Vipingo Ridge is preparing to make history, for the first time, as host of the 2023 East African Safari Classic Rally (or EASCR) opening event. We are excited to welcome rally enthusiasts to the heart of the action in Kilifi.

About the East African Classic Safari Rally

This year's Classic Safari Rally, scheduled from December 9th to 18th, marks the 11th edition of the event. The 2023 Classic Safari is particularly special as it has set a record with the highest number of entries in its history, however due to limitations, only 65 entrees will be participating.

The rally, covering 4,000km over 9 days, will kick off with a shakedown stage in Vipingo Ridge, offering competitors and organisers a taste of the unique terrain and scenes that the Ridge has to offer.

The 9-day rally will feature a diverse range of cars, from Tuthill Porsches and Ford Escorts to a 2-car Morgan team and even a Trabant. Notably, an all-lady team from the Czech Republic, led by renowned singer Olga Lounova, will bring female mechanics, marking a first for rallying in Kenya.

Positive Economic and Environment Impact

The impact of the Classic Rally extends beyond the thrill of the competition.

The EASCR is expected to bring foreign investment of over $1,500,000 USD into Kenya, with each team contributing approximately $25,000 USD during their stay. The rally will benefit 11 counties, with over 800 hotel beds per night booked across 25 different hotels, amounting to a spend of over $600,000 USD on accommodation alone.

Jeet Ghose, the CEO of the EASCR, highlighted the rally's commitment to environmental sustainability. "It is one of the only rallies worldwide to be Carbon free off-setting emissions from cars and helicopter flights through carbon credits. In addition, drivers and teams will be planting trees in Kilifi County at the start, aligned to Governmental initiatives."

The rally will also contribute to conservation efforts, aligning with Vipingo Ridge's ethos. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) stands to gain approximately $75,000 in park fees, supporting the conservation of the country's wildlife and landscapes. Local businesses, including restaurants, car rental companies, logistics companies, tourist attractions, and car mechanics, will also see a boost, providing economic vibrancy across the region.

Motorsport at Vipingo Ridge

This event marks a significant milestone in motorsport history at Vipingo Ridge. Earlier this year Vipingo Ridge hosted the Motocross Championships round 6, we are also a sponsor of the Kenya National Rally Championship. Our legacy in motorsport is long standing, please check out our blog about the Motorsport at the Ridge.

The rally's focus on ecological drive aligns seamlessly with Vipingo Ridge's commitment to conservation and community engagement. Spectators from the local community and across the Kilifi and Mombasa counties will be invited to watch the ‘shakedown’ stage of the rally, a short stage on the 9th December, within Vipingo Ridge, where the competitors will race to secure their starting placement for the EASCR.

Competitors and organisers will have the chance to experience the wonders of Vipingo Ridge – from golfing on Africa’s only UK PGA golf course with free roaming wildlife, to the enchanting mango forest and Beach Club. With a range of other activities such as tennis, water sports, skydiving, and a range of restaurants to choose from, this will be the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for the competitors, both global and domestic.

Twende Classic

With preparations well underway, Vipingo Ridge is delighted to engage the community in an event for all our stakeholders:

"We are excited to be the host venue for the start of this year's East African Classic Safari Rally at Vipingo Ridge in Kilifi County.

The rally is an unmatched event and our gated and secure destination is ideal for the teams to experience their first taste of adrenaline. We will host the official flagging off ceremony and off-road prologue stage, as well as being a great place for the teams to relax ahead of an incredible 9 days of action” – Alex Horsey CEO Vipingo Ridge, EASCR Competitor 2011, 2013

As Vipingo Ridge opens its doors to the rallying world, it will be a very nostalgic event, especially for the veterans, bringing back memories of the days when the original East African Safari Rally attracted more than 80 entries. We are absolutely honoured to partner with EACSR and look forward to welcoming all the teams and spectators to Vipingo Ridge.

#TwendeClassic