Freetown, Sierra Leone – January 17, 2026 – The Government of Sierra Leone has announced plans to host the finish line events for the 2026 Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally, marking a significant boost for the country’s tourism and cultural sectors.
The rally, described as one of the world’s largest amateur vehicular and charitable adventure events, will culminate in Freetown after a grueling journey from Budapest, Hungary, across Europe and Africa.
In a press release issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs on January 15, the government detailed its collaboration with the National Tourist Board, Monuments and Relics Commission, VSLTRAVEL, and various ministries, departments, agencies, and private sector partners to ensure a successful hosting.
This year’s event builds on Sierra Leone’s track record, having successfully organized five similar rallies since 2020, which has led organizers to commit to Freetown as the finish destination for a decade, from 2024 to 2034.
The rally will arrive in two batches. The first group, consisting of 352 vehicles and 794 participants, is scheduled to enter Sierra Leone on February 8, 2026. Participants will enjoy an overnight camping experience at Bureh Beach on February 9, followed by the official Finish Line Ceremony later that day.
The second batch, with 203 vehicles and 492 participants, will cross into the country on March 5, 2026, via the Balamuya/Kamawi and Madina Oula border points in Kambia. They will camp overnight at Bureh Beach on the same day, with the Finish Line Ceremony set for March 6.
Upon entry, rally convoys will follow designated routes through Kambia-Gbaray Junction and Kamakwi-Kabba Ferry-Gbaray Junction, proceeding via Masiaka, Mile 91, Waterloo, and the Waterloo-Tombo Highway to Bureh Beach.
The final leg from Bureh Beach to Freetown will wind along the Waterloo-Freetown Highway, Up Gun, Kissy Road, Eastern Police, Abacha Street, Siaka Stevens Street, St. John, Congo Cross, and Wilkinson Road, ending at Lumley Beach’s Giogbonta Car Park—the official finish line venue.
The ministry highlighted the rally’s potential to showcase Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage, hospitality, and international tourism appeal. Declared as the Year of Culture and Creativity in 2026, the event is expected to deliver socio-economic benefits, including job creation, revenue generation, community development, environmental initiatives, and cross-cultural exchanges.
“The Ministry encourages the public, communities along the routes, and the media to support and warmly welcome rally participants during the event period,” the release stated, emphasizing the opportunity to promote Sierra Leone on a global stage.
This rally not only reinforces Freetown’s status as a key adventure tourism hub but also aligns with broader efforts to foster economic growth through cultural and creative industries. Local residents and visitors are urged to participate in the festivities, ensuring a memorable welcome for the international adventurers.
