If you're planning a trip to WRC Portugal and want to experience one of the most iconic rally spots in the world, Fafe Jump is the place to be. It's loud, it's wild. It’s unforgettable.
We went this year and it blew our minds. So, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned rally fan, here's our guide to watching WRC Portugal at Fafe Jump, based on what we learned from the experience.
What Is Fafe Jump?
Fafe Jump is the most famous spot on the Portugal rally calendar (if not the whole WRC calendar). It’s a huge crest near the end of the Fafe stage, where cars fly through the air in front of thousands of fans. It’s where legends are made and rally dreams come to life.
When Should You Arrive at Fafe Jump?
We’d heard all sorts of horror stories about traffic and road closures, so we got there at 5am, thinking we’d be in for a nightmare. But, somehow, we parked up about 1km from the jump with no real hassle. All the roads up to the hilltop were pretty quiet and we didn’t queue at all, however, we did manage to grab the only spot we could see on the stretch of track we were on.
Maybe we were lucky, but if you want a good spot, early is definitely better. Saying that, if you happen to be in a 4x4, the options for parking are more plentiful, as long as you can find somewhere to squeeze past the rows of parked cars, you should be able to find a hillside to park on.
The Rally1 cars tend to come through around 9am, so arriving between 4am and 6am gives you a good chance of beating the crowds and settling in comfortably.
Where Can You Park?
There’s no real official parking, so you’re relying on dirt tracks, local knowledge, and pure luck. When we arrived, plenty of others were already there, sleeping in vans or staking out their viewing spots. Park as close as you can, but be prepared to walk. A kilometre or two is a decent result.
What Should You Bring?
Here’s our Fafe Jump checklist:
- A comfy camping chair or ground mat (we didn’t come this prepared, but luckily, there was a few entrepreneurial locals up there selling chairs for €5-€10)
- Warm clothes (Even in May, it’s not warm before sunrise)
- Suncream and a hat (Maybe it’s just us northerners, but when that sun comes out, it’s well worth having some sun protection later in the day)
- Water and snacks
- Beer for the none-drivers (optional, but it’s a great party atmosphere)
- Portable phone charger
- Earplugs (if you plan on having a nap)
- A wide lens (if you’re bringing a camera - trust me, you can get closer than you think to the cars, we had to step back to get content with a 50mm lens)
What’s the Atmosphere Like?
Absolutely mad. We expected it to be busy, but what we saw was next-level. Whole nightclubs had been set up on the hills, complete with bars, lights, DJs, even pop-up shops and cafés. You’ll hear chants, see people waving flags, revving chainsaws, and having the time of their lives.
It’s proper festival vibes. And even though we weren’t in the mood to join in at 6am, we quickly got caught up in the energy.
Best Viewing Spots at Fafe
We started near the jump on the higher side for the first pass and then hiked over to a big rock overlooking the stage for the second. That was easily the best view we’ve ever had at a rally. If you’re willing to give some bouldering a go, we’d highly recommend trying to squeeze onto it.
What to Expect on the Day
Expect it to be busy, chaotic and unforgettable. Once the Rally1 cars come through, it’s about an hour or so of top-class action. Then you get another hour or so for the final stage (and the Power Stage) before the conclusion of the rally. You’ll be buzzing for hours afterwards.
We ended the day with a few well-earned beers, a swim, and an early night. But the memories? They’ll last forever.
Watch Our Full Trip to WRC Portugal
Want to see what Fafe Jump is really like? Check out our full vlog from WRC Portugal here: Watch on YouTube
Grab a Piece of the Action
If you're as hooked on rallying as we are, head over to rallystages.net. We’ve got rally posters, merch, and loads more to keep that rally buzz going long after the dust settles.
Final Tips
- Get there early
- Bring layers and supplies
- Explore the area for great views
- Soak in the atmosphere
Fafe is one for the bucket list. And if you’re thinking of going, do it. You won’t regret it.