Lala palm safari co. logo
Curiosity Safaris
Safari Retreats

Kenya Black Leopard, Black Rhino & Chimpanzee Expedition

Lala Palm Safari Co.
From
$10000
Group Size
6 Guests
Duration
12 Days
Safari Date
November 2027

Location
Laikipia (Private Conservancy) & Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya

Overview

For decades, the possibility of encountering a black leopard in the wild in Africa was considered extraordinarily rare. Often called “black panthers,” these animals are not a separate species, but a melanistic variation of the African leopard caused by a rare recessive gene that produces excess melanin. While black leopards are more commonly associated with the dense forests of Asia, a remarkable population was confirmed in Laikipia in 2018 through groundbreaking camera-trap evidence, transforming the region into one of the most sought-after wildlife destinations in Africa. Over recent years, dedicated trackers, guides, and conservationists have spent countless hours studying the movements and territories of these elusive cats. Their patient and ethical approach has created one of the only places on the continent where relatively consistent black leopard sightings are now possible. As a result, Laikipia has become internationally renowned among photographers, filmmakers, and wildlife enthusiasts eager to witness one of Africa’s rarest predators. Beyond the black leopard, Laikipia itself is an exceptional safari destination. This vast and rugged ecosystem is characterised by dramatic escarpments, rocky kopjes, river systems, and sweeping savannahs, all supporting extraordinary biodiversity. Wildlife encounters may include African wild dog, lion, elephant, hyena, Grevy’s zebra, and reticulated giraffe, often experienced within private conservancies that allow flexible off-road driving and more immersive safari activities. The journey then continues south to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, one of East Africa’s leading conservation landscapes. Ol Pejeta is home to Kenya’s largest population of endangered black rhino and plays a vital role in rhino conservation across the continent. The conservancy also protects the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya where rescued chimpanzees can be observed living within a protected, semi-wild environment. Combining rare wildlife encounters with meaningful conservation experiences, this thoughtfully paced safari offers the opportunity to witness three of Africa’s most extraordinary species — the black leopard, black rhino, and chimpanzee — while exploring two of Kenya’s most important and beautiful wilderness regions.
Founder, Wellness & Curiosity Safari Guide

Dr Malvina Bartmanski

Malvina is the founder of Lala Palm Safari Co. She is an integrative clinical psychologist and author. She has over 20 years over wellness experiences and has brought this to the safari world. Malvina has a PhD in clinical psychology and when she is not on safari she is consulting in her integrative clinical psychology practice. Malvina is a trained naturalist, with a FGASA nature guide qualification, and wildlife photographer. She is passionate about crafting safaris that foster a reconnection to the natural world. She follows a spirit of ecopsychology, increasingly deepening her understanding of connection between humans and nature. Malvina’s passion is connecting people with a love of travel, adventure, nature and optimizing well-being through wellness-infused wildlife experiences.
Dr Malvina The Guide

Itinerary

Back to Retreats

Disclaimer

Please note that as these retreats and expeditions take place in nature, and nature is often unpredictable we cannot guarantee weather and wildlife viewings. Adaptations to itineraries may need to be made to ensure that we can provide the best possible experience for you. In the event of unforeseen circumstances and emergencies facilitators or guides may be substituted. Departures are not guaranteed as a minimum amount of guests are required for retreats to take place. Retreats and wellness experiences are not psychological or medical treatment.

Follow the Adventures

Respond to every call that excites your spirit Rumi

Lala Palm Safari Co.

malvina@lalapalmsafari.com 

Subscribe to our Newsletter

A little wilderness in your inbox - safari news, inspiration, and exclusive updates.