The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a traffic advisory ahead of the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2026, warning motorists to expect heavy traffic on major roads leading to Naivasha and other parts of the Great Rift Valley.

The rally runs from Thursday, March 12 to Sunday, March 15, 2026, and is expected to attract thousands of fans travelling from Nairobi and other parts of the country. Many spectators will head towards rally stages in Nakuru, Lanet, and the surrounding areas.

KeNHA shared the advisory on its official platforms. The authority said the guidance aims to reduce congestion during the busy rally weekend.

“The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) hereby issues a traffic advisory and alternative routes to ease anticipated traffic congestion caused by the public heading to the Safari Rally event from 12th to 15th March, 2026,” the notice states.

The authority also issued a warning to truck drivers using the main highways. KeNHA directed them not to park at undesignated spots along the roads.

“Truck drivers are advised not to park at any undesignated areas on highways. Violation of this directive shall lead to immediate arrest,” the notice reads.

To help motorists avoid heavy traffic, KeNHA listed four alternative routes from Nairobi towards rally areas around Nakuru and Lanet.

The first option, named the Scenic Route, runs from Nairobi through Flyover (Magumu), Njambini, Ol Kalou, Dundori, and finally Lanet.

The second route, called the Adventure Route, goes from Nairobi through Rironi and Naivasha before continuing to Engineer, Ol Kalou, Dundori, and Lanet.

Motorists can also use the Thika Trail, which starts in Nairobi and passes through Thika, Magumu, Ol Kalou, Dundori, and Lanet.

Another option is the Suswa Shortcut, which runs from Nairobi through Ngong, Suswa, Narok, and then to Nakuru.

The authority ended the notice with a safety reminder.

“The Authority continues to ensure your safety on all our Highways,” the statement said.

WRC Safari Rally

Excitement around the rally continues to build across the country. President William Ruto recently urged Kenyans to attend the event.

In a video shared on State House Kenya’s TikTok page on March 10, he said: “Wakenya, this weekend is that weekend we have been longing for and waiting for. Kenya, where it all begins, home of the ultimate test of endurance, the Safari Rally, is not just a race; it is who we are.”

He added:

“Come experience wonders, tuonane Safari Rally, tukutane Vasha.”

The 2026 rally is the sixth edition since the World Rally Championship returned to Kenya in 2021. Organisers have dropped the traditional ceremonial start in Nairobi and based the event fully in Naivasha.

Drivers will tackle 20 special stages across rough gravel roads in the Rift Valley, including areas such as Kedong and Sleeping Warrior. The route features deep dust, fesh-fesh sand, and unpredictable weather, which often test both cars and crews.

Last year’s rally in 2025 saw Welsh driver Elfyn Evans claim victory after navigating difficult terrain and wildlife hazards.

KeNHA has urged motorists to plan their journeys early and follow the recommended routes to reduce delays during the rally weekend.