Naivasha is buzzing with anticipation as the 2025 WRC Safari Rally Kenya approaches, with hotel bookings in the town and its environs reaching record highs. Scheduled from March 19th to 23rd, the event has become a magnet for motorsport fans and tourists alike, drawing an estimated 100,000 visitors. This influx has caused a noticeable surge in hospitality demand, with hotels, lodges, and resorts along Moi South Lake Road operating at full capacity. The annual event continues to play a pivotal role in transforming Naivasha into a prominent hub for tourism and business during the rally season.
In the last four years, Naivasha’s hospitality infrastructure has grown substantially, with new hotels opening year after year to meet the increasing demand brought about by the rally. Hylise Hotel General Manager John Mburu expressed confidence in his team’s readiness to host the masses. He highlighted how they have learned and adapted from previous years, improving operations and boosting manpower to cater to guests. Mburu confirmed that their 57 rooms with a total of 66 beds are fully booked from Sunday through the end of the rally, with operations running 24 hours a day to meet guests’ needs.
Enashipai Resort and Spa, a prestigious establishment known for its blend of African luxury and hospitality, is one of the key accommodations for world rally officials and race crews. The resort’s Chief Engineer, Shem Onyara, confirmed that all 135 rooms have been secured by rally drivers and co-drivers. He noted that they have already begun welcoming crew members who had made advance bookings. Onyara reflected on the transformation brought by the Safari Rally’s return to the World Rally Championship in 2021, particularly pointing out the improvement of roads leading to the hotels and the emergence of new businesses along Moi South Lake Road.
The impact of the Safari Rally on Naivasha’s economy is profound. In 2022, the event reached a global audience of 80 million viewers across 150 countries, putting Naivasha on the international map. Locally, it has stimulated growth across various sectors, with tourism, hospitality, and transport industries among the major beneficiaries. Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei emphasized the importance of the rally in promoting Kenya’s tourism and supporting local economies. She noted that last year’s rally not only attracted over 100,000 spectators but also provided a platform to showcase Kenya’s scenic countryside to the world.
High-end hotels such as Sawela Lodge, Lake Naivasha Resort, and Sopa Lodge have reported overwhelming demand, further cementing Naivasha’s status as a go-to destination during the rally. The event is also a boon for small and medium-sized enterprises. Service providers ranging from motorcycle taxis, popularly known as boda bodas, to vendors, entertainers, and farmers are gearing up to capitalize on the increased traffic. The vibrancy extends beyond accommodation, with eateries, butcheries, and entertainment spots preparing to welcome visitors with food, music, and cultural experiences.
With visitors expected from as far as Uganda and beyond, the 2025 Safari Rally is more than just a sporting spectacle; it is a major economic stimulus for Naivasha, drawing locals and international guests into a celebration of speed, culture, and commerce.
