Naivasha’s Hospitality Sector at Full Capacity
Nairobi, Kenya- Naivasha is buzzing as the WRC Safari Rally gears up for action from March 20-23.
Hotels are fully booked, businesses are booming, and the entire town is bracing for an influx of over 100,000 visitors.
With the Service Park setup in full swing, rally teams are already docking their containers, ensuring everything is race-ready.
But it’s not just motorsport enthusiasts feeling the excitement—hoteliers, transport providers, and local businesses are cashing in on the rally’s economic windfall.
WRC Safari Rally KenyaThe WRC Safari Rally Kenya roars back to life from March 20–23, 2025, pushing drivers and machines to their limits across Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes.Video courtesy of WRC#MakeItKenya @SafariRallyWRC @moyasa_ke
Hotels Maxed Out as Demand Soars
The hospitality sector is working overtime to keep up with demand.
Hylise Hotel’s General Manager, John Mburu, says his team has ramped up staffing and resources to handle the high-traffic weekend.
It’s a similar story at Enashipai Resort and Spa, where Chief Engineer Shem Onyara confirmed all 135 rooms are taken, with rally teams and officials already checking in.
“The entire hotel is booked by drivers and co-drivers. We started receiving crew members early,” Onyara said.
Beyond hotels, Moi South Lake Road has transformed into a hospitality hotspot, with new establishments popping up every year.
High-end resorts like Sawela Lodge, Lake Naivasha Resort, and Sopa Lodge have become go-to accommodations for WRC teams and fans alike.
The impact of Safari Rally’s return to the WRC calendar extends beyond the tourism industry.
The event has fueled infrastructure improvements, including the recarpeting of Moi South Lake Road, making Naivasha even more accessible for future events.
“Before WRC, this road was in terrible condition. Now, it has transformed, attracting more businesses and hotels,” Onyara noted.
From boda boda operators ferrying fans between viewing points to food vendors, butchers, and bar owners, the rally weekend is a gold rush for small businesses.
Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei emphasized how the event lifts livelihoods across multiple sectors.
“Last year’s Safari Rally drew over 100,000 spectators, boosting businesses from small vendors to signature hotels. It’s also a chance to showcase Kenya’s stunning landscapes to millions of viewers worldwide,” she said.
With over 7,000 Ugandan spectators expected, the economic impact will be widespread.
Entertainment companies, DJs, dancers, and artists have also set up for what promises to be a high-energy, festival-like atmosphere.
As Naivasha preps for one of the biggest motorsport events of the year, one thing is clear—WRC Safari Rally isn’t just about racing.
It’s an economic powerhouse that fuels hospitality, small businesses, and tourism, leaving a lasting impact long after the dust settles.
