NAIROBI, Kenya – Motorists heading to the annual Safari Rally Kenya 2026 have been warned to expect heavy traffic along major highways as thousands of fans travel to Naivasha and surrounding areas for the four-day motorsport spectacle running from March 12 to March 15.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) issued a traffic advisory on Wednesday, cautioning drivers about congestion on key roads linking Nairobi to the Great Rift Valley, particularly routes leading to Naivasha and Nakuru County, where most rally stages will take place.
According to the agency, the rally is expected to draw thousands of spectators from across Kenya and the wider East African region, many travelling by road to watch the high-octane competition at various viewing points around the Rift Valley.
KeNHA said the advisory is meant to ease anticipated congestion during the busy rally weekend and urged motorists to plan their journeys early and follow guidance from traffic officers.
The authority also warned truck drivers against parking along undesignated sections of highways, saying violators risk immediate arrest.
To help manage the expected traffic surge, the highways agency released several alternative routes for motorists travelling between Nairobi and Nakuru.
These include routes through Rironi, Magumu, Njambini, Ol Kalou and Dundori, as well as alternatives passing through Ngong, Suswa and Narok before reconnecting to Nakuru.
The rally, part of the global World Rally Championship calendar, will be based in Naivasha with competitive stages spread across the surrounding region.
The event marks the 74th edition of the iconic Safari Rally and is the third round of the 2026 championship season.
Authorities are urging motorists to observe traffic rules, avoid unnecessary stops along highways and cooperate with police and road marshals deployed to manage traffic flow during the rally weekend.
The Safari Rally has grown into one of Kenya’s biggest sporting attractions, drawing global rally teams, international visitors and thousands of local fans eager to witness the rugged competition across the Rift Valley’s gravel tracks.
