsavo National Park, allowing travellers to combine beach holidays, wildlife safaris and city visits in a single itinerary. For 17-year-old Indian student Ali Khan, the railway became part of the adventure during a 21-day youth camp across Kenya. "I've already recommended the SGR to many friends. It's so convenient, and the scenery is remarkable," he said while travelling from Voi to Nairobi after visiting Tsavo National Park.

His experience reflects a growing trend among domestic and international tourists choosing rail over road travel. Before the railway opened, visitors often spent several hours travelling by road between Nairobi, Mombasa and Tsavo National Park. Today, travellers can reach Voi by train before midday and still have time for an afternoon safari.

Krism Kalisa, a safari guide with 25 years' experience at Tsavo National Park, said the railway has become a popular transport option for visitors. "It's very comfortable and reliable. The train always arrives on time. Some guests spend just one night before taking the train back to Nairobi," Kalisa said.

Hotels and lodges near the park have also adapted their services around the railway schedule. Lameck Onsongo, a receptionist at a lodge near Tsavo East National Park, said the railway has significantly improved accessibility. "The SGR has significantly shortened travel time. It's clean, comfortable and relaxing," Onsongo said.

Located about 15 minutes from Voi Station, the lodge now promotes its proximity to the railway as part of its tourism offering. Beyond tourism, local leaders say the railway has transformed Voi's economy. Khamis Chome Abdi, Member of Parliament for Voi Constituency, said the project generated employment during construction and continues to support business growth through improved transport links. "The opportunities started during construction. Many people improved their lives even before the trains began running," Abdi said.

He added that the railway has made travel more predictable for passengers and enabled traders to complete same-day business trips between Voi and Mombasa. According to Abdi, improved roads, housing developments, hotels and water infrastructure have also emerged around the station since the railway began operations. Local hospitality operators estimate visitor numbers have increased by about 40 percent, driven largely by domestic tourism.

Former Taita Taveta County Assembly member Omar Ahmed said the railway has transformed Voi from a highway stop into an important tourism gateway. "Tourists no longer have to drive all the way from Nairobi or Mombasa. They simply arrive here by train, and safari vehicles pick them up at the station," he said.

Looking ahead, Abdi said extending the railway to Uganda and eventually linking more East African countries could further strengthen trade, tourism and regional integration. "The future is connectivity. Africa should connect its economies and build a larger regional market," he said.

As Kenya continues expanding its transport infrastructure, the railway is increasingly becoming more than a passenger service. For many visitors, it has become an integral part of experiencing the country's landscapes, wildlife and tourism attractions.