South Garda Karting Lonato: Adrenaline and Speed on Lake Garda

In the heart of the moraine hills of Lake Garda, a few kilometres from Desenzano del Garda, lies the South Garda Karting of Lonato, one of the most prestigious and renowned kart circuits in Europe. Since 1988, this track has been offering Formula 1 thrills to professional drivers and enthusiasts of all ages, combining the excellence of a CIK-FIA homologated track with the possibility of rental open to all.

The Circuit: History and Characteristics

The Origins

South Garda Karting was inaugurated in 1988 designed by Surveyor Angelo Corberi, with the ambition of creating a facility that could host high-level international competitions. Over the years the circuit has grown and evolved, becoming one of the world's most important karting tracks.

Technical Specifications

The circuit has technical features that make it perfect for both official competitions and amateur fun:
Length1,200 metres
Medium width9-10 metres
Homologation: CIK-FIA (International Karting Federation)
Tribunescapacity of up to 2,000 spectators
Directionclockwise
Curves: technical and spectacular layout

The Renewed Route

The circuit has recently been renovated to offer even more excitement and technical challenges. The track is designed to ensure spectacular overtaking, challenging corners and straights where you can unleash pure speed.
Among the most characteristic curves:

The entrance bend to the right to be tackled at full throttle
La curve 2 high-speed braking at 80%
Le technical variants requiring precision and control
The finishing straight where maximum speeds are reached

Kart Hire: Fun for All

Available Kart Types

South Garda Karting offers different types of karts for hire to meet all requirements:
Mini Kart (children):

4-stroke 120cc engine
Maximum speed: 40 km/h
Minimum height: 130 cm
Minimum age: 8 years
Price: €15.00 for 10 timed minutes

Kart Normal (adults):

Engine 4-stroke 200cc - 6 hp
Maximum speed: 60 km/h
Minimum height: 150 cm
Price: €15.00 for 10 timed minutes

Kart Sport (experts only):

4-stroke engine 10 hp
Maximum speed: 80 km/h
Minimum age: 15 years
Required experience
Price: €20.00 for 10 timed minutes

Two-seater karts:

Engine 4-stroke 270cc - 9 hp
Maximum speed: 60 km/h
Ideal for adult + child
Price: €20.00 for 10 timed minutes

Membership Service

For regular visitors, the membership service at a cost of €5.00 per year (valid until the end of the year). Benefits include:

For every 10 rides, 1 free ride (excluding competitions)
Emailing your lap times
Publication of results and personal records on the site
Customised statistics

Equipment Included

The rental price includes:

Kart of the chosen category
Helmet homologated in various sizes
Technical assistance on the track
Timekeeping of laps
Insurance

Competitions and Special Events

International Competitions

South Garda Karting is the scene of numerous international competitions of the highest level:

Winter Cup: prestigious winter competition
Andrea Margutti Trophyone of the most participated races in the world (37 editions)
Italian Championships of karting
European Championships FIA
World Championships in the different categories
IAME Series: round of the international championship

During these events you can watch spectacular races with top international drivers, many of them future Formula 1 champions.

Corporate and Private Tenders

The circuit organises customised events for groups and companies:
Corporate Team Building:

Competition between colleagues
Professional Timekeeping
Real-time rankings
Final Awards
Catering service on request

Private Events:

Birthdays
Stag/bachelorette parties
Graduation parties
Anniversaries
Customised incentives

For private tenders, a minimum of 10 participants. The service includes:

Official Timekeeping
Medical Service
Technical Assistance
Catering (optional)
Awards

Services and Facilities

The Paddock

The large equipped paddock offers space for professional teams and private pilots:

Covered boxes
Service areas
Charging points
Equipment storage
Kart washing areas

MP KART Shop

Inside the complex is the MP KART shop, reference point for enthusiasts:

Complete karts
Spare parts and components
Technical clothing
Helmets and protectors
Tyres
Technical Assistance

Bar-Restaurant

Le grandstands host a comfortable bar-restaurant with a panoramic view of the slope:

Breakfasts
Quick lunches
Aperitifs
A la carte menu
Event catering service
Outdoor terrace

Parking spaces

The circuit has ample free parking spaces with direct access to the entrance area and the grandstands.

Practical Information

Rental Opening Hours

Opening hours vary throughout the year. For up-to-date information, please consult the official website or contact the facility directly.
Summer period (indicative):
Generally open every day with extended hours
Winter period:
Reduced hours, see
Administrative Offices:
Monday-Friday: 10:00-12:30 / 14:00-17:00

How to Reach the Circuit

Address: Via Corte Ferrarini, snc - 25017 Lonato del Garda (BS)
By Car:

A4 motorway: exit Desenzano del Garda (5 km from the toll station)
Follow the signs for Lonato
GPS: set “South Garda Karting Lonato”.”

Parkingfree and extensive at the

Safety Standards

To ensure the safety of all participants:

Assessment of suitability: the management reserves the right to assess suitability for driving
Mandatory briefingbefore entering the track
Behaviour on the trackrespect for the rules and other pilots
Damagein the event of damage to the kart, persons or facilities the race is suspended

The Driving Experience

For Beginners

If it is your first time on a kart, South Garda Karting is the perfect place to start:

Initial briefing: explanation of controls and track behaviour
Assistanceexperienced staff ready to help you
Easy-to-drive kartsProgressive speed control
Homogeneous groupsmaximum 10 people per session

For Experienced Pilots

Experienced pilots can choose the Kart Sport 10 hp to experience more intense emotions:

Burning acceleration
Maximum speed of 80 km/h
Millimetre accuracy required
Ability to constantly improve times

Tips for Better Timing

Turn 1 (right-hand bend):

Tackling at full throttle
Widening the initial trajectory
Skimming the kerbs without going on the dirt
Avoid sliding the rear end

Turn 2 (fast to the right):

Braking at 80% of power
Fundamental braking point
Re-accelerating in mid-corner
Staying close to the inner kerb

General technique:

Driving fluidity
Trajectory optimisation
Intelligent use of kerbs
Tyre grip management

Why Choose South Garda Karting

Circuit Quality

CIK-FIA homologationinternational standard
Technical layoutcurve after curve keeps you focused
Constant maintenanceasphalt in perfect condition
Certified securityprotection and escape routes

Modern and Reliable Karts

4-stroke enginesreliable and performing
Regular maintenanceFrequent checks
Different powersfrom beginner to expert
Easy to driveIntuitive controls

Strategic Location

Proximity to Lake Garda: 8 km from Desenzano
Easy access: close to the A4 motorway
Tourist areaperfect for a different day
Hilly territorybreathtaking views

Combinations of Visits

South Garda Karting combines perfectly with other attractions in the area:
Morning karting + Afternoon at the lake:
After the adrenaline rush of the track, relax on the beaches of Desenzano or Sirmione
Culture and Sport:
San Martino della Battaglia Tower (5 km) + Karting
Food and wine:
Karting tour + Tasting in Lugana wine cellars
Sports weekend:
Karting + Mountain biking in the moraine hills

Special Events and Demonstrations

Competition Calendar

Throughout the year, the circuit hosts events of international significance. The calendar 2026 includes:

IAME RoundMay and August
Andrea Margutti Trophy: March
Winter CupJanuary-February
National championships: various dates
IAME Final Games: November

During these events, access to the rental may be restricted. Always consult the calendar before planning your visit.

Night Races

Some competitions take place in night, creating a spectacular atmosphere with the illuminated track and the sparks from the karts whizzing by in the dark.

Where to Stay Near the Circuit

A Casa di Sabina is the ideal solution for those visiting South Garda Karting. Only 8 km from the circuit, our holiday flats offer the perfect balance between proximity to the action and tranquillity for rest.
After a day of pure adrenalin on the track, the return to our modern flats relaxes the muscles in the swimming pool/strong>, surrounded by the green moraine hills. The serene and comfortable environment is ideal for recovering your energy before a new driving session or for exploring the other attractions of Lake Garda.
The strategic location of A Casa di Sabina makes it easy to combine sport, culture and relaxation. Discover our holiday flats o contact us to organise your stay at speed.

Practical Advice for the Visit

Recommended clothing

Closed shoes: compulsory (no sandals or flip-flops)
Long trousers: recommended for protection
T-shirt or sweatshirtDepending on the season
Tied hairfor those with long hair
Eyeglassescan be worn under the helmet

When to Go

Weekdaysless crowding, reduced waiting
Weekendlivelier atmosphere, possible competitions
Early morning: less crowded runway
Recommended periodsspring and autumn for ideal climate

Reservations

Standard hire generally does not require a reservation:

Large groups: booking recommended
Corporate events: reservation required
Summer weekends: possible waiting

Security and Regulation

Standards of Conduct

To ensure safety and fun for all:

Follow the directions staff
Respecting other pilots on the track
Do not perform dangerous overtaking
FlagsKnowing and respecting the signs
Voluntary impact: results in exclusion from the race

Age and Height Limits

Mini Kartminimum 8 years and 130 cm
Normal Kartminimum 150 cm high
Kart Sportminimum 15 years and experience
Two-seater kartsaccompanying adult required for minors

Contact and Information

South Garda Karting
Via Corte Ferrarini, snc
25017 Lonato del Garda (BS)
Phone: +39 030 9130334
Email: info@southgardakarting.it
Website: www.southgardakarting.it
Social Media:

Facebook: South Garda Karting (28,000+ followers)
Instagram: @southgardakarting (21,000+ followers)

Conclusion

The South Garda Karting represents a unique experience for those visiting Lake Garda. Whether you are a professional driver looking for a technical and challenging circuit, an enthusiast wanting to improve your times or simply a family looking for different thrills, this facility will give you unforgettable moments.
The combination of a world-class circuit, state-of-the-art facilities, competent staff and a strategic location between the lake and the moraine hills makes South Garda Karting a must for anyone who loves speed and adrenaline.
Come and experience the thrill of speeding down one of the most beautiful slopes in Europe, just a few kilometres from the wonders of Lake Garda!