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Nairobi, Kenya (NBO) / Nairobi, Kenya (NBO)
9 Days/8 Nights
Level 1 - What's This?
Up To 8 Guests
Famous Black Leopards: Take a night safari to experience rare sightings of these melanistic cats!
Laikipia Wilderness Camp: Capture the raw beauty of Kenya on a wildlife safari situated in the heart of the Laikipia Plateau.
See the Big 5 of Africa & More: This camp is home to lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos, as well as other species like Grevy's zebras, Beisa oryxes, reticulated giraffes, and wild dogs.
Sustainable Tourism: Laikipia Wilderness Camp practices eco-friendly tourism and is involved in community initiatives.
Get ready for the ultimate wildlife photography experience with Backcountry Journeys on an exclusive safari that offers an almost guaranteed opportunity to capture the elusive black leopards of Kenya. Nestled deep within the remote Laikipia Plateau, Laikipia Wilderness Camp is a haven for photographers, providing access to one of Africa's most pristine and untouched wilderness areas. To maximize your time in this extraordinary location, we've arranged a private charter flight, ensuring you spend less time traveling and more time in the field, camera in hand.
Laikipia is world-renowned for its black leopards, one of the rarest and most captivating sights in the animal kingdom. These melanistic cats, first famously captured on camera by Will Burrard-Lucas in 2019, have made Laikipia their home, and this trip offers a unique opportunity to photograph them. A particular female black leopard, born and raised just 100 meters from the camp, is regularly sighted and remarkably relaxed around vehicles. With expertly guided early morning and night safaris, complete with red-filtered spotlights to minimize disturbance, you’ll have unrivaled chances to capture these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
But the excitement doesn't stop with the black leopards. Laikipia is teeming with wildlife, offering spectacular encounters with Africa’s Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos—as well as other iconic species like Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and wild dogs. The diverse landscapes, ranging from rolling hills and open plains to dense forests and winding rivers, create a breathtaking backdrop for your photography. Our expert guides, with their deep knowledge of the area and its wildlife, will position you perfectly to seize the most dynamic and intimate shots.
In addition to wildlife, Laikipia presents incredible opportunities for landscape and cultural photography. The dramatic African sunrises and sunsets bathe the savannah in golden light, creating unforgettable moments to capture. You'll also have the chance to visit local Maasai villages, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of the indigenous people, adding another rich layer to your photographic journey.
Laikipia Wilderness Camp is dedicated to sustainable tourism, ensuring that your photography adventure leaves a minimal footprint. The camp’s eco-friendly practices and strong community ties mean that your experience not only captures the beauty of this remarkable region but also contributes to its preservation. This Backcountry Journeys safari is more than just a photography trip—it’s an unforgettable adventure, promising a portfolio of awe-inspiring images and the satisfaction of supporting conservation in one of Africa’s last great wildernesses.
All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
All transportation during the workshop
Charter flight from Nairobi to an airstrip near the camp
All lodging during the workshop
Airport transfers
All permits and park fees
Professional photography guiding and instruction
Gratuity for service staff and drivers
Flights to and from Nairobi, Kenya (JKIA)
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance (required) - see plans here.
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1 (Arrival Day) (D)
Upon arrival at the airport, you'll be transferred to our hotel in Nairobi. We'll have an orientation and welcome dinner starting at 5 pm.
Day 2 (B, L, D)
We'll meet for an early breakfast then our group will have a private charter flight waiting for us at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya (JKIA). The flight will take us to the Sosian Ranch Airstrip and then the Laikipia Wilderness Camp will transfer us to their camp (approximately 30 minutes). When we arrive at the camp, we'll enjoy a meal then begin our photo safari adventure!
Days 3 - 8 (B, L, D)
Prepare for a week of unparalleled wildlife photography at Laikipia Wilderness Camp, where the abundance of wildlife offers endless opportunities to capture Africa’s most iconic species. Laikipia is home to the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos—along with a host of other fascinating animals such as Grevy's zebras, Beisa oryxes, reticulated giraffes, and wild dogs. Our private, specially tailored vehicles are designed specifically for black leopard sightings, ensuring that you have the best possible chances to photograph these rare and elusive cats. With expert guides who excel at tracking and positioning, you’ll be perfectly situated to capture these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Laikipia is one of the few places in the world where black leopards are regularly spotted, with sightings occurring on average 5 out of 7 nights at the camp. During our 7-night stay, you’ll have multiple opportunities to photograph these elusive melanistic cats, along with the region's other incredible wildlife. The ability to go off-road in certain areas allows us to get up close to the action, ensuring you capture intimate and dynamic shots that will make your portfolio truly stand out.
Day 9 (B)
After breakfast, Laikipia Wilderness Camp will transfer us to the Sosian Ranch Airstrip where we'll take a private charter flight back to Nairobi. We'll say goodbye to all the friends we met on this trip, and we'll take home with us a treasure trove of photos and memories from this life-changing destination!
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.