Motor maze is becoming Nanyuki's new graze

Motor Maze, the Rotary Club of Nanyuki’s annual adventure and fundraising event, is becoming a distinctive fixture on the town’s social calendar ,  bringing together off-road adventure lovers, 4x4 enthusiasts and teams of thrill-seekers for a day of driving, clues and competition, while raising money for education, including scholarships, ICT laboratories  and Early Childhood Development Education support.

Now in its sixth edition, the event has raised more than KSh3.5 million, according to Rotary Club of Nanyuki President Alex Kamau. “Motor Maze is where adventure meets purpose,”  Kamau said. “Participants enjoy a fun day of solving clues and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Laikipia, while learning about conservation and supporting Rotary's community projects.” The event has evolved considerably since its introduction.

Three years ago, the club introduced the Wild Edition, adding another layer of adventure.  This year, organisers are taking the motor maze beyond its recent home at Ol Pejeta Conservancy and into Nanyuki and the wider Laikipia region. “Expect new routes, new clues, new discoveries and a whole new adventure,” the club’s president added. 

The appeal is partly the uncertainty. Teams follow clues rather than a conventional itinerary, turning an ordinary drive into a moving puzzle. The cars become part of the game, but the event is not designed exclusively for large four-wheel drives. “Many ordinary vehicles can take part in Motor Maze, so you do not necessarily need a four-wheel drive,” Kamau noted. 

There is also a practical reason for the event's growing following: the fun has a destination beyond the finish line. Funds from the 2026 edition will support Rotary scholarships, a modern ICT laboratory at Nanyuki DEB Primary and Junior School, and ECDE classrooms at Kabanga Primary School. 

Previous editions have supported scholarships, school renovations and other community programmes. “Every entry helps us create opportunities for young people and strengthen our community,” Kamau reiterated. 

The sixth edition will begin at 7am on 17 October at Jirani, Muthaiga Road, Nanyuki town. For a town accustomed to safari drives, weekend escapes and the famous social rhythm of the Nanyuki graze, Motor Maze is offering another kind of ritual for offroad lovers who want to make a difference while having fun.