The Black Panther, often shrouded in mystery and myth, is not a separate species but a melanistic leopard, characterised by an overproduction of dark pigmentation due to a genetic variation. Unlike regular leopards, whose coats are golden with black rosettes, melanistic leopards appear black, though their spots are faintly visible in good light. This rare and elusive creature can be photographed during a thrilling photography safari at Ol Doinyo Lemboro Ranch in the Laikipia wilderness of Kenya.
This safari offers much more than just the Black Panther—guests will also have opportunities to photograph other rare and captivating species such as African wild dogs, striped hyenas, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, and Vulturine guineafowls. The ranch is also home to lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, and various antelope species, enriching the wildlife photography experience.
Activities available include shared game drives, early night drives, walking safaris, wild dog tracking, fly-camping, mountain biking, bush meals, fishing, river swimming and rafting when water levels allow. This combination of rare wildlife and immersive wilderness activities makes Ol Doinyo Lemboro an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers seeking unique encounters.
Day 1: Into the Black Panther’s Realm
Arrive at Ol Doinyo Lemboro Ranch, nestled in the heart of Laikipia's rugged wilderness. After settling in, meet your safari guide and enjoy a welcome briefing about the region’s rare wildlife and the elusive melanistic leopard, commonly known as the Black Panther. After lunch and a briefing, embark on your first game drive as the sun dips low, scanning the hills and dense thickets for signs of the elusive Black Panther. Keep your camera ready—this is prime dusk hunting time. You'll also encounter elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and vibrant birds like vulturine guineafowls. As darkness falls, the night drive begins, offering a rare chance to photograph nocturnal creatures like striped hyenas and lions under a spotlight.
Day 2: Eyes in the Darkness
Start your day with an early morning game drive, focusing on tracking signs of the Black Panther—fresh paw prints, scratch marks, and scat. Laikipia’s varied terrain offers dramatic backdrops for photography, with Grevy’s zebras, elephants, and antelopes roaming nearby. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided bush walk to study the landscape that hides such an elusive predator. After a relaxed bush dinner, head out on a second night drive, where thermal scopes and spotlighting increase your chances of capturing the panther’s glowing eyes and sleek silhouette moving through the darkness.
Day 3: Where Shadows Hunt
Dedicate the morning to photographing Laikipia’s birds—from colourful starlings to the regal vulturine guineafowl. After breakfast, follow up on recent sightings of the Black Panther. Your guide and tracker will lead you deep into favoured territories, possibly offering rare daylight photo opportunities. Encounter other predators such as lions or striped hyenas along the way. As sunset paints the sky, prepare for a thrilling dusk-to-night game drive, a prime window for observing the panther’s stealthy movement. Tonight could be the moment your lens captures a living legend beneath the moonlight.
Day 4: Tracks and Tails
On this day, engage in wild dog tracking, exploring the ranch’s diverse habitats on foot and by vehicle. The morning light offers a softer tone for photographing Grevy’s zebras, buffalo, and giraffes. As the sun sets, return to the search for the Black Panther, revisiting locations from earlier sightings. With patience and persistence, you may catch a dramatic silhouette or hunting scene. Later, gather around the campfire to review photos, share stories, and listen for the distant sounds of night, perhaps even the raspy call of the panther echoing through the bush.
Day 5: Farewell to the Black Phantom
Your final day begins with a hearty bush breakfast with scenic views of the ranch’s rugged terrain and wildlife. As you leave Ol Doinyo Lemboro, you’ll carry with you not just photographs, but the thrill of having pursued one of Africa’s rarest and most captivating creatures. Whether it’s a fleeting shape, glowing eyes, or a perfect photograph, the memory will be unforgettable. The mystery and majesty of this rare creature—and the raw wilderness that surrounds it—will stay with you long after the safari ends.
What is included in the tour
- Transport from Nairobi back
- All Park fees.
- Accommodation
- Full-board meal plan
- AMREF Emergency Evacuation
- Drinking Water
- Highly credentialed safari guide
What is NOT included in the tour
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Personal trekking gear i.e Sleeping bags, warm clothing, etc
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Tips: The tipping guideline of $10 per person per day for the guide and crew
