How to Pay for the Likoni Ferry via M-Pesa in 2026: Updated Vehicle Toll Fees & Smart Gate Guide

The Likoni Ferry is one of Kenya’s most important transport crossings, linking Mombasa Island to Likoni and the wider South Coast in Kwale County. Every day, thousands of pedestrians, private cars, buses, trucks, and fuel tankers depend on the ferry to cross the Likoni Channel.

In 2026, ferry operations remain fully cashless, with M-Pesa as the official payment method. If you’re crossing for the first time—or just want to avoid delays—this guide explains exactly how to pay, the latest vehicle toll fees, how the smart gate system works, and what to do if something goes wrong.

Likoni Ferry Guide 2026: M-Pesa Paybill, Car Charges, Schedule, and Alternatives

Why Likoni Ferry Uses M-Pesa Payments

The ferry is operated by Kenya Ferry Services, which adopted cashless payments to improve efficiency and safety.

Using M-Pesa:

1. Reduces long queues
2. Eliminates cash handling
3. Prevents revenue loss
4. Speeds up vehicle boarding
5. Enables automatic smart gate access

Once payment is confirmed, the system links your transaction to your vehicle number plate, allowing the boarding barrier to open automatically.

M-Pesa Payment Options for Likoni Ferry

Option 1: Pay via USSD (*721#) – Guided & Beginner-Friendly

Step-by-Step USSD Payment

1. Dial *721#
2. Select vehicle type (tuk-tuk, car, motorbike, etc.).
3. Enter Number Plate
4. Select car state (empty, loaded, towing).
5. Payment Method (Select eCitizen) Recommended
6. Confirm the amount
7. Accept or Enter a Different M-Pesa Number (Another Person can Pay for You Instead)
8. Enter your M-Pesa PIN
9. Receive an SMS confirmation

Once you approach the boarding lane, the smart gate opens automatically.

Option 2: Pay via M-Pesa PayBill (4023233)—Faster for Regular Users

This option is quicker if you already know your vehicle charge.

PayBill Details

• Business Number: 4023233
• Account Number: Vehicle number plate
• Amount: Exact ferry charge

Steps for Using Paybill Number

1. Select Lipa na M-Pesa
2. Open M-Pesa
3. Choose PayBill
4. Enter 4023233
5. Enter your vehicle number plate
6. Enter the correct amount
7. Enter your M-Pesa PIN
8. Receive confirmation SMS

Your payment is instantly linked to your vehicle, and the barrier opens when you reach the gate.

Before paying, it helps to understand the different vehicle categories and ferry operations explained in Likoni Ferry Guide.

Updated Likoni Ferry Vehicle Toll Fees (2026)

Motorbikes, Carts & Bicycles

Vehicle Category	Charge (KES)
Empty motorbike/cart	50
Loaded motorbike/cart	100
Loaded bicycle	60

Private Cars & SUVs

Vehicle Category	Charge (KES)
Empty car	120
Loaded car	180
Empty 4×4 / SUV	150
Loaded 4×4 / SUV	210
4×4 with trailer	300

Pick-ups, Vans & Public Transport

Vehicle Category	Charge (KES)
Empty pickup/van	280
Bus	1100
4×4 with trailer	300

Fuel Vehicles, Trailers & Abnormal Loads

Vehicle Category	Charge (KES)
Empty trailer	7000
Empty fuel car	2115
Empty fuel trailer	5550
Loaded fuel trailer	7950
Loaded fuel tanker (lorry)	2900
Abnormal load	15959

Trucks (Length-Based Charges)

Vehicle Category	Empty (KES)	Loaded (KES)
5.5 metres	350	570
6 meters	400	620
7.5 metres	600	820
9.5 metres	850	1350
11 metres	1050	2500

How the Likoni Ferry Smart Gate System Works

After payment:

1. Your vehicle number plate is matched to the M-Pesa transaction
2. Cameras and sensors verify the vehicle at the lane
3. The barrier opens automatically
4. No paper tickets or cash receipts are required

This system significantly reduces delays, especially during peak hours.

What If You Enter the Wrong Number Plate?

If you accidentally enter the wrong number plate, your money is never lost.

Simply:

1. Inform the toll operator at the ferry terminal
2. Show your M-Pesa confirmation SMS
3. The operator will manually correct or enter the plate

Once verified, you will be cleared to board normally. Always keep your confirmation SMS until you complete the crossing.

Tips to Avoid Payment Delays

1. Double-check your vehicle number plate before confirming
2. Ensure the amount matches your vehicle category
3. Keep your phone turned on until you receive the confirmation SMS.
4. Save the PayBill number if you cross regularly
5. Avoid peak hours if possible

Is There an Alternative to the Likoni Ferry?

Yes. For drivers who prefer to avoid the ferry—especially heavy trucks and fuel tankers—the Dongo Kundu Bypass provides a road-based alternative connecting Mombasa Island to the South Coast.

The ferry remains the shortest route, while the bypass offers a longer but more predictable journey during peak congestion.

Final Thoughts

Paying for the Likoni Ferry via M-Pesa in 2026 is simple, fast, and secure. Whether you use the *USSD (721#) option or the PayBill (4023233) method, the smart gate system ensures smooth boarding once payment is confirmed.

By understanding the correct toll fees, payment steps, and backup procedures, you can avoid delays, save time, and cross the Likoni Channel with confidence.

FAQs