Heavy traffic as Safari Rally fans stream to Hell’s Gate for final stage
By Mustafa Juma, March 15, 2026Heavy traffic was reported along Moi South Lake Road in Naivasha on Sunday, March 15, 2026, as thousands of fans streamed to watch the final stage of the Safari Rally Kenya at Hell’s Gate National Park.
According to the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, large numbers of spectators turned up for the iconic motorsport event, leading to increased traffic along key access routes to the rally venue.
The ministry, in a statement issued via X on Sunday, March 15, 2026, said the build-up of vehicles along Moi South Lake Road was caused by rally fans making their way to the park to witness the concluding stage of the competition, which has drawn significant local and international attention.
“Rally fans have turned up in their thousands for the #SafariRallyKenya, with heavy traffic building along Moi South Lake Road in Naivasha as spectators make their way to the final stage at Hell’s Gate National Park,” the statement reads.
Government urges caution
Authorities have urged motorists travelling in the area to remain cautious and strictly follow traffic regulations to ensure safety for all road users.
Motorists were also advised to cooperate with police officers deployed along the route to manage the flow of traffic and guide vehicles to designated parking and spectator zones.
“Motorists are advised to proceed with caution, observe traffic rules, and follow directions from police officers along the route,” the Ministry of Interior stated.
Police officers and traffic marshals have been stationed along major routes leading to Hell’s Gate National Park to help ease congestion and ensure smooth movement of vehicles during the event.
The Safari Rally Kenya, part of the global World Rally Championship calendar, is one of the country’s biggest sporting events and traditionally attracts thousands of spectators who gather to watch drivers tackle the challenging terrains of the Great Rift Valley.
Officials expect the high turnout of fans to continue through the final stages of the rally as motorsport enthusiasts converge on Naivasha to witness the dramatic finish of the competition.
Heavy police deployment
The government had deployed more than 1,000 police officers and activated a multi-agency security framework to ensure safety and smooth operations during the Safari Rally Kenya, which had been scheduled to run from March 12 to March 15, 2026, in Naivasha.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, March 12, 2026, via social media, the Ministry of Interior said comprehensive security, traffic management, and public safety measures had been put in place ahead of the globally renowned motorsport event, which is part of the World Rally Championship calendar.
According to the ministry, the government has activated a coordinated security plan involving several state agencies to safeguard rally drivers, teams, spectators, and residents during the competition period.