The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has provided alternative routes as the country prepares for the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally 2025 scheduled between the 20th and 23rd of March in Kenya.
With its climax in Naivasha, Nakuru County, the rally is expected to cause traffic disruptions along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.
“The World Rally Championship is zooming into town bringing excitement and high-speed action to our roads. To keep you moving smoothly, we have mapped out alternative routes to help you avoid traffic congestion,” KENHA said.
KeNHA’s four alternative roads for motorists travelling from Nairobi are as follows:
1. The scenic route running from Nairobi – Rironi – Flyover (Magumu) -Njabini – Ol Kalou – Dundori – Lanet.
2. Adventure route from Nairobi – Rironi – Naivasha -Engineer – Ol Kalou – Dundori – Lanet.
3. The Thika Trail from Nairobi – Thika – Magumu -Ol Kalou – Dundori – Lanet.
4. The Suswa Shortcut from Nairobi – Ngong town – Kibiko – Suswa Watch out for the gravel stretch.
“Drive safely, observe speed limits, and stay alert on the road,” KeNHA added.
WRC 2025 features a challenging route primarily centred around Naivasha, with the ceremonial start in Nairobi.
The rally spans 383.10 km of competitive gravel stages, with a total distance including road sections of 1,381.92 kilometers.
WRC 2025 commences on March 20 with an official flag-off that will take place outside the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) and City Hall.
Safari Rally 2025 Stages
SS1 – Super Special Stage Kasarani (4.76km)
This dual-lane, head-to-head stage at Kasarani Stadium will run in reverse direction compared to previous years.
Two cars will race side by side on the compact, mixed-surface track, setting the tone for the rally in front of thousands of spectators.
SS2/17 – Mzabibu (8.15km)
This is a brand-new stage set in the Morendat Farm vineyards designed to offer great viewing points just 10km from Naivasha town.
SS3/7 – Camp Moran (32.20km)
The Camp Moran is a new addition for 2025 and a classic Safari Rally test, combining narrow, technical tracks, fast dips, jumps, and rocky outcrops. Camp Moran runs along the cliffs of the Great Rift Valley.
SS4/8 – Loldia (19.11km)
This familiar stage now runs in reverse compared to previous years.
It cuts through lush green landscapes before transitioning into fast, rolling plains.
The twisty nature of Loldia rewards technical driving, while the new direction presents fresh challenges.
SS5/9 – Geothermal (13.12km)
A short but high-speed blast through the Olkaria Geothermal fields, this stage retains the same direction as 2024 but with a new start location on Tarmac for better traction.
Also Read: Why Ruto Wants Private Sector to Takeover WRC Safari Rally
Other Routes
SS6/10 – Kedong (15.10km)
Although shortened for 2025, Kedong still retains its famous Miti Mbili jump and sections of deep fesh-fesh sand that will test both car reliability and driver stamina.
The reversed route adds a fresh challenge to this fan-favorite stage.
SS11/14 – Sleeping Warrior (26.88km)
Now the first stage on Saturday, Sleeping Warrior runs early in the day, potentially with morning mist and low sun adding an extra test of visibility.
SS12/15 – Elmenteita (17.31km)
This stage follows the shores of Lake Elmenteita before cutting across the open grasslands of Soysambu Conservancy.
It runs in reverse direction for 2025 and will change grip levels to keep crews on their toes.
SS13/16 – Soysambu (29.32km)
A long and demanding test, Soysambu combines tight, twisty sections with high-speed open straights, running in reverse for the first time.
The stage will again feature a major spectator zone near the start, making it a key viewing location.
SS18/20 – Oserengoni (18.33km)
One of the most scenic stages of the rally, Oserengoni winds through the private Oserengoni Conservancy, featuring twisty wooded sections, deceptive straights, and vast open plains. Wildlife is often spotted along the route, adding to its uniqueness.
SS19/21 – Hell’s Gate (10.53km, Wolf Power Stage)
Hell’s Gate will be the Wolf Power Stage – running over the same rugged tracks that have produced some of the most iconic images of the Safari Rally.
A new tweak for 2025 sees cars turn right near Fischer’s Tower instead of left, adding a new dynamic to the finishing stretch
Also Read: Expansion of Nairobi-Nakuru Highway Set To Begin
Hotels & Accommodation
Naivasha town is already witnessing a surge in hotel bookings since over 100,000 visitors will camp at the town during the event.
Some of the hotels spectators can book include Hylise Hotel, Enashipai Resort and Spa, Sawela Lodge, Lake Naivasha Resort and Sopa Lodge.
Other options include Fina Gardens Resort, Sweet Lake Resort, Montana Lodge and Osotua Luxury Resort.
Spectators can visit Home – Magical Kenya or other travel websites for detailed information about accommodations in Naivasha and Nakuru.
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