The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with its subvented agencies, VSL Travel, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and private sector partners, has announced the arrival and hosting of the second batch of participants for the 2026 Budapest Bamako-Freetown Rally.
The second batch, comprising 492 participants and 203 vehicles, including motorbikes, is expected to enter Sierra Leone on 5 March 2026 through the Gbalamuya (Kambia) and Madina Oula (Kamakwie) border crossings. The rally will proceed along designated routes via Kambia–Gbere Junction and Kamakwie–Kabba Ferry-Gbaray Junction, continuing through Masiaka, Mile 38, and Waterloo, before reaching the Waterloo-Tombo Highway and Bureh Beach, where participants will camp overnight on 5 March.
The official Finish Line Ceremony for this batch is scheduled for 6 March 2026 at Lumley Beach, Gigibonta Car Park, Freetown. The final ceremonial procession will depart Bureh Beach, traveling along the Waterloo–Freetown Highway and passing through Up Gun, Kissy Road, Eastern Police, Goderich Street, Siaka Stevens Street, St. John, Congo Cross, and Wilkinson Road, culminating at the finish line.
The Ministry highlighted that Sierra Leone’s continued role as the official finish destination for the Budapest-Bamako Rally underscores the country’s growing reputation as a premier tourism and adventure destination. Aligned with the Year of Culture and Creativity 2026, the event is expected to showcase Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage, enhance international visibility, and generate socio-economic benefits, including employment, support for local businesses, and increased community engagement.
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs urges communities along the rally routes to cooperate with traffic authorities, prioritize safety, and extend Sierra Leone’s renowned hospitality to all participants and visitors.