Black Leopard of Laikipia “Giza Mrembo”.
THE RARE BLACK LEOPARD OF LAIKIPIA: “GIZA MREMBO”
January 16th 2026 | 5 minute Read
Laikipia has risen as one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife destinations, shaped in part by the presence of a rare black leopard known as Giza, also called “Giza Mrembo”, meaning “Beautiful Darkness” in Swahili. This legend moves in silence through the rocky outcrops and forests of Laikipia’s vast, untamed landscapes.
For travellers drawn by rarity rather than spectacle, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts, Laikipia offers one of the few genuine opportunities to witness this extraordinary creature in the wild, an encounter that defines a truly exceptional safari.
The Black Leopard
Black leopards are not a distinct species, but melanistic leopards (Panthera pardus pardus), distinguished by an excess of dark pigmentation caused by a rare genetic trait. Beneath the dark coat, the leopard’s recognizable rosette patterns remain visible in certain light, revealing its true identity.
While melanistic leopards are more frequently documented in parts of Asia, confirmed sightings in Africa are exceptionally rare. In Laikipia, their existence was spoken of in quiet stories long before it was proven. For years, local communities and guides shared accounts of a dark, elusive leopard moving through the landscape, tales that were finally substantiated when modern camera traps captured undeniable evidence of black leopards in the region.
The Story of “Giza Mrembo”
Giza Mrembo rose to global attention after being photographed in 2019, marking the first confirmed photographic evidence of a melanistic leopard in Africa in over a century. Raised in the Laikipia ecosystem, she adapted to a challenging environment shaped by droughts, open terrain, and shifting prey patterns.
Unlike many leopards, Giza has become relatively habituated to safari vehicles, allowing for rare and respectful viewing opportunities. She is one of Kenya’s most recognizable wildlife figures due to her serene demeanor, striking appearance, and elusiveness; she represents both mystery and successful conservation.
Why Laikipia Is Unique for Black Leopard Sightings
Laikipia’s appeal lies in its diverse habitats and conservation-led tourism model. This area is composed of private conservancies and community lands, which permits controlled access and ethical wildlife viewing in contrast to busier national parks. The following are some of the main benefits of Laikipia safaris:
Low vehicle density and exclusive sightings | Flexible safari activities, including off-road tracking | Strong conservation and community partnerships | Exceptional leopard density compared to many regions
These factors have created a unique environment where a black leopard like Giza can flourish, and be seen without disruption.
Best Time and Conditions to See the Black Leopard
While sightings are never guaranteed, time and patience make all the difference in Laikipia. This is a place that rewards slowing down, where staying a little longer often means seeing more, not because you’re chasing wildlife, but because you’re giving it space to reveal itself. From January to March and again between June and October, conditions are ideal. The dry season opens up visibility along riverbanks, wooded areas, and rocky terrain, exactly where leopards prefer to move quietly through the landscape
A few things we’ve learned on the ground
Spending at least three to five nights in Laikipia changes the experience completely. It allows guides to understand movement patterns, reduces the pressure to “find everything at once,” and creates room for those unplanned moments that often become the highlight of a safari. Camps that limit vehicle numbers, private or priority game drives, and early morning or late afternoon outings all quietly improve your chances.
This is also why we curate Laikipia carefully. Check out our laikipia packages here. Ethical operators here follow strict guidelines around sightings, ensuring the leopard’s wellbeing always comes first, keeping encounters rare, respectful, and unforced.
If Laikipia is calling, our Laikipia & Nanyuki packages have been designed with exactly this rhythm in mind: unrushed stays, thoughtfully chosen camps, and time built in for the kind of wildlife moments that can’t be scheduled. It’s the version of Laikipia we’d choose ourselves, patient, grounded, and quietly extraordinary.
More Than One Legend
While Giza Mrembo is the most famous, she is not alone. Over time, multiple melanistic leopards have been recorded within the wider Laikipia ecosystem, reinforcing the region’s status as one of the most exciting big-cat destinations in Africa. Beyond leopards, Laikipia is also home to:
Grevy’s zebra | Reticulated giraffe | African wild dogs | Elephants, lions, and rich birdlife
A safari here offers depth, diversity, and exclusivity, far beyond a single sighting.
At Holiday Bazaar, we believe in creating memorable and enriching travel experiences. A Safari with us is more than a vacation; it’s an intimate journey into the heart of the world’s most beautiful destinations, wrapped in luxury and personalised care. Ready for an adventure that combines relaxation with exploration? Book your Safari today!
