By Timothy Albrite
The 2025 Safari rally is fast approaching and it’s shaping up to be an event you won’t want to miss. Starting with the shakedown on March 19th in Naivasha and the flag-off in Nairobi on March 20th, this year’s rally is all about making the action more accessible for spectators and fans.
A major change this year is the location of the flag-off. While previous editions kicked off at Nairobi’s iconic KICC, this time, the rally will begin at City Hall Way as the organizers are keen on giving spectators a more up-close and personal view of their favourite drivers and rally cars.
In Nairobi, there will be two spectator zones: one at the City Hall Way flag-off and another at the Kasarani Super Special Stage at the Moi International Sports Centre.
The Kasarani stage will run in reverse, shaking things up for those who’ve followed the rally since it returned in 2021.
Spectator stages
This year’s rally also introduces two new stages: Morendat Farm in Naivasha and Camp Moran. These new additions promise fresh challenges for both drivers and spectators alike.
The Shakedown Stage will be moving from Loldia to Sleeping Warrior in Naivasha, offering fans a new spot to enjoy some pre-race thrills.
March 19th, Shakedown Day, will give fans two prime spots to see the action at the Sleeping Warrior Special Export Zone in Naivasha.
On March 21st, Kedong will host the Start and Finish Spectator Zones, and KenGen Geothermal will also offer great views. But the real highlight on this day is the introduction of Camp Moran, a brand-new stage with three spectator zones.
March 22nd will see drivers tackle the Sleeping Warrior Stage, with two spectator zones. Then, it’s off to Soysambu and Elementaita, both providing stunning views of the rally action.
On the final day, March 23rd, the rally will wrap up at Leleshwa, located just 6 km from Naivasha town at Morendat Farm. Here, fans will be treated to an 8 km spectator zone and the new Rally Village, which will be buzzing with activity. The event closes with the Prize Giving Ceremony at Hell’s Gate, where drivers will celebrate their victories with the striking Rift Valley backdrop.
The Rally Village
A standout feature this year is the Rally Village at Morendat Farm. This four-day hub is designed to give spectators the ultimate rally experience. Fans will be able to watch the cars in action, meet drivers during autograph sessions, and get an up-close look at the rally cars. There will be big screens for those who want to catch the action when they’re not at the stages.
To keep everything running smoothly and safely, organizers have capped the number of entries at 50 cars, ensuring that all competitive stages finish before nightfall.
Among the top drivers expected to enter the WRC Safari Rally include reigning world champion, Thierry Neuville of Belgium, two-time WRC champion and Safari winner, Kalle Rovanpera and his Toyota Gazoo Racing teammate Sebastien Ogier who recently won the opening round of the 2025 WRC Monaco Rally.