Naivasha – Thursday, 20th March 2025: Thousands of motorsport fans from across East Africa have descended on Kenya for the adrenaline-fueled 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, which kicked off today.
An estimated 30,000 fans from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and the broader East African Community (EAC) are expected to flood Naivasha and its surroundings, significantly boosting tourism and hospitality businesses in the region.
A Thrilling Rally Experience for East African Fans
Thanks to a strategic campaign by the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), rally lovers from Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda arrived in Kenya via branded buses, ensuring a seamless and exciting travel experience.
“I absolutely love the way Kenya organizes the rally stages and spectator sections. The security is also top-notch. After the event, I plan to visit Mombasa’s beautiful beaches and sample more of Kenya’s famous hospitality,” said Henry Kimbugwe, a Ugandan motorsports enthusiast.
Tanzanian rally fan David Matete echoed these sentiments:
“I am very excited and happy to be here because of the great ambiance and energy of the Kenyan people. We have already seen so much – the beauty of Kenya, the animals, the delicious food. The accommodation has been fantastic. I am looking forward to seeing my favorite drivers compete, as well as more of Kenya’s incredible wildlife.”
Regional Tourism on the Rise
The East African region continues to drive growth in Kenya’s tourism sector, fueled by increased regional integration and easier cross-border travel.
According to the 2024 Tourism Performance Report, Uganda and Tanzania were among Kenya’s top five source markets, contributing over 400,000 visitor arrivals each. Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Burundi also posted impressive double-digit growth figures.
Many rally fans expressed their desire to extend their stay beyond the event to explore more of Kenya’s renowned attractions.
Sheila Namayanja, another motorsport enthusiast, shared:
“I am here in Kenya for the World Rally Championship, and I love the cool, welcoming, and hospitable Kenyan people. After the rally, I want to visit game parks, mountains, rivers, and other places that Kenya has to offer. I want to do more research and learn about this incredible country.”
Economic Boost for Naivasha and Beyond
The influx of visitors has injected fresh energy into Naivasha’s economy, with hotels and lodges fully booked and local businesses enjoying increased foot traffic. The heightened demand has led to new hospitality offerings, ensuring the region can accommodate the growing number of visitors.
Beyond hospitality, small businesses, food vendors, and transport operators are experiencing a surge in revenue, demonstrating the far-reaching economic impact of the WRC Safari Rally.
WRC Safari Rally: A Global Spectacle
As the third round of the FIA World Rally Championship, the WRC Safari Rally continues to draw a massive global audience. With over 120 million viewers across 70 countries tuning in via 43 international broadcasters, Kenya remains at the center of global motorsport action.
For rally fans attending the event, Ticket Baze provides seamless ticketing solutions, ensuring smooth access to all rally stages. With a user-friendly online booking system, fans can secure their passes with ease, making their experience at the WRC Safari Rally unforgettable.
FAQs
1. What is the WRC Safari Rally?
The WRC Safari Rally is a premier motorsport event held in Kenya, attracting top drivers from around the world to compete on rugged African terrains.
2. How many people are expected at the 2025 WRC Safari Rally?
An estimated 30,000 fans from across East Africa and thousands more from around the world are expected to attend.
3. How has the rally impacted tourism and the local economy?
The event has significantly boosted Kenya’s tourism sector, with increased hotel bookings, higher visitor numbers, and business growth in Naivasha and beyond.
4. How can I get tickets for the WRC Safari Rally?
You can purchase tickets conveniently through Ticket Baze, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
5. What other attractions can visitors explore in Kenya after the rally?
Fans can visit Kenya’s famous game parks, beaches, mountains, and cultural sites to extend their adventure beyond the rally.