WRC Safari 2026 Entry Released

The fabled Safari Rally Kenya enters a new era for WRC 2026, moving from the capital to a concentrated, high-intensity challenge based exclusively in the Great Rift Valley.

Featuring a streamlined schedule with 20 special stages over four days, the 2026 Safari will require full commitment from the very first kilometre. From the harsh "fesh-fesh" sand of Kedong to the high-speed savannah of Sleeping Warrior, this is where the WRC’s toughest machines are pushed to their limits. Taking place from March 12 – 15, the third round of the season shifts away from its traditional Nairobi start to concentrate solely on the challenging terrain around Lake Naivasha. It continues to be the ultimate test of endurance in the WRC

While no longer an endurance marathon, its core remains ever present: remaining the most demanding gravel event on the calendar, indeed the world. In 2026, the route undergoes its most significant alteration since returning to the calendar, with the ceremonial start and the Kasarani Super Special in Nairobi being replaced by a route concentrated solely on Naivasha. This adjustment moves the Shakedown to Thursday morning at the new Nawisa test, with competitive action commencing immediately that afternoon.

The Hankook Dynapro gravel tyres face their toughest test here, dealing with razor-sharp rocks and the infamous "fesh-fesh" sand that can completely envelop a car. Friday is the rally's marathon day, featuring a challenging eight-stage loop that includes a reversed run of the difficult Camp Moran. The rally concludes on Sunday with repeat runs of the legendary Hell’s Gate, serving as the Wolf Power Stage against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rift Valley’s towering cliffs.

Safari Entry List.pdf

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