The rallying world is abuzz with anticipation this week, as the 2024 WRC Safari Rally gears up for an electrifying Easter weekend. This year’s event promises to build upon the rich legacy of past editions, offering an unparalleled African experience. What makes this year truly special is the convergence of two beloved traditions: the roar of engines coinciding with the joyous celebrations of Easter. For the first time in nearly three decades, rally enthusiasts will relive a cherished custom dating back to the days of legendary driver Shekhar Mehta, fondly known as ‘Shakameta’ among fans. Returning to its rightful place during the Easter weekend from March 28th to 31st, the Safari Rally reignites a tradition steeped in history and excitement.
Once again, Naivasha town will play host to this spectacular sporting action, home to the purpose-built service park for all teams. Nestled in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, this lovely town provides the perfect setting for this legendary event, with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. As rally enthusiasts descend here, anticipation fills the air, echoing through the streets and marketplaces. From the shores of Lake Naivasha to the rugged terrain of nearby Hell’s Gate National Park, every corner of Naivasha holds the promise of adventure and adrenaline.
KCB Bank Kenya is right in the heart of the action, putting in a whopping Kshs. 194 million to make it all happen. KCB Bank Kenya, a key player in the nation’s motorsport scene, has reaffirmed its commitment as the principal Financial Partner with a substantial investment of Kshs. 194 million. This substantial contribution comprises KShs. 100 million dedicated to rally preparations and logistics, coupled with an additional KShs. 95 million allocated to sponsor local talents, Karan Patel and Nikhil Sachania.
All the sporting action kicks off with the heart-pounding excitement of the Super Special in Nairobi, setting the stage for a thrilling competition that will test the mettle of the world’s best rally drivers. On Friday, the rally follows the same opening loop as in 2023, featuring stages in Loldia, Geothermal, and Kedong. Saturday heads to the Delemare Estates, the backbone of the Safari Rally since its inception. Sunday holds many challenges for those crews aiming for a finish, with 80 kilometers of competition before the finish with Hells Gate Power Stage. Nineteen Special Stages and over 360 kilometers make up the 2024 Safari Rally Kenya route.
Here’s how the routes and the plan for the entire weekend.
WEDNESDAY 27 MARCH 2024
Shakedown Loldia-10:01hrs
Wednesday heralds the commencement of the action with the Shakedown at the Ndulele Conservancy. The Ndulele Conservancy off the Moi North Lake Road will be the venue from 10:01 hrs. The challenging 5.4kms of Kenyan rally tracks will see action from the various classes of WRC rally cars.
THURSDAY 28 MARCH 2024
Rally1 cars from 10.00hrs. Then to Kenyatta International Convention Centre – 11:51hrs press conference followed by the Ceremonial Start at 12:26 hrs.
SSS 1, Kasarani will start off the competition with 2 cars racing at a time from 14:05 Hrs
Thursday brings a flurry of activity as drivers embark on reconnaissance of the Kasarani Spectator Stage, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of rallying greatness. The ceremonial start, set against the backdrop of Nairobi’s bustling streets, ignites the competitive spirit as the rally officially gets underway.
FRIDAY 29 MARCH 2024 (SECTION 2/3)
SS 2/5 Loldia 1 & 2- 19.17kms @ 08.15 and 13.48
Friday’s journey through the iconic landscapes of Loldia, Geothermal, and Kedong evokes echoes of Safari Rallies past. From the narrow forest tracks of Loldia to the breathtaking vistas of Geothermal, each stage presents its own unique challenges, pushing drivers to their limits.
SS 3/6 Geothermal 1 & 2 – 13.12kms @ 09.33 and 15.06hrs
The stage swiftly ascends into the Geothermal fields of the Ol Karia Geothermal projects. Descending to lower terrain marked by tricky wash-aways and soft dust, the route navigates through community lands and settlements before ascending once more over rugged, rock-lined hills. These hills form part of the expansive landscape of Hells Gate and the Ol Karia geothermal area. Spanning 13.12 kilometers, the route winds through hills and valleys, evoking scenes reminiscent of a Hollywood production. Against the backdrop of a vibrant Kenyan sky, the constant plumes of geothermal vents create a stunning vista, making SS Geothermal an unforgettable spectacle.
SS 4/7 Kedong 1 & 2 – 31.50 kms @ 10.26 and 15.59
A beloved choice among East African rally enthusiasts, this stage receives a slight reroute for the 2024 edition. A new section winds around the iconic Miti Mbili trees before reconnecting with familiar tracks from previous years. However, the entire stage will be run in reverse this time. It kicks off with an exhilarating flat-out blast past the spectator area, marking it as the longest stage on Friday.
SATURDAY 30 MARCH 2024 (SECTION 4/5)
Saturday sees the adventure continue with exhilarating stages through Delemare Estates, Soysambu Conservancy, and the picturesque shores of Lake Elmenteita. Against a backdrop of natural beauty, drivers navigate treacherous terrain, showcasing their skill and determination in the face of adversity.
SS 8/11 Soysambu– 29.32kms @08:01hrs & 14:34hrs
SS Soysambu, a 29.32 km route through the now familiar Soysambu Conservancy will have a 3km Spectator area at the start, followed by the deceptively tricky run through savannah woodlands , rocky outcrops and a sweeping finish over another large Spectator area.
SS 9/12 Elmenteita LIVE TV 15.08kms @09:05hrs & 15:35hrs
Set against the naturally stunning backdrop of Lake Elementaita, this stage will take center stage as the Live TV Stage on Saturday. It’s designed to facilitate Live TV crews in capturing the rally action amidst the picturesque surroundings. Serving as both the second and fifth stages of the day, Elementaita promises to offer iconic imagery. From its grey volcanic dust to the lush vegetation along the lakeside, every detail adds to the visual spectacle. The clear blue sky reflected on the lake’s surface, dotted with flocks of pink flamingos, completes the scene, ensuring that Elementaita will be a feast for the eyes.
SS 10/13 Sleeping Warrior- 36.08kms @10:03hrs & 16:33hrs
Nestled in the shadow of a hill resembling a Sleeping Maasai Warrior, this special stage winds its way across natural plains, navigating around numerous hills scattered throughout the landscape. Stretching over a competitive distance of 36.08 kilometers, the Sleeping Warrior Stage stands as the longest leg of the rally, embodying the true essence of the Safari spirit. With its unique challenges, including a new start and an extended route leading beyond the rear of the Sleeping Warrior hill, this stage presents a fresh test for crews. The final 7 kilometers of the stage traverse through a mulberry farm, characterized by narrow paths, rapid elevation changes, and swift turns, culminating near the historic pipeline road connecting Gilgil to the surrounding area.
SUNDAY 31ST MARCH 2024 (SECTION 6/7/8)
SS 14/17 Malewa 1& 2 – 8.33 kms @ 07:02 & 11:20 hrs
This stage is a brief yet intense challenge, leading crews through technically demanding miles that ascend and descend over rough surfaces. With sharp square turns adding to the excitement, it adds an extra layer of challenge to the final day of the rally.
SS 15/18 Oserengoni 1 & 2 -18.33 kms @ 07:57 & 12:10hrs
Located within the exclusive Oserengoni Sanctuary, this stage stands out as one of the most thrilling segments of the rally. With a diverse array of spectators, from antelopes to zebras, the Oserian stage offers a unique experience. The area boasts a rich variety of indigenous fauna, with changing elevations and flora adding to the challenge. As the habitat of leopards and a roaming pride of lions, Oserengoni truly embodies the essence of the Safari Rally.
SS 17/19 Hellsgate LIVE TV 10.53 kms @ 09:05 & 14:15hrs
The renowned Hell’s Gate stage, renowned for its rapid ascents and descents, serves as the thrilling finale of the Safari Rally on its last day. Set against a backdrop that rivals any other Power Stage in the World Rally Championship, Hell’s Gate promises to conclude the 2024 Safari Rally Kenya on a triumphant note.
With the finish line positioned beside the picturesque Fisher’s Tower, Hell’s Gate offers spectators a prime vantage point to witness the climax of the rally. Here, on the final day, fans can eagerly observe the intense competition unfold as drivers vie for crucial championship points in the 2024 World Rally Championship.
