𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙤𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙁𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙣: 𝙎𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙖 𝙇𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙪𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙚𝙨𝙩-𝘽𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙤- 𝙁𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚 2026.

Kai Bockarie-Saquee

Coms/ PR- NTB

+23277347810

FREETOWN – The engines are roaring, the dust is settling, and the spirit of adventure is about to descend upon the Atlantic coast. Sierra Leone is gearing up to welcome the world’s largest amateur vehicular rally, the Budapest-Bamako Freetown Challenge, in what promises to be a spectacular display of culture, creativity, and endurance. This year, the rally arrives in two massive waves, bringing over a thousand adventurers from across the globe to the sandy shores of Bureh and the bustling streets of Freetown.

The 2026 edition of the rally is set to be one of the largest in its history. The first cohort, scheduled to cross the border on February 8th, comprises a staggering 352 vehicles and approximately 794 participants. These intrepid travelers have crossed continents, deserts, and savannahs to reach the “Explore West Africa Sierra Leone.”

A second wave of adventurers will follow a month later, arriving on March 5th, bringing another 203 vehicles and nearly 500 participants. Together, they represent a significant boost to local tourism and a unique opportunity for cultural exchange. The journey into Sierra Leone offers participants a scenic tour of the country’s diverse landscapes. On February 8th, teams will enter through two primary border crossing points: Kambia Balamya and Kamakwi Madina Oula.

Those entering via Kamakwi will navigate the legendary Kabba Ferry before merging with the main route at Masiaka. From there, the convoy will snake through Waterloo, heading straight for the pristine sands of Bureh Beach. Bureh Beach will transform into a vibrant hub of “Culture and Creativity.” The overnight stay is not just a rest stop; it is designed as an immersive experience featuring camping under the stars, live entertainment, and a “mini-gastronomy” festival showcasing the best of Sierra Leonean cuisine.

The climax of the event takes place on the morning of February 9th. At 9:00 AM, the engines will fire up for the final leg of the journey. The route is designed to maximize visibility and celebration, taking the rally through the heart of the capital.

The convoy will travel from Bureh Beach through Waterloo, past Up Gun, and onto the historic Kissy Road. In a bold move that brings the rally to the people, the vehicles will navigate the famous bustle of Abacha Street and PZ, turning the city center into a moving festival. From downtown, the route proceeds along Siaka Stevens Street, up to St. John, through Congo Cross and Wilkinson Road, before hitting the coastal stretch of Lumley Beach.

The journey officially concludes at the Gigibonta Car Park, where the Finish Line Gate awaits. Here, amidst the ocean breeze and cheering crowds, the participants will celebrate the end of a grueling but rewarding trans-continental journey.

For Sierra Leone, this event is more than just a rally; it is a testament to the country’s growing status as a premier destination for adventure tourism. As the dust settles on Lumley Beach this February, Freetown will once again prove that it is a city of warmth, resilience, and unbridled hospitality.

KEY DATES AT A GLANCE

COHORT 1

Arrival in Sierra Leone: February 8th, 2026

Overnight: Bureh Beach (Camping & Entertainment)

Finish Ceremony: February 9th, Gigibonta Car Park, Freetown

Size:352 vehicles, –794 participants

COHORT 2

Arrival in Sierra Leone: March 5th, 2026

Overnight: Bureh Beach

Finish Ceremony: March 6th, Freetown

Size: 203 vehicles, -492 participants