29 JULY – 2 AUGUST 2026
The SAFARI 500 2026
The Safari 500 is a grand touring and regularity rally drawing inspiration from the success of The Cape 1000. It is reimagined across South Africa’s breathtaking bushveld landscapes. The event offers an unforgettable experience blending the core elements of grand touring and regularity rallying with the unique excitement of an African safari*. The route focuses on the dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife of the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, renowned for their proximity to the iconic Kruger National Park. The challenge spans approximately 500 miles (800km) over three days of driving and activities, totalling four nights.
*All roads on this event are tarred.
THE SAFARI 500 IN NUMBERS
500
Miles
65
Cars
4
Nights
3
Days
Itinerary
WEDNESDAY
29th July 2026
- Polokwane, Limpopo Registration at Protea hotel Ranch Resort
- Welcome Function/Dinner
THURSDAY – Day 1
30th July 2026
- Driving commences from Polokwane via the scenic Magoebaskloof area
- Day concludes at Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, followed by Game Drive Activities
FRIDAY – Day 2
31st July 2026
- The rally continues from Hoedspruit, traveling through Kruger National Park
- Lunch at God’s Window
- Destination for the next two nights is the Kruger Gate Hotel in the Skukuza area
SATURDAY – Day 3
1st August 2026
- Experience the Big 5 with a Gamedrive within Kruger National Park
- Awards Dinner
SUNDAY
2nd August 2026
- Depart at leisure
What’s Included*
Four nights accommodation with breakfast included. Unwind each night in high-quality 4-star hotels, selected for their unique character and exceptional service. Accommodation includes the Protea Hotel Ranch Resort (Polokwane), Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, and Kruger Gate Hotel (Skukuza area).
A dedicated game drive activity near the Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, utilizing open game vehicles within a Private Game Reserve. Further optional game drives available within the Kruger National Park which provides unparalleled access to wildlife encounters and opportunities to witness the impressive biodiversity, including the pursuit of the Big 5.
Share your experiences with fellow participants as you are wined, dined and entertained in luxurious locations. Refuel with four evening meals (including the Welcome Dinner and Awards Dinner), limited complimentary wine, daily light lunches, and take in the vistas from the most picturesque mobile coffee bar in Africa!
We expect the entrant’s cars to be in fine fettle, but we anticipate the odd mechanical issue will arise. Should anything go wrong, our lite mechanical support team will do what they can to get you back on the road or trailer your vehicle to the nearest mechanical workshop.
All participants receive a luxury goodie bag that will delight and surprise.
Costs
Classic Class – R80 000 incl VAT
Modern Classic & Specials Class – R85 000 incl VAT
Sports Class – R90 000 incl VAT
Pricing is for 2 pax sharing
Payment Schedule
100% of the total invoice amount will be payable within 48 hours of receipt of the invoice in respect of The Safari 500 Event.
Cancellation Policy
- The Registration in respect of the Safari 500 Event will be transferable to another party up to and including the 31st March 2026, subject to that vehicle’s approval by the admissions committee.
- It will be understood between the Parties that the transfer of the Registrations set out above will result in logistical challenges wherein some regalia items cannot be supplied to a newly registered Client due to time constraints.
- A 25% Cancellation fee will be applied where a Client cancels his or her Registration on or before 30th April 2026.
- A 100% Cancellation fee will be applied where a Client cancels his or her Registration on or before 30th May 2026.
Please note: Unforeseen cancellations due to medical reasons, unrest, natural disaster, force majeure, or any other related circumstances are subject to the above-mentioned terms and do not constitute a valid reason for waiver of the cancellation policy terms.
Prizes
The main prize goes to the overall winner of the regularity stages who will gain legendary status in the history of the Safari 500.
The top 3 winners of the regularity stages from each class will receive an award.
As determined by the participants, this is your chance to vote for the team you think captured the event’s spirit. The Spirit of the Safari 500 prize is the one to win.
