Collection: Binoculars for safari

How to choose binoculars for safari?

The right binoculars will bring every jaw-dropping detail into focus—from a lion's mane to the stripes on a zebra. Here’s your quick, no-fuss guide to picking binoculars that are perfect for your safari adventure.

What is the best magnification for safari binoculars?

Magnification is key. For safari, 8x or 10x hits the sweet spot:

8x magnification gives you a broad view, which helps you spot animals as they move across the landscape. It’s stable and perfect for bumpy jeep rides.

10x magnification zooms in closer, making it great for viewing animals from a distance. Ideal for open plains but needs a steady hand.

Stick with 8x or 10x. Higher magnification may sound tempting, but it narrows your field of view and makes it harder to track fast-moving animals.

Is Porro prism or roof prism better?

Prism type is the next big choice. Binoculars come in two main types: roof prisms and porro prisms.

Roof prisms are compact and sturdy, making them easy to handle and durable for rough terrain.

Porro prisms are bulkier but provide great depth perception, which helps gauge distance. They’re also more budget-friendly.

For safari, roof prisms are worth it if you need something tough and travel-friendly.

Keep it light

A safari can mean hours of holding up binoculars, so keep the weight manageable. Look for something between 500-850 grams to avoid arm fatigue.

Use a neck strap or harness. This helps distribute the weight and keeps your binoculars handy for those spontaneous sightings.

Don't discount a close focus distance

Most safari views will be at a distance, but close focus distance is still a useful feature. Some animals, like smaller birds or reptiles, may be closer to your vehicle. Binoculars with a close focus distance around 8 feet will give you crisp, detailed views, even up close.

Choose high quality optics

Quality is everything. Cheap lenses can lead to washed-out coloUrs or blurry images—not ideal when trying to see every stripe and spot. Consider for multi-coated lenses for vibrant, sharp images and better contrast in bright sunlight.

Phase-corrected coatings are also important to reduce glare and give true-to-life colours, so every detail stands out.

What is the best binocular lens size for safari?

Lens size affects both brightness and weight. You’ll usually see binoculars listed with two numbers, like 8x42 or 10x50. The second number is the lens diameter in milimeters:

42mm lenses are a great choice for safari, offering enough light for clear views even at dawn or dusk, when many animals are active.

32mm lenses are lighter and more compact, though they may struggle in low light. They’re good for daytime safaris.

Bigger lenses (50mm and up) will be heavier, but they let in more light. Choose what suits your comfort level and viewing needs.

Summary

The best safari binoculars strike a balance between magnification, weight, and lens quality. With the right pair, you’ll catch every thrilling moment of your safari, from sweeping landscapes to the smallest details.

Ready to gear up for you safari holiday? Explore our range of safari binoculars for sale.