WRC Safari Rally 2026: Best Alternative Routes to Avoid Nairobi–Naivasha Traffic

The rally, scheduled to run from March 12 to March 15, 2026, is expected to attract thousands of fans, teams, and support crews, significantly affecting movement along major highways connecting Nairobi to Naivasha and other parts of the Rift Valley.

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has officially warned of heavy traffic and advised motorists—especially truck drivers—to use designated alternative routes to avoid delays and possible enforcement action.

Officials have emphasised that the advisory is aimed at managing congestion and ensuring smooth movement during one of Kenya’s biggest international sporting events.

Why Traffic Is Expected to Be Heavy

The Safari Rally is the third round of the 2026 World Rally Championship (WRC) and is being staged in Naivasha, Nakuru County, with the rally base in the area.

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The event features 20 special stages covering more than 350 kilometres of competitive distance, meaning large sections of road infrastructure around Naivasha and surrounding regions will experience high activity levels.

Authorities say congestion is expected along key routes leading to Naivasha, particularly the Nairobi–Naivasha highway corridor, as fans travel to viewing points across the region.

Official Alternative Rally Routes

To reduce gridlock, KeNHA has listed several diversion routes for motorists travelling between Nairobi and Nakuru/Naivasha.

According to official advisories, the main alternative routes include:

1. The Scenic Route

Nairobi – Rironi – Flyover (Magumu) – Njambini – Ol Kalou – Dundori – Lanet.

2. The Adventure Route

Nairobi – Rironi – Naivasha – Engineer – Olkalou – Dundori – Lanet.

3. The Thika Trail

Nairobi – Thika – Magumu – Ol Kalou – Dundori – Lanet.

4. The Suswa Shortcut

Nairobi – Ngong – Suswa – Narok – Nakuru Mau Summit.

These routes are designed to help motorists bypass rally-related congestion and maintain smoother traffic flow during the event period.

KeNHA has reiterated that the directives will remain in force throughout the rally weekend, and motorists are encouraged to plan journeys in advance.

Additional Traffic Measures

Beyond alternative routes, authorities have also issued strict warnings to truck drivers against parking along unauthorised sections of highways.

Violators risk immediate arrest as part of efforts to keep traffic moving efficiently.

This enforcement comes as thousands of spectators are expected to travel to Naivasha and Nakuru, increasing pressure on transport corridors.

Impact on Nairobi Commuters

With Nairobi serving as the starting point of the rally, traffic adjustments are expected to affect major entry and exit roads in and out of the city.

Motorists are advised to:

Use designated diversion routes.

Avoid unnecessary travel toward rally hotspots.

Follow official traffic updates.

Allow extra travel time.

Authorities say the measures are necessary to balance public movement with the smooth running of the international sporting event.