August 12

Lewis Hamilton in Africa: “A life-changing Reset”

August 12, 2022

F1 superstar Sir Lewis Hamilton is tracing his roots to Africa. The seven-time world champion recently swapped his cockpit and hot asphalt for the vast open plains of Namibia and Kenya, as well as the rainforests of Rwanda. Find out more about Hamilton's travel destinations and life-changing off-road adventures below. 

Lewis Hamilton exploring orange dunes in Namibia

Find out more about Lewis Hamilton's travels to Africa, Image Credit: Lewis Hamilton/Instagram

Reconnecting with his roots, the 37-year-old sportsman is currently spending his holiday on our beloved continent. Together with his brothers, Hamilton is exploring three of the most breathtaking highlights Africa has to offer.

"This year, I'm spending my summer break doing something I've wanted to do for years. I'm finally tracing my roots through Africa, and guys, to say this journey has been a grounding experience is an understatement. This has been a life-changing reset," the British racing driver posted on Instagram. 

Lewis Hamilton: His Most Exciting Ride Yet

His African itinerary started in Namibia, where Hamilton took to the skies in a hot air balloon through the Sossusvlei area.

Lewis Hamilton enjoying the aerial views in Namibia

Lewis Hamilton taking in the views, Image Credit: Lewis Hamilton/Instagram

"My first stop was Namibia, one of the most stunning places I've ever seen with my own eyes. Words and pictures do not do it justice. The hot air balloon ride was surreal. We had to land sideways, which is definitely something I'll never forget. I could not think of a better place to spend this time off."
Namibia's stunning red dunes

Namibia's stunning landscapes

Namibia is one of our most popular travel destinations in Southern Africa. Have a look at our tour ideas to start planning your own tailor-made adventure in the desert.

Besides hot air ballooning at sunrise, you can explore the dunes on a guided nature drive or walk. There are so many little wonders to discover and, surprisingly, many desert-adapted animals to admire. While staying at one of the best lodges in the Namib Desert, you can also look forward to one of the best stargazing experiences on the planet.

Second Stop: Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Well, Namibia isn't the only destination on Hamilton's travel list. In Rwanda, he embarked on one of Africa's biggest adventures – gorilla trekking. And just like our guests, he was wowed by the experience.

Young gorilla making eye-contact - Lewis Hamilton in Africa

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an unparalleled experience

"How does one describe such an experience that leaves you so speechless? My second stop was Rwanda. We were welcomed with smiles and music from the beautiful Rwandan people. This trip really showed me how diverse and rich in culture it is here. We hiked up through beautiful green fields where children would sing to us and up a volcano where we found gorillas. What a sight it was to see them in their natural habitat relaxed and protected by the community around them. This is where they should be, in their own homes, free to live their lives in peace. It was a profound and truly moving experience. I'm in love with this country. Thank you for having us, I can't wait to come back."

Final Stop: Kenya

Last but not least, Lewis Hamilton and his family travelled to Kenya, where he witnessed the Great Migration. This time of year, the giant wildebeest, zebra and antelope herds leave the Serengeti in Tanzania and head north. Before they reach the Maasai Mara National Reserve, they must cross the Mara River – always a spectacular sighting! For the ultimate East Africa experience, take a look at these tour ideas.

Wildebeest make several dangerous river crossings during the Great Migration

Annual river crossings make for some of the most exhilarating spectacles

Let’s Protect Africa’s Wildlife

While exploring Kenya, Hamilton also visited an animal sanctuary. Protecting Africa's wildlife and saving endangered species from extinction is one of core purposes here at Rhino Africa.

"Thank you to the wonderful people at the Reteti Animal Sanctuary for not only hosting us but, more importantly, dedicating their time to rescue, research and conservation. They're the first indigenous community owned and run sanctuary in Africa, and the work they do for these animals should be an inspiration to us all. They take in orphaned animals who likely wouldn't make it on their own and release them back into the wild when they're strong enough. This was a truly centering experience, one that reinforces that we all share this planet. We're not above animals, we're with them. More often, we're guests in their homes. Every day in the motherland is more beautiful than the last."

Reconnecting with Family, Reconnecting with Africa

A trip to Africa is a life-changing event. Even for a world champion.

"I feel like I have gained a new perspective on life, grown an even stronger love for animals and became even closer with my brothers who I've shared this special journey with. Everywhere I look, I'm surrounded by so much beauty, and I feel truly re-centred and at peace," explains Lewis Hamilton on his Instagram account.
Lewis Hamilton visiting a local Maasai tribe in Kenya

Lewis Hamilton visiting the local Pokot people, Image Credit: @soo_ochieng/Twitter

Would you like to follow in Hamilton's footsteps? Contact our Travel Experts today to start planning your dream holiday in Africa. We can't wait to welcome you to our amazing continent!

About Rhino Africa

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About the author 

Katharina Mandy

Katharina is a Journalist/Content Writer from Hamburg, Germany. She's been living in Cape Town and Germany for more than four years. The jet-setter life was fun, but now she's looking forward to unpacking her suitcases for good and settling down. Katharina is a team player and she's very excited to be part of the Rhino Crash. She first came to the rainbow nation in 2010, when she completed a semester at Stellenbosch University. She immediately fell in love with South Africa, and a very handsome surfer, in particular. Hiking, sailing, cooking, and eating are her favourite activities when she's not wielding a pen.

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