The World Rally Championship (WRC) has confirmed that the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya will take place from March 12 to March 15, 2026, marking its 73rd edition. The rally will serve as the third round of the 2026 WRC season and will once again cement Kenya’s place on the global motorsport stage.
The rally will be headquartered in Naivasha, Nakuru County, with the ceremonial flag-off and opening Super Special Stage at Kasarani Grounds in Nairobi on March 12. Fans in the capital will get the first taste of action before the rally cars head to the challenging Naivasha terrain. Competitors are expected to cover more than 380 kilometers of timed stages over four days, navigating rocky tracks, muddy stretches, and water crossings that have made the Safari Rally famous as one of the toughest events on the WRC calendar.
The 2026 edition is expected to feature over 20 special stages, testing not just speed but endurance and strategy. With unpredictable weather and rough roads in the Great Rift Valley, the event promises thrilling moments for spectators both on the ground and watching globally.
The Safari Rally’s return to the WRC calendar has boosted tourism and local business in Nakuru County, attracting thousands of fans from across the world. Hotels, entertainment spots, and transport operators in Naivasha are already preparing for the economic and social benefits the rally brings each year. President William Ruto has expressed his support for the event, highlighting its role in promoting sports, tourism, and Kenya’s international profile.
Motorsport enthusiasts can expect a vibrant fan experience, with live viewing at Kasarani and select Naivasha spectator zones, alongside comprehensive global broadcast coverage showcasing Kenya’s iconic landscapes. The countdown to March 2026 is already on, as the country gears up for another unforgettable edition of the legendary Safari Rally.
