6 March 2026 | Freetown
The second cohort of participants in the Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally has completed its entry into Sierra Leone, marking another significant milestone in the nation’s hosting of the internationally acclaimed adventure rally. The convoy, comprising 420 participants across 203 vehicles and motorbikes, entered Sierra Leone through the Gbalamuya Border Crossing before proceeding to Bureh Beach for an overnight stop designed to showcase the nation’s vibrant culture and renowned hospitality.
At Bureh Beach, rally participants were treated to an evening of cultural entertainment organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the National Tourist Board, and key partners. The programme featured live band performances, traditional cultural displays, and lively beachside festivities, creating a memorable atmosphere for the visiting teams. This event offered participants a unique introduction to Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage while highlighting the country’s expanding tourism potential.
Following the overnight engagement, the convoy departed Bureh Beach under escort from the Sierra Leone Police and other security personnel, continuing its journey to the capital city, Freetown. The rally concluded at the Gigibonta Car Park, where government officials, tourism stakeholders, and enthusiastic spectators gathered to welcome the teams as they completed their remarkable intercontinental expedition across Europe and Africa.
Speaking at the finish-line reception, Mohamed Jalloh, Director of the Tourism, Travel and Exchange Program, emphasised the broader significance of the rally for Sierra Leone’s global engagement.
“The Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally is more than a motorsport adventure; it represents a cultural bridge that connects people, promotes friendship among nations, and highlights Sierra Leone as a welcoming and exciting tourism destination,” he stated.
The rally continues to deliver meaningful benefits to Sierra Leone by strengthening the country’s international visibility, attracting global visitors, and stimulating economic activity in communities along the route. Through events such as the Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally, Sierra Leone is steadily positioning itself as an emerging hub for adventure tourism, cultural exchange, and international events.
