Gone are the days of the slow, uncomfortable, and bread-shaped Akamba, Tawfiq, and Coastline Buses.
Changing tastes among consumers and technological advancements have forced players in the transport sector to keep up.
Moreover, the arrival of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), which was more affordable and offered better services, meant that long-distance bus companies had to evolve else they would soon be out of business.
Most of them capitalized on technological trends, introducing sleeker buses, comfortable seats, and luxurious amenities for that VIP feel.
In this article, WoK looks at some of the modern bus companies that ply the Nairobi-Mombasa route:
Modern Coast
Modern Coast is a luxury coach company operating in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. It is one of the most recognized luxury coaches in Kenya. Their tagline ‘Travel in style’ has earned them a cult-like customer base.
Modern coast buses have a variety of luxury features, such as on-board Wi-Fi, reclining seats, air conditioning, and entertainment systems.
The seats, which feature comfortable armrests, have plenty of legroom to ensure customers are relaxed and comfortable. Their schedules are flexible, with offices in major towns of Kenya.
Fares range depending on whether the customer travels on VIP class, First Class, or Business class.
Mash Poa
Mash East Africa is a long-distance bus company with an emphasis on luxurious travel. They offer affordable, luxurious, and punctual bus services, covering multiple routes in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
They are known for their convenience and comfortable travel experience, making them a popular choice for travelers in East Africa. The Mombasa-based company owns a fleet of luxurious buses, including the Scania A 80.
The buses feature a first-class sitting section in the front and a business-class section at the back. They are named Mash Cool (have air conditioning) and Mash Poa (lack air conditioning).
The buses come with reclining seats, charging sockets, audiovisual entertainment, and free drinks.
Tahmeed Express
Earlier this year, Tahmeed Express expanded its fleet to over 60 with the addition of 9 new Scania F360 luxury buses. These have a capacity of 50 passengers each, making Tahmeed one of the largest bus companies in Kenya.
Tahmeed’s routes span across East Africa with destinations in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and Arusha. The company has positioned itself as a comfortable and affordable travel option.
Their buses feature an air conditioning system, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets to ensure maximum comfortability for travelers.
In 2017, Tahmeed became the first long-distance bus company to offer two-in-one seat designs fitted with air conditioners in its VIP buses. The 12 VIP buses allowed passengers to select preferred music videos with their custom-made screens fitted on seats.
Dreamline Coaches
According to The Star, Dreamline company was among the pioneers of modern travel in Kenya. Their fleet of buses includes the China-made Youtong, fitted with Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, bus pads, air conditioning, a dispenser, and a fridge.
The company also has Scania buses, which feature automated gear-changing systems to reduce the driver’s fatigue — a factor that has been cited by NTSA as a major contributor to accidents.
Travelers have also commended their affordability. According to their website, customers receive redeemable credit during promotional periods.
Simba Coaches
Simba Coaches is among the most popular and consistent long-distance buses connecting Mombasa to major towns in Kenya. Headquartered in Nairobi, the company was established in 2004 with 20 Isuzu buses.
Their trademark bus is the Scania Golden Dragon, known for its speed and comfort. The buses feature red carpets and reclining seats for that VIP treatment. They also have big LCD entertainment screens interspaced within the bus for maximum comfort.
Simba’s booking offices are distributed across the country. Their area of operations includes other East African countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia.
Bus Car
Bus car is an intercity Bus company linking Nairobi with major cities in Kenya. They have been in operation in Kenya for close to a decade.
Most of their buses are of the Scania model. They feature two travel classes: First class (Cinemax zone) and VIP class (Live View Zone). The Cinemax section features 15 seats arranged in theatre mode, an LCD screen, curtains, and a big dynamic speaker to enhance the 3D view.
The company has a mobile app for fast and secure booking. Their offices are located in Kitale, Busia, and Malindi. Their route also extends to Jinja, Kigali, and Kampala.
