Naivasha Hotels Experience Surge in Bookings for World Rally Championships and Easter
NAIVASHA – Anticipation is building in Naivasha as local hotels report a significant increase in bookings ahead of the World Rally Championships (WRC), coinciding with the Easter holiday season, marking a bustling period for the lakeside town renowned for its adventure and leisure offerings.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chairman of the Nakuru County Tourism Association, the convergence of the WRC event, scheduled for March 28th to 31st, with the Easter holidays has catalyzed a 90% occupancy rate in local accommodation facilities. This year, the rally returns to its traditional Easter slot, with Naivasha and Gilgil sub-counties playing host to the adrenaline-charged competition, drawing fans and participants from around the globe.
In recent weeks, teams from the WRC and local rally officials have been meticulous in their preparations, ensuring that the service park and race routes meet the exacting standards required for this prestigious motorsport event. The anticipated influx of 100,000 rally enthusiasts is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region, with a projected injection of Ksh 7 billion into the Kenyan economy.
The local hospitality sector is poised to capitalize on this opportunity, with hotels, bed and breakfast establishments, and camping sites in Naivasha and Gilgil undergoing enhancements to welcome guests. These preparations include refurbishments, landscaping improvements, and culinary updates to ensure top-tier service for an international audience.
During the recent inauguration of the Lemaiyan Suites in Naivasha town, Mwangi underscored Nakuru County’s emergence as a prime destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. He highlighted the positive economic impact of the rally, emphasizing job creation and local development.
Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones reiterated the county’s commitment to supporting investment and fostering public-private partnerships, essential for maintaining Naivasha’s appeal as a premier event location. Furthermore, Stephen Kuria, Nakuru County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Tourism, and Cooperatives, detailed initiatives to streamline investment processes, including a unified licensing system and the forthcoming operationalization of the Mai Mahiu Special Economic Zone.
Amid the excitement of the rally, visitors can also indulge in Naivasha’s natural beauty and attractions, such as Lake Naivasha’s famed fish, local wildlife, and nearby landmarks like Mt. Longonot and Hell’s Gate National Park. The WRC’s return to Kenya highlights Naivasha’s status as a dynamic hub for tourism and hospitality, reinforcing its reputation on the global stage.