The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has announced that it will host the second batch of participants in the 2026 Budapest-Bamako Rally finish line events in Freetown this week.

In a press release dated 2nd March 2026, the Ministry stated that the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with its sub-vented agencies, VSL Travel, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and private sector partners, is informing the public about the scheduled arrival and hosting of the second batch of participants of the 2026 Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Challenge in Freetown.

According to the statement, the second batch of the rally is expected to enter Sierra Leone on 5th March 2026, comprising 492 participants and 203 vehicles, including motorbikes. Upon arrival through the Gbalamuya (Kambia) and Madina Oula (Kamakwie) border crossing points, the rally will proceed along designated routes via Kambia-Gbere Junction and Kamakwie-Kabba Ferry-Gbere Junction.

The convoy will then continue through Masiaka, Mile 38, and Waterloo to the Waterloo-Tombo Highway, and onward to Bureh Beach for an overnight camping experience on 5th March 2026.

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The Ministry further announced that the official finish line ceremony for the second batch will take place on 6th March 2026 at Lumley Beach, Gigibonta Car Park, in Freetown.

The final ceremonial procession will depart Bureh Beach and travel along the Waterloo-Freetown Highway, passing through Up Gun, Kissy Road, Eastern Police, Godrich Street, Siaka Stevens Street, St. John, Congo Cross, and Wilkinson Road before culminating at the finish line destination.

The Ministry noted that Sierra Leone’s continued role as the official finish destination of the Budapest-Bamako Rally highlights the country’s growing reputation as a premier tourism and adventure destination.

In line with the Year of Culture and Creativity 2026, the event is expected to showcase Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage, strengthen international visibility, and generate socio-economic benefits, including employment opportunities, local business patronage, and community engagement.

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs encouraged the general public, especially communities along the rally routes, to cooperate with traffic authorities, maintain safety, and extend Sierra Leone’s renowned hospitality to all visiting participants and guests.

The statement was issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and marked the official communication on the upcoming rally activities.