WRC Safari Rally: Kenya to Host Over 10,000 Regional Visitors During Motorsport Extravaganza

Kenya expects over 10,000 regional visitors during the World Rally Championship Safari Rally scheduled for March 12-15 in Naivasha, Nakuru County.

Some visitors from Uganda are already at the Kenyan coast for excursions. The leader of the Uganda Rally Hunters, Emmanuel Mugaga, noted that the rally presented an opportunity for them to explore Kenya’s attractions beyond the sport.

“We are incorporating tourism into our rally experience this year. We have been to Diani Beach, explored the coral reefs, and sampled prawns and shrimps, as well as the vibrant nightlife at the coast,” said Mugaga.

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The CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board, June Chepkemei, disclosed that more than 10,000 fans from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ethiopia are expected to join local and international fans for the 2026 Safari Rally edition.

“Our East African neighbours represent a vital and high-potential source market for Kenya. By integrating events like the WRC Safari Rally with diverse regional attractions such as Mombasa, we are creating compelling travel itineraries that cater to a broader range of interests,” said Chepkemei.

“This strategic approach not only boosts visitor arrivals but also strengthens regional ties and promotes shared prosperity through tourism.”

She further revealed that a group of Ugandan visitors who had spent the last four days touring the Kenyan coast had been flagged off in Mombasa to begin their road trip to Naivasha for the rally.

“This morning we flagged off a group of Ugandan visitors from Mombasa who have been touring the coast for the past four days, including Kilifi and Kwale County. Their journey to Naivasha highlights the multi-destination travel experience Kenya is promoting,” she added.

“We encourage our regional visitors to immerse themselves in the unique culture, pristine beaches, and historical sites of our coastal gem before heading to Naivasha for the rally.”

The East African region continues to be a key source market for Kenya’s tourism sector, recording consistent growth in visitor arrivals. Last year, the region contributed 568,264 tourists, with Uganda accounting for 41 percent of the arrivals at 238,595 visitors, representing 5.78 percent year-on-year growth.

Beyond the thrill of the rally, the event delivers tangible socio-economic benefits by stimulating growth in the tourism and hospitality sectors while creating opportunities for hotels, small businesses, and local entrepreneurs in Naivasha, Nakuru, and across the country.