The World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally 2025 is set to take place from March 20 to March 23, promising adrenaline-pumping action while causing significant traffic disruptions along the busy Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.

With the rally’s climax scheduled in Naivasha, Nakuru County, the event is expected to attract thousands of spectators and rally enthusiasts, intensifying congestion on the crucial highway connecting Nairobi to western Kenya.

Safari Rally 2025 Overview

The WRC Safari Rally 2025 features a gruelling 383.10 km of competitive gravel stages, with the entire event covering a total distance of 1,381.92 km including road sections.

The ceremonial flag-off will take place on March 20 outside the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) and City Hall in Nairobi before the action shifts to the rugged terrains of Naivasha.

Given the influx of local and international fans, authorities are advising motorists to brace for delays along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.

However, several alternative routes offer viable options to avoid the expected gridlock.

Alternative Routes for Motorists

1. Thika-Gakoe-Magumu-Njabini-Engineer-Ol Kalou-Lanet Route
Motorists traveling from Central Kenya to Nakuru can bypass the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway by diverting at Thika and proceeding via the Safaricom Foundation route through Gakoe, Magumu, Njabini, Engineer, Ol Kalou, and Lanet.

This scenic route allows drivers to avoid the congested Naivasha stretch.

2. Naivasha-Njabini-Ol Kalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru Route
This alternative takes drivers from Naivasha through Njabini, Ol Kalou, and Dundori, finally merging onto Lanet before arriving in Nakuru.

It provides an effective detour for those already on the Naivasha side seeking to avoid the main highway bottleneck.

3. Flyover-Njabini-Ol Kalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru Route
Starting from Flyover, this path navigates through Njabini, Ol Kalou, and Dundori, ultimately connecting to Lanet and Nakuru.

It is an ideal route for travelers coming from the Flyover area looking to bypass rally-related congestion.

4. Ngong-Suswa-Narok-Mau Narok-Nakuru Highway
Motorists can also opt for the Ngong-Suswa-Narok route, which detours through Mau Narok before connecting back to the Nakuru Highway.

This longer but less congested path is suitable for those coming from the southern outskirts of Nairobi.

Traffic Management and Safety Advisory

Authorities are urging motorists to plan their journeys in advance and remain vigilant for temporary road closures around Naivasha.

Safety measures will be heightened throughout the event, with police and traffic marshals deployed to manage the flow and ensure public safety.

For spectators, designated viewing areas will be established to ensure minimal disruption to regular traffic while allowing fans to experience the thrill of one of the world’s most challenging rally circuits.

Stay tuned for live updates on the WRC Safari Rally 2025 as the world’s best drivers tackle Kenya’s iconic terrain.