The village rush: Kenyans race to secure Christmas travel tickets

As the festive season draws near, long-distance bus companies are once again experiencing a surge in bookings, with Kenyans making travel arrangements to reunite with their families upcountry.

At major booking offices in Nairobi such as Easy Coach and Guardian Angel, travellers are already reserving seats for destinations across the country especially along the busy Western Kenya and Nyanza routes. For many, the December journey home remains a cherished tradition that marks the end of the year.

“We’ve started receiving many advance bookings as people prepare to travel home for Christmas,” says David Ogolla, an Easy Coach official.

“Some routes like Kisumu and Busia tend to fill up quickly every year around this time.”

For frequent village travellers, early booking has become an annual ritual meant to avoid last-minute hustle and fare hikes.
“Last year I waited until mid-December and couldn’t get a seat,” says John Barasa, a Nairobi resident heading to Kakamega.

“This time I’ve booked early to avoid the rush.”

Others are motivated by comfort and convenience.
“I’m traveling to Migori,” says a university student.

“When you book early, you choose your preferred bus and avoid inflated prices. By mid-December, fares almost double.”

But even as some Kenyans make travel plans, not everyone will be making the journey home this year due to the high cost of living. Increased prices on fuel, food, and transport has forced some to rethink their holiday traditions.

“I would have loved to travel to Kisii with my children, but honestly, it’s too expensive right now,” says Beatrice Achieng’, a casual worker in Nairobi.

“By the time you pay fares for everyone, buy food and gifts, it’s overwhelming. We’ll just celebrate Christmas here in the city.”

For such families, staying behind means saving money that would otherwise be spent on travel and festivities. A number of Kenyans are instead choosing to celebrate quietly or attend church services within their neighbourhoods.

Transport operators, meanwhile, expect demand to peak between December 18th and 24th;  the traditional travel window  when most people begin their journey home.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has urged travellers to plan early and prioritise safety as the festive season approaches.
“We encourage Kenyans to use licensed transport providers and avoid unroadworthy vehicles,” said an NTSA official.

“Every year we see accidents caused by fatigue, overloading, and speeding. Early planning helps reduce such risks.”

For millions, the December trip home remains a symbol of belonging, love, and reunion. But this year, amid economic pressures, that journey may not be possible for everyone, reminding many that the spirit of Christmas isn’t just about travel, but togetherness in whatever form it takes.