When packing for a safari, the number one question people often have is whether or not they should bring their binoculars. Obviously, the answer is heck yes! Enjoying the wildlife without a pair of the best binoculars for safari is like going to war without a gun. They’re an essential item to bring on safari when you travel as they help you to spot wildlife that’s far away. With these binoculars, you can easily spot a sneaking cheetah or a zebra drinking at a waterhole. Once you’ve used them, you’ll be hooked and won’t be able to go anywhere without them! That said, this article will show you all the best binoculars for safari holiday available on the market right now, so keep scrolling!
If you have the time, you might want to also check out the 13 best binoculars for whale watching, the 13 best binoculars for bird watching, and the 13 best binoculars for fishing!
How To Choose The Best Binoculars For Safari
Before we show you the list, here are the most important things to keep in mind when you’re doing the best binoculars for safari comparison:
Size and weight
Big and bulky binoculars are a big no. When looking for the best binoculars for safari, make sure that they’re compact and lightweight. That way, you can easily carry them around and they can fit your backpack.
Eye relief
Eye relief is the distance you need to keep your eyes from the eyepiece. More eye relief means less eye strain. Generally, the best binoculars for safari with 12mm are considered good. But if you wear glasses, a longer eye relief might be better.
Magnification
When it comes to the best binoculars for safari, bigger isn’t always better. While it’s extremely important to have some magnification for spotting the animals, having too much might lead to problems of image steadiness. That said, we recommend purchasing the best binoculars for safari holiday with a magnification of anything from 8x to 10x.
Objective size
The objective size indicates the diameter of the objective lens in mm. The larger the objective, the more detail you’ll be able to see. But, keep in mind that the downsides of larger lenses are that they tend to be heavier and cost more. A safe bet is to go with a 40 or 42mm objective.
Field of view
The field of view is the widest dimension you can see and is measured in feet over 1000 yards. A higher number means you’ll be able to see a wider area. If you’re planning to buy the best binoculars for safari, a higher field of view will be very useful as it makes it easier to aim and track the animals.
How much zoom do I need for a safari?
When using the best binoculars for safari, we recommend looking for a pair that has 8x to 10x magnification. That way, you can view the animals more clearly. If you want to opt for binoculars with higher magnification, make sure that they have an image stabilization feature.
Adorrgon 12×42 Powerful Binoculars
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The Adorrgon 12×42 Powerful Binoculars are, well, powerful. If you do the best binoculars for safari comparison, you’ll notice that these binoculars have a more powerful magnification than other options. That said, there might be a bit of shaking due to the high magnification, but if you have a tripod, it won’t be an issue. Aside from the 12x magnification, they also have a 42mm objective lens that helps you to see more clearly in the dark. Weighing only 1.1lbs, they’re incredibly lightweight.
Perfect for many activities, they’re shock-resistant and have an anti-slip grip. Plus, they’re also waterproof! What’s more, these binoculars are super popular. One of the biggest reasons why they’re fancied by many is because they’re super cheap. With everything these binos offer, they cost you less than 50USD! Yes, you read that right! So, what are you waiting for? Get your wallet ready and quickly purchase these best binoculars for safari holiday!
What We Love
A really super popular option with many useful features that costs you so little.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- High magnification
- Work well in low-light conditions
- Shock-resistant
- Anti-slip grip
Cons:
- No image stabilization feature
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Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars
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Another well-priced option that you’ll probably love is the Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars. As the best binoculars for safari holiday, they have a very interesting design that will delight everyone including your kids. We like the fast Close-Focus feature that makes it look as though we could touch the animals. These binoculars have a 26mm objective lens and a 10x magnification. Since the objective lens isn’t that large, note that these binos might not work very well in the dark.
These best binoculars for safari also feature Steiner High-Contrast coatings on every lens, giving you nothing but clear and ultra-sharp images, just like the name suggests. With these binos, nothing can stop you from having fun! For bad weather and rough conditions, they have a waterproof construction and rugged armoring that’s ready to absorb bumps and bashes. Furthermore, we also appreciate the fact that they come with a very handy padded carry case.
What We Love
They’re a solid device with high-quality images that comes in a small package.
Pros:
- Steiner High-Contrast coatings
- Waterproof
- Rubber-armored body
- Ergonomic eyecups
- Come with a padded travel case
Cons:
- No lens covers
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Steiner Optics Predator Series Binoculars
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If you consider yourself a professional, then you’ll totally love the Steiner Optics Predator Series Binoculars. Aside from being great for hunting, these binoculars are also suitable to view the wild game, making them one of the best binoculars for safari. The clarity, sharpness, and color of the images are top-notch. Plus, they have a 10x magnification and a large 42mm lens that will help you to see more clearly in low-light situations. There’s also the Color Adjusted Transmission system that amplifies the contrast, allowing you to spot game in difficult conditions.
These binoculars are exceptionally tough but light enough to carry around your neck. We also like the Fast Close-Focus focusing wheel that requires minimal rotation to quickly obtain a sharp view. As you might’ve guessed, this device is both waterproof and fog-proof. Another great perk is the ClicLoc system that attaches and releases the neck strap with a one-finger push button. If you do the best binoculars for safari comparison, you’ll definitely know just how amazing these binoculars really are.
What We Love
One of the best mid-range binoculars with many innovative features you can get on the market right now.
Pros:
- Work well in the dark
- Color Adjusted Transmission system
- Fast Close-Focus focusing wheel
- ClicLoc system
- Waterproof and fog-proof
Cons:
- Heavier than some of the best binoculars for safari
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Nikon 16000 PROSTAFF 7S 8×30 Inches Compact Binoculars
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Those who have a budget under 200USD will definitely find the Nikon 16000 PROSTAFF 7S 8×30 Inches Compact Binoculars a very good choice. At a reasonable price, these binoculars boast plenty of features that will excite you. Perfect for outdoor use, they feature a rubber-armored body that’ll protect against any kind of weather. It also protects these binoculars in the event of dropping or rough handling.
With a 30mm objective lens and an 8x magnification, the clarity and color of the images are unquestionable. You can easily see giraffes, impalas, crocs, and other animals with plenty of details from far away! Even better, these binoculars also have fully multilayer-coated lenses and phase correction-coated roof prisms. The eye relief is great, and there are also turn-and-slide rubber eyecups that allow eyeglass wearers to use these binos comfortably.
What We Love
They perform just as well, if not, better than other best binoculars for safari that cost more than 200USD.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to hold
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Adjustable eyecups
- Rubber-armored body
- Phase correction-coated roof prism
Cons:
- Might be too simple for professionals
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Carson 3D Series High Definition Waterproof Binoculars
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Next on this list is the Carson 3D Series High Definition Waterproof Binoculars. These amazing binos come with a 32mm objective lens and an 8x magnification. Similar to other best binoculars for safari, they also feature a BaK-4 roof prism system, which means they’re able to take a toll. Plus, they have a rubberized armor body and quality ED glass optics that make them an even more worthy purchase.
Additionally, these binoculars feature a long eye relief of 19.5mm and you can comfortably use them while wearing your glasses. Meanwhile, the central focus will ensure that they’re quick and convenient to use on the field. With a wide field of view, you can also easily view everything you want. If you do the best binoculars for safari comparison, you’ll most probably find these binoculars on your priority list.
What We Love
They boast all the essential features you’ll ever need for a safari.
Pros:
- Rubberized armor body
- Lightweight design
- Perform well in low-light situations
- BaK-4 roof prism system
- ED glass optics
Cons:
- Feel a bit plasticky
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Leupold BX-1 McKenzie Binoculars
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When looking for the best binoculars for safari, make sure not to skip the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie Binoculars. They feature a 42mm objective lens with 8x magnification, so there’s no need to question their quality. You can also significantly enhance your vision when you’re observing the wild or hunting. As expected, these binoculars come with fully multi-coated lenses that have roof prism construction.
Since they’re both waterproof and fog-proof, you don’t need to hesitate on using them when it’s raining. The rugged housing featuring armor coating on the outside will also further protect these binoculars and help you maintain a solid grip even in wet conditions. Meanwhile, the increased magnification makes these binos ideal for wide-open areas and picking out the small details. Another thing that we love about these lightweight binos is that they have decent eye relief and exit pupil.
What We Love
They’re the type of binoculars that can work well basically anywhere and for various activities.
Pros:
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Ergonomic and lightweight design
- Rubber-armored body
- Large exit pupil
Cons:
- Take a bit longer to focus
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Vortex Optics Viper HD Roof Prism Binoculars
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Do you have an extra budget to purchase the best binoculars for safari? If so, you might want to add the Vortex Optics Viper HD Roof Prism Binoculars to your shopping cart. Yes, this device is a higher-priced option that’s great for safari wildlife viewing, These binoculars come with a 10x magnification and 42mm lenses, which means you can see the animals with great detail and they can perform well in low-light conditions. These high-end binos are also compact and have an easy-to-grip rubber armored chassis. Personally, we love the thumb indents that prevent them from slipping out of our damp hands!
Furthermore, there are XR anti-reflective lens coatings that give super clear views even in dimmer light. The focus wheel in the middle is large and very easy to use. Even those who wear glasses will find these binoculars very comfortable to use. That’s because they have twist-up eyecups with rest comfortably against the face and provide customized eye relief. If you’re wondering, yes, they’re both waterproof and fog-proof too.
What We Love
Despite being more expensive, they come with plenty of top-notch features that help justify their price tag.
Pros:
- Rubber-armored chassis with thumb indents
- XR anti-reflective lens
- Perform well in low-light conditions
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Twist-up eyecups for customized eye relief
- Compact design
Cons:
- If you do the best binoculars for safari comparison, they’re more expensive
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Zeiss Terra ED Binoculars
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There are plenty of reasons why the Zeiss Terra ED Binoculars are loved by many. But among them, the biggest reason perhaps is their lightweight design. That’s because these binoculars feature the Schmidt-Pechan roof prism system that makes them very light and comfortable to carry around. You don’t have to worry about any large objective lenses here, because, with these binoculars, portability is at its best!
Yes, these best binoculars for safari only feature 25mm objective lenses. While these lenses make them very lightweight, you should know that it also means your viewing will be limited, especially in low-light situations. But on the other hand, you get to exploit a wider field of view angle of 52 degrees. Oh, the lenses also come with Zeiss MC coating, which will keep the images clear and the lenses safe from external elements. As the best binoculars for safari holiday, they’re fully waterproof and fog-proof.
What We Love
The best choice for those looking for lightweight binoculars for safari.
Pros:
- Fog-proof and waterproof
- Very compact and lightweight
- Schmidt-Pechan roof prism system
- Zeiss MC coating for clear viewing
- Wide field of view
- Portable design
Cons:
- Don’t perform well in the dark
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Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binoculars
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If you’re a die-hard Nikon fan, then you’ll probably want to equip yourself with the Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binoculars. Considered one of the best binoculars for safari, these binoculars come with a 42mm objective lens, which allows them to perform amazingly even in low-light situations. These Nikon binoculars also have a roof prism system that’s more resilient against any impacts. Speaking of impacts, the polycarbonate body will make this device even more durable, so don’t panic if you accidentally drop them.
These amazing binoculars boast high-quality ED glass with multi-coatings to deliver nothing but sharp images wherever you point them. That’s not all, as we’re also really surprised by how realistic the color rendition is. No more washed-out images! Furthermore, there’s an 8x magnification and a wide field of view that will make your experience with these binoculars even better. Plus, the construction makes them useful for a variety of conditions as they’re waterproof and fog-proof.
What We Love
A highly recommended option that can perform well in all conditions at an affordable price.
Pros:
- Highly durable
- Waterproof and fog-proof construction
- Wide field of view
- BaK-4 roof prism
- Twist locking eyecups
- Long eye relief
Cons:
- Fixed magnification keeps the close focus limited
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SWAROVSKI EL 10×42 Binoculars
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We know, there are plenty of expensive binoculars out there. But, if you do the best binoculars for safari comparison, we guarantee that nothing is more costly than the SWAROVSKI EL 10×42 Binoculars. If you have the fortune to spend, why don’t you spoil yourself and try out these high-end binoculars that are designed for moguls? At this high price, you can expect nothing but the best. Even without knowing the features, people will already be jealous of you after knowing how much these binos cost.
These binoculars come with a large 42mm objective lens and a 10x magnification, offering you crystal-clear and sharp images even in low light. The set comes with plenty of accessories too, including a field bag, eyepiece cover, objective lens cover, and lift carrying strap. As one of the best binoculars for safari, they’re waterproof with a submersion tightness up to 13 feet deep. Like most Swarovski models, these binoculars have a Swarovski Optic Lifetime Warranty.
What We Love
They’re the best buy if you want a pair of high-end binoculars with top-notch features that will put you in the spotlight.
Pros:
- Exceptional clear views
- Work well in low-light conditions
- Waterproof up to 13 feet deep
- Come with many accessories
- Swarovski Optic Lifetime Warranty
- Easy to hold and focus
Cons:
- Super duper expensive
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HAWKE Endurance Binoculars
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Another pair of the best binoculars for safari is none other than the HAWKE Endurance Binoculars. These binoculars feature a 32mm objective lens with 8x magnification, allowing you to zoom in on objects and see them clearly. Having fog and waterproofing also means that you can use them in varying weather conditions. Be it stormy or just a light rain, there’s no need to afraid as they’re designed to be durable.
Furthermore, these best binoculars for safari holiday also come with a long eye relief of 18mm, so you can use them comfortably even when you’re wearing your glasses. Of course, they’re equipped with a BaK-4 roof prism for durability and their lenses have fully multi-coated layers to make sure they can take on the outdoors. Along with a decent exit pupil of 4mm and a wide field of view, these binoculars promise to provide you amazing views of the surroundings of your target. Because of that, you can also use them for bird watching and hunting as well.
What We Love
The clarity, sharpness, and brightness are excellent for this price range.
Pros:
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Wide field of view
- BaK-4 roof prism
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Great eye relief
- Multi-purpose
Cons:
- No anti-glare features
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Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binoculars
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Of course, we can’t just leave the Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binoculars out of this list! As one of the best binoculars for safari, these binoculars are very great for sightseeing as they feature a pair of high-quality 42mm objective lenses. Along with a large exit pupil of 5.25mm, they can also perform really well in low-light conditions. That way, you can go have an adventure at night or even dawn. There’s also a central focus mechanism that makes them very easy to focus.
Apart from that, these incredible binoculars also have roof prism construction to ensure robust performance. Speaking of which, the rubber-armored body will ensure better gripping and impact resistivity. Meanwhile, the fully multi-coated lenses and BaK-4 prism have a comfortable eye relief that allows you to use them even when you’re wearing your eyeglasses. Have we told you that they’re also waterproof and fog-proof?
What We Love
They’re one of the most affordable options that work super well in the dark.
Pros:
- Long eye relief
- Large exit pupil for better light transmission
- Wide field of view
- Anti-slip grip
- Multi-coated lenses
- BaK-4 prism
- Waterproof and fog-proof
Cons:
- Slightly heavy to hold for long hours
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Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars
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You shouldn’t be surprised to know that the Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars are the best binoculars for safari. Also one of the best binoculars for hunting, these impressive binoculars come with a roof prism system for durable performance in the outland safari and a great eye relief of 16mm as well as an exit pupil of 4mm. Apart from that, there’s also a wide field of view angle of 8.1 degrees. To allow you to have a comfortable viewing, these binoculars have adjustable eyecups. All you need to do is just twist them up and down.
Similar to other best binoculars for safari holiday, these binos’ lenses have fully multi-coated layers and a central focus. Although they’re not fog-proof, you can still use them in the water without any issue. Plus, the center wheel can adjust the focus of both barrels at the same time, which is pretty amazing. Moreover, these binoculars come with an Armoretk finish so that they can hold really well in the outdoors.
What We Love
Considering all these binoculars offer, they’re the best purchase for the money.
Pros:
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof construction
- Wide field of view
- Adjustable eyecups
- Central focus makes them user-friendly
- Armortek finish
- Work well in low-light conditions
Cons:
- Not fog-proof
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