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The 5 Best Binoculars for Safari of 2024

This crucial piece of visual equipment will enhance your safari experience.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

When you're creating a packing list for your safari, there's one item you should be sure to add: a pair of binoculars. "Binoculars are a key piece of equipment while on safari,” Lisa Roberti, wildlife photographer and safari expert, says. “Although sometimes the wildlife can get close, depending on where you are, oftentimes, they are a bit farther away. Binoculars will give you the ability to see them and watch their behavior." 

While the premise of binoculars is simple — they magnify your vision — they're fairly complicated pieces of technology with quite a few specs. "Binoculars come in handy when you are searching for animals,” Roberti says. “Although your guide has eagle eyes, the more eyes searching for wildlife, the better your safari can be." To help you understand what to look for in binoculars, so you never miss a moment on safari, we've collected the best options as well as decoded what all those numbers mean in a binocular's name.

Best Overall

Zeiss 10x42 terra ed binoculars.

They're fairly lightweight and have exceptionally crisp optics.

The focus wheel is sensitive, so your settings may change if you aren’t careful.

When choosing binoculars for safari, you'll want a pair that offers the best optics in a tough yet lightweight package to handle all sorts of conditions out in the bush. That's precisely what you'll find in the Zeiss Terra ED 10x42. Zeiss, as a brand, is well regarded for its high-end optics, but this pair of binoculars fits into the mid-tier price range. The image produced by the lenses is crystal clear and highly accurate in terms of coloration, which is a key consideration for birders. And it also performs well in low light — since most game drives happen around dawn and dusk, you'll want binoculars that hold up to snuff in this regard. What's more, the binoculars are lightweight for their size, and they're waterproof, fogproof, and housed in a durable chassis.

The Details: 1.5 pounds | 10x magnification | 42-millimeter objective lens diameter | 330 feet at 1,000 yards | 18-millimeter eye relief | Waterproof | Weatherproof

Best Budget

Nikon aculon a211 8×42.

They’re lightweight and provide a bright image. 

They're a little bulky and are not waterproof.

The Nikon 8245 Aculon A211 8x42 BInoculars provide a bright image with a fairly wide field of view, though the clarity and color do warp a bit around the edges. For new or infrequent users, this is a great value buy as you'll still be able to see animals up close through these binoculars, particularly if you're looking at the center of the image. But do keep in mind that these binoculars aren't waterproof, so you'll want to take care using them in adverse conditions. They're also a touch heavy, but not so much so that they're overly cumbersome.

The Details: 2.38 pounds | 8x magnification | 42-millimeter objective lens diameter | 314 feet at 1,000 yards | 11.6-millimeter eye relief

Best High-magnification

Swarovski optik nl pure 8x42.

The optics are unparalleled with an extraordinarily wide field of view.

These are an investment piece that are best for frequent users.

Swarovski crafts binoculars with impeccable optics that are truly top-of-the-line when it comes to clarity, brightness, color accuracy, and low-light performance; the image you see through the binoculars is not discernibly distorted in any way. If you are willing to splurge on the best binoculars out there, this is your pair. They can function between -13 and 131 degrees Fahrenheit for use in various environments and have a submersion tightness of 13 feet, so if you drop them in any water, they'll be safe. You can also buy a compatible forehead rest to help stabilize your image, though that may not be a necessary accessory.

The Details: 1.8 pounds | 8x magnification | 42-millimeter objective lens diameter | 477 feet at 1,000 yards | 18-millimeter eye relief | Waterproof

Best Image Stabilizing

Canon 10x42 l waterproof binoculars.

These binoculars are not only good for wildlife viewing, but also stargazing.

They require batteries.

One of the drawbacks to using handheld binoculars that aren't mounted on a tripod is that your view is highly susceptible to your hand movements — the slightest shakes can make it very difficult to see your subject. The Canon 10x42 L IS WP eliminates that issue with a built-in gyroscope that compensates for any wobbling. The technology is heavy and battery-operated, so they're a tad inconvenient for light packers, but if you don't have steady hands, these binoculars will greatly increase your viewing experience. It can even compensate for moving vehicles (to some extent, anyway — it depends on how rough the terrain is in the bush). Just remember to keep spare batteries on you, as the AA batteries only provide a maximum of 2.5 hours of use.

The Details: 3.9 pounds | 10x magnification | 42-millimeter objective lens diameter | 340 feet at 1,000 yards | 16-millimeter eye relief | Waterproof

Best Lightweight

Leica trinovid bca 8x20 binocular with case.

They're pocket-sized for easy travel.

The smaller objective lens diameter means you'll see a smaller image overall.

The Leica 8x20 Trinovid BCA is a high-end pair of binoculars that are lightweight and still provide high optical quality.  "A compact pair can be more expensive, but will save some space," Jason Maynard, a Trip Planner with Adventure Life who specializes in safaris, says. This can be particularly beneficial if you're doing a walking safari or horseback safari when you'll need to carry all your gear. Be aware that these binoculars are simply water-resistant, not waterproof, so limiting their exposure to rain is best.

The Details: 0.6 pounds | 8x magnification | 20-millimeter objective lens diameter | 346 feet at 1,000 yards | 14-millimeter eye relief | Water-resistant

Tips for Buying Binoculars for Safari

Consider waterproof or weatherproof models.

Whether you're going on safari in the dry or the rainy season, it's always a good idea to buy waterproof or water-resistant binoculars. There is just no predicting what the weather might have in store. Plus, if you're doing any water-related activities, you'll want to ensure your binoculars are protected from splashes. Also consider fog proofing as fogproof binoculars are filled with certain gases to prevent condensation from building up inside the device and blurring your view.

Pay attention to the details

There’s lots of jargon involved when it comes to binoculars because the complex devices are all about their specs. These details make all the difference in your viewing experience, from the image you see to the fit to your face. Here are the specs you should consider when buying a pair of binoculars, and what they mean:

• Magnification: This is the first number in the product name (the eight in 8x42, for example), and it denotes the ratio between the actual size of an object and the size it appears to be when viewed through the binoculars. For instance, when an object 1,000 feet away is viewed through binoculars with 10x magnification, it will appear as if it were only 100 feet away. For safari, it's best to stick to 8x or 10x magnification.
• Objective lens diameter: This is the second number in the product name (the 42 in 8x42, for example), and it indicates the size of the lens at the very front of binoculars, represented in millimeters. Objective lens diameter can indicate the general size of the binoculars. Standard pairs are usually 40 to 42 millimeters, while compact ones are usually 20 to 25 millimeters. Larger lenses allow more light into the binoculars, which provides a crisper image, but as their size increases, so does their weight.
• Field of view: This is the width of the image you see when looking into your binoculars. It's either measured in degrees out of a possible 360 (angular field of view) or in feet per 1,000 yards (linear field of view). For the latter measurement, that means when you look out at a point 1,000 yards away, the width of the image will be that number of feet. 
• Eye relief: This is the ideal distance between the optical lens (the lens in the eyepiece) and the surface of your eyes, represented in millimeters. If the lens is closer or farther than this distance from your eyes, the image you see might be vignetted with shadows, or it may be cut off so that you don't see the full image. If you wear glasses, you'll want at least 16 millimeters of eye relief to make room for them. Most binoculars have eye reliefs between 10 and 20 millimeters.

Binoculars greatly enhance the wildlife viewing experience on safari, as many (but not all) animals will keep their distance from you. "I always bring my own binoculars on safari and recommend others do, too," Maynard says. "Safari lodges and guides often have binoculars that guests can share, but bringing your own ensures you'll always have a pair so you don't miss out on any viewing opportunities. And having your own allows you to get used to using them before going on your safari, so you don't have to figure out how to adjust them on the spot."

Binoculars can even be used when wildlife is close to you. "Even if the animal is close, you can use your binoculars to see amazing details of the animal's fur, eyes, horns, and feet," Roberti says. "It's truly amazing how much more you will enjoy your safari with binoculars. Even as a wildlife photographer, with long camera lenses, I always have a pair of binoculars with me on safari."

Both 8x and 10x magnification are reasonable for safari. Any lower, and you might not get as close of a look at the wildlife as you want. Any higher, and it will be difficult to keep your hands steady enough to see an image clearly through the binoculars. "The more magnification the binoculars have, the more shake you will see and I've seen many people get motion sickness from using binoculars that were too strong for what they were used to," Roberti says.

For general use, an objective lens diameter of 42 millimeters is recommended, as it will give you a bright image and a wide field of view. Since you will be sitting in a safari vehicle for most of your wildlife viewing, you don't need to worry about carrying around a heavier, bulkier pair of binoculars. If, however, you're planning on doing a walking safari or a horseback safari, you might want to choose a smaller objective lens diameter in favor of portability.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with more than one decade of experience. She has gone on safari in Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, and Botswana and is a birder. For this article, she evaluated her own experience with binoculars and interviewed wildlife photographer and safari expert Lisa Roberti and Adventure Life Trip Planner Jason Maynard .

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8 Best Safari Binoculars – Don’t Skip A Thing!

If you are going on Safari then it could be the trip of a lifetime, it is vital to ensure that you have the right equipment to thoroughly enjoy it and ensure that you see the wildlife in all of its glory, the best binoculars for safari are the best way to do this, as you can see everything that the landscape will have to offer. The wrong binoculars will leave you disappointed, and it is easy to buy dud products that don’t help your eyes.

In our guide we’ve looked at weather resistance, prisms, which need to be high-quality and reduce the number of lenses that are required. We’ve also looked at the field of view, so how much you can see, the lens coating and protection, and of course the eye relief, which relates to the distance between eye and eyepiece within the binoculars.

• Quick Summary
• Editor’s Choice: Celestron Nature DX 8x32 "With our winner you’ll get:. Easy-twist, adjustable eyecups. Very lightweight model. Wide field of view."
• Best Value: Bushnell Legend L-Series 10x42 "To compromise the price and quality opt for this model:. Magnesium chassis. Lifetime warranty. Weatherproof."
• Budget Pick: Nikon Trailblazer 10x25 ATB "This is a budget-friendly model with great features:. Weatherproof design. Great contrast. Very lightweight."
• Best Dustproof Model: Zeiss Terra ED 10 x 42 Binoculars "On a safari it is essential for your binoculars to be dustproof:. Dustproof lenses. Clear magnification with great contrast. Very high-quality Zeiss lens."
• Best Carrying System: Leica 8x42 Trinovid HD "With this model you can forget about the uncomfortable carrying:. Innovative carrying system. Excellent coating. High-quality Leica lens."
• Best Bridge: Sig Sauer ZULU7 10X42 "If you make worries about the bridge, here is the solution:. Open bridge. HDX special glass with maximized light transmission. Abrasion-resistant lens coating."
• Best Diopter Lock: Kowa Genesis Series XD 10x33 "This model from the Kowa company will offer to you:. Diopter lock. Wide angle. Military-style design."
• Best Versatility: Celestron Granite 7x33 "This model will keep your hands free:. Tripod compatible. Open hinge design. High-quality lens."

Top 8 Binoculars for Safari Review 2024

Celestron Nature DX 8x32

• Prism: roof, BAK4
• Eye relief: 17.5 mm
• Field of view: 388 ft at 1000 yds
• Lens coating: multi-coated
• Weight: 18 oz.

Other features: waterproof, fogproof, twist eyecups, carrying case, polycarbonate body

The Celestron Nature DX 8×32 is our editor’s choice. It has a high-quality coaxed lens, and features a roof prism system, the BAK4. The binoculars are relatively compact at 5” in size and weigh just 18 oz so they are pretty good for taking out and about with you.

The body is waterproof so that it won’t ruin your view even in rainy conditions. Everything you need also comes with the set of binoculars, so you get lens caps, an eyepiece rainguard, a neck strap, a lens cloth, and the manual to show you how to use it. The field of view is nearly 400 feet even at a distance of 1000 yards. Eye relief with these binoculars comes in at 17.5mm, which is pretty standard for high-end binoculars.

What we like: These are really flexible, with twistable eyecups and a lightweight and portable design. This is exactly what you will be looking for when you go on safari, and they are good for hanging around your neck or taking out and about with you.

What could be better: A replacement neck strap or a better case for these binoculars would be a bit of an upgrade, they are okay but not quite up to scratch for the best binoculars for African safari.

• Weatherproof.
• Easy-twist, adjustable eyecups.
• Very lightweight and easy to take out on safari with you.
• A good, wide field of view.
• Our 2 pick for the: best 8x32 binoculars
• Our 1 pick for the: best compact binoculars

Bushnell Legend L-Series 10x42

• Eye relief: 18 mm
• Field of view: 340 ft at 1000 yds
• Lens coating: RainGuard® HD water-repellent
• Length: 5.5”
• Weight: 23.5 oz.

Other features: waterproof, fogproof, twist eyecups, carrying case, lifetime warranty, magnesium chassis

Bushnell is a very good brand with a rich history when it comes to the manufacture of optics, including binoculars. These are some of the best small binoculars for safari and have impressive features. It was hard to separate them from the editor’s choice model.

They have a similar field of view, with 340 ft at 1,000 yards. The lens coating is impressive, with the RainGuard HD lens being repellent to water meaning a clear view even when weather conditions don’t really suit. The eye relief is 18mm.

Like a lot of the other options the eyecups twist so that it is easy to adjust them to your preference and eye shape.

In terms of the build-quality, they have a brilliant magnesium chassis, and are able to offer a lifetime warranty. In spite of this sturdy chassis the binoculars only weigh 23.5 oz, which is fairly light for the best safari binoculars.

What we like: The fantastic build-quality is backed up by a lifetime warranty meaning that your purchase is totally protected and you don’t have to worry about breakages. The lenses are also brilliant in trying conditions as far as the weather is concerned.

What could be better: The focus adjuster feels a little bit flimsy and could be prone to breakage, which isn’t really what you would expect from an otherwise sturdy pair of binoculars for African safari.

• Excellent lens-coating.
• Great for use in all weather conditions.
• Lifetime warranty.

Nikon Trailblazer 10x25 ATB

• Eye relief: 10 mm
• Field of view: 342 ft at 1000 yds
• Length: 5.12”
• Weight: 15.52 oz.

Other features: waterproof, fogproof, O-ring sealed, nitrogen field, rugged design

Nikon is another huge brand when it comes to optics and not only do they produce some of the world’s greatest cameras, they have amazing binoculars such as these, the Nikon Trailblazer 10×25 ATB.

These are some of the best lightweight binoculars for safari. You can take advantage of their light design as they are less than 16 oz in total.

The eye relief is 10mm, which is not as high as some other models on the list so not as flexible for your eyes. The coating is “multi-coated” meaning the lenses have been treated for a good waterproof design and they are also fogproof.

They are nitrogen filled, and the design is intended to “maximize light transmission for brighter views and improved color fidelity and contrast”.

What we like: It is very hard not to comment on what you get for your money with these Nikon binoculars, they are among the best compact binoculars for safari but they are incredibly good value, and to find such good binoculars under the $100 mark is very unusual. The relatively rugged build-quality is worth noting, too.

What could be better: The eye relief is 10mm, which is far less than some of the other models on the list, so you need to think about whether this is a priority for you or not before you make your purchase.

• Weatherproof design.
• Great contrast, retains color well for accurate safari viewing.
• Very lightweight and easily portable.
• Our 9 pick for the: best nikon binoculars
• Our 5 pick for the: best compact binoculars

Zeiss Terra ED 10 x 42 Binoculars

• Prism: roof, Schmidt-Pechan
• Eye relief: 15 mm
• Field of view: 330 ft at 1000 yds
• Lens coating: hydrophobic multi-coated
• Length: 5.6”
• Weight: 25.5 oz.

Other features: waterproof, fogproof, dustproof, lifetime warranty, easy grip

The Zeiss brand is famous for the manufacture of lenses and this is no exception. The Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 is more expensive than some of the other options, but the lens is dustproof which means that over time it won’t become interrupted or ruined by specs of dust, which in the 10x magnification would be a lot more annoying than you can imagine.

The field of view is large and the images are pretty steady, with a lens diameter of 42mm.

10x magnification for delivering breathtaking enlarged images; field of view at 1000m – 110 m; apparent field of view – 60°; the TERRA ED 10×42 binocular offers you both large fields of view and steady images. These binoculars are waterproof and weatherproof so they can cope with extreme temperatures among other challenging weathers. They’re multicoated and give clear imagery even at a 1000 yard distance, where they have a field of view over 300ft.

What we like: Robust, clear, and they have a brilliant contrast with reliable dustproof imaging at 10x magnification.

What could be better: It is debatable whether you can get a similar level of quality at a lower price, these are not the most affordable binoculars on the list so if you are looking for the best budget binoculars for safari you may need to look elsewhere.

• Dustproof lenses that are also coated.
• Clear magnification with great contrast.
• Very high-quality Zeiss lens.
• Our 6 pick for the: best binoculars under 500

Leica 8x42 Trinovid HD

• Prism: roof
• Eye relief: 17 mm
• Field of view: 414 ft at 1000 yds
• Lens coating: HDC coating/Leica AquaDura
• Length: not specified
• Weight: 1.61 lb.

Other features: waterproof, innovative carrying system, adventure harness system

We’re definitely getting into the more expensive binoculars for safari here, with the Leica Camera Co. 8×42 Trinovid HD Binoculars, which have a huge field of view and plenty of other features to love, but we’ve named them the best when it comes to their harness system, which is brilliant for quickly and easily whipping out your binoculars to ensure you don’t miss any of the beautiful wildlife.

The harness system is the number one vital feature, it straps around your body and allows you to instantly grab them and spot the incredible animals.

The field of view is 414 feet which is one of the biggest you will find. Like a lot of the pricey models it is waterproof, which means that it can cope with what the weather throws at you when in challenging climates.

The HDC coating/Leica AquaDura reflects the high-quality of the product. Leica has worked hard creating top-end optics and that is what is available with these.

What we like: The best thing about these is definitely the harness that can be wrapped around you while you are on safari.

What could be better: Not everyone wants to spend close to $1000 on binoculars and these are quite an expensive model when compared to a lot of the other binoculars on this list. Also, though the harness is great, it is big and bulky and can make it harder to carry.

• Easy to use and grab conveniently while on safari in Africa or elsewhere.
• Excellent coating.
• High-quality Leica lens.

Sig Sauer ZULU7 10X42

• Field of view: 114 m at 1000 m
• Lens coating: fully multi-coated
• Length: 5.8”
• Weight: 26.7 oz.

Other features: waterproof, HDX special glass with maximized light transmission, abrasion-resistant lens coating, open bridge

The ZULU7 are something very different when compared to a lot of the other models, and we have named them the best bridge. You can use this model with one hand and enjoy quick, easy and portable use.

They feature a roof prism and have eye relief at 17 mm which is pretty standard. The field of view is much more narrow, but this is to be expected with this style of binoculars.

The HDX glass means maximized light transmission, and it also helps these binoculars becoming some of the best small binoculars for use in low light.

The open bridge makes it easy to adjust and use one-handed, freeing up your other hand for a camera or to hold on to a moving vehicle, for instance. As you would probably expect from a quality pair of binoculars, they are multi-coated with a high quality lens and even have a waterproof design. They aren’t just able to cope with a few drops of rain, you can submerse these up to 16 ft and they will still work very well.

What we like: They are very small, compact and the easiest option to use with one hand.

What could be better: The field of view is very narrow, so you don’t quite get the best view of the surroundings from a long distance.

• Lightweight and easy to use with one hand.
• Great for use in low light situations.

Kowa Genesis Series XD 10x33

• Eye relief: 10.9 mm
• Field of view: 357 ft at 1000 yds
• Weight: 20.8 oz.

Other features: waterproof, lifetime warranty, wide angled, diopter lock

The Kowa Genesis Series XD 10x33mm Binoculars GN33-10 are a great option for those who don’t mind spending a little more on their binoculars. They have a wide angle, and a military-style design. The product is incredibly hardy and durable so it shouldn’t break any time soon.

Your field of view at 1000 yards is 357 ft which is certainly respectable enough. They’re also a lightweight model.

The contrast and color reproduction are two more of the best things about these binoculars, and the detail you see using them is absolutely fantastic. The lens is multi-coated and gives great protection against the weather and also against dust so over the years your binoculars should retain their quality just like the day you bought them.

What we like: One of the fantastic things about these is the diopter lock that lets you take full control of the refraction and adjust the binoculars perfectly so that you can see exactly what is going on ahead of you.

What could be better: Once again, it is worth considering the price of this model, as it is over $1,000. It does have a lifetime warranty, but this is still a big investment for most going on a safari. It all depends on what you are hoping to spend.

• Excellent diopter lock.
• Military grade in both design and in built quality.
• Come with a limited lifetime warranty.

Celestron Granite 7x33

• Field of view: 477 ft at 1000 yds
• Weight: 21.2 oz.

Other features: waterproof, fogproof, tripod adaptable, open hinge design

Some people looking for binoculars for safari are looking for a versatile model that can easily be used for other things. The Celestron Granite 7×33 Binoculars 71378 might just be that model of binoculars as it has features that are great for so many different uses, you could take this birding just as easily as on safari.

It has the weatherproof functionality that most of us are hoping for when we buy binoculars, and can cope with rain or with fog.

The field of view is very wide at nearly 500 ft at a distance of 1000 yards. The ED glass (extra low dispersion) means that the resolution and contrast are true to real life and that your view is spectacular when on safari.

These binoculars can even be set up for use with a tripod if you wish, so you can set yourself up in a good spot on safari.

This comes with plenty of accessories, Carrying Case, strap, manual, lens cloth, caps and even a neck strap are all included.

What we like: These versatile binoculars can be used for pretty much anything you wish. Take them on safari or go birding with them. They also don’t cost a huge amount of money for such reliable binoculars, and are comparable to some models that are twice the price.

What could be better: Some of the controls and dials feel a bit flimsy and plasticky.

• Exceptional value for money.
• Great for use with a tripod.
• Very versatile.
• High-quality lens.

• Things to Consider

Are you buying binoculars for the first time? Perhaps you have booked a once-in-a-lifetime trip and you want to make sure you soak everything up while you are on your vacation. Binoculars can seem pretty intimidating at first as you might not fully understand all of the features and functions. How do you establish what is best?

Features to consider when choosing binoculars for safari

The top considerations are all listed below as the top features to consider when choosing your binoculars. These are also the features we’ve looked at when creating our reviews, and the criteria we’ve used to compare one pair of binoculars to another.

• Magnification and objective lens diameter

Magnification is one of the more self-explanatory functions of binoculars. It is simply measured in x – the number of times the size the magnification will make something appear.

However, the objective lens diameter plays a big part here. If you are looking at a large diameter lens it will probably be a pretty big and bulky set of binoculars, but they let in a lot more light. This means that you can get a brighter image, so if you are going on a night safari, for example, you want to make sure you are collecting plenty of light so that you can see what is happening.

• Weather resistance

Weather resistance for binoculars comes in a few different forms. If you are in Africa, you can get rainstorms, just like anywhere else in the world. They might not be common but when they do come they can really teem down. This means that you need to be prepared with weather resistant binoculars. As well as being able to cope with the water, they should also be able to cope with the extreme heat conditions. In some scenarios, it can get very, very hot, and this can cause issues with optics. Be very cautious if you are buying cheaper models as they might not cope very well in the hot conditions.

• Image stability

If you have ever seen live sport on television and you see footage that has been zoomed in to a high degree of magnification, it will start to look shaky in some situations. If you don’t have very good image stability with your binoculars then this could equally be a problem with your safari binoculars.

It is pointless having binoculars that can magnify and let you see an amazing creature hundreds or even thousands of yards away, if it is going to look shaky anyway so you can’t see what is happening unless you have an incredibly steady hand. If you are in a vehicle image stability becomes even more vital.

• Size and weight

This is not the most technical of features to think about. The size and weight of binoculars for safari is a pretty self-explanatory set of features. If you are going on safari and you need to pack a bag including an overnight bag, you will want to think more about the size and weight. For instance, the Leica 8×42 Trinovid HD is a fantastic option but the harness makes it very big and bulky to carry around. It’s easier due to the fact you can strap it to you, but you do need to consider the extra size.

Many of the models on our list weigh a similar amount. Around the 25 Oz mark is pretty good for binoculars for safari.

• Prism system

The prism system is absolutely vital to binoculars and helps to make them work. Porro and Roof are the two main types of prism that you get in binoculars for safari. The prism binoculars have objective tubes, these are slightly offset from the eyepieces. These prisms then angle from the eyepieces toward the lenses. In terms of a roof prism model, there are two straight tubes which means they are much smaller and more portable.

Other types include the Schmidt-Pechan system, which is a way to flip an image 180 degrees when magnifying. The relatively expensive Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 is one of the options to use this system.

• Optical coating

The optical coating of a binocular can be one of its main selling points, they are all slightly different depending upon which model you buy, and some can do better jobs than others. Some offer protection, but this isn’t the only role of the binocular coating.

The coatings are designed to stop light loss inside the mechanism, reduce glare and make sure that the light that is being carried is transmitted evenly, this reduces the chances that the light will degrade as you use the binoculars.

• Field of View

The field of view relates to how much of the horizon you can possibly see, the width of space that can make it through your binoculars. A narrow field of view means you are less likely to see impressive, wide horizons. A wider field is usually preferred for things like going on safari, unless you want to focus in on specific details. The standard is to measure the field of view at 1000 yards, and the Celestron Granite 7×33 has the widest on the list, as it has almost 500 feet of viewable area even at this incredible distance.

Eye relief is something that can be difficult to get your head around if you are new to binoculars. It is one of the more confusing terms in some ways. The eye relief actually refers to the distance between the lens at the eye and the pupil itself. This means where the image is projected, and where it actually gets seen by your eye.

When the user is in the eye relief distance they can see all of the field of view, but if you go further away then you might not see all of the image, and the quality might be lower or the image seem cropped to the naked eye. A lot of models on the list have a relief of between 15mm and 20mm. 17.5mm is a popular measurement, and our editor’s choice, the

Celestron Nature DX 8×32 offers this eye relief. It is definitely worth trying to ensure you have fully understood this measurement before you take the lunge and buy a set of binoculars.

Naturally, there are two eyecups, one for each eye, and these are then attached as a part of the mechanism. The eyecups should be adjustable, at least to some extent as people need to be able to see properly, and we all have different shapes and sizes of our heads. Your eyes will be different to another person’s eyes, which means you might need to adjust it properly to ensure it is perfected for your own eyes.

This is definitely something to think about when you are buying your binoculars. Obviously, we all like to be able to spend a lot of money on products like this but it really depends on your own budget. Going on safari in Africa probably has set you back a fair bit of cash anyway, so it is hard to then spend a lot of money on accessories. A lot of people want to go all out for safari and buy things like cameras, new lenses and binoculars.

One great thing about the best binoculars is the fact that they can last a very long time. Often, they come with lifetime warranties, or at least very long warranties, so you don’t have to worry about whether they are going to last for a long time, rather whether you can afford them in the first place.

There are budget binoculars for safari that you can buy for under $100, and some of these can do a pretty good job. If you are on a budget then they are certainly a better option than not taking binoculars and risking missing out on some of the amazing sights. If you are really serious about it, though, you will probably want to spend a little more. For a mid-range set of binoculars that has a lot of likeable features, the Celestron Granite 7×33 is one of the best choices.

• Other features

Some binoculars include other features to try and stand out from the competition, but one of the main ways in which manufacturers make their products look better is to include a lot of accessories. Things like lens caps, neck bands and wipes to ensure the longevity of your binocular, and that they are likely to be protected. A case is a very useful extra as it can sometimes be hard to match up binoculars to a case that is the exact right size, so it is important to think about this before making the purchase. A case gives so much protection.

• How do I maintain my binoculars properly?

Firstly, you need to make sure you remove any dust from the binocular’s lenses. Loose dust will shake clean.

Next, moisten a q-tip just with water, or use a little bit of specific glasses cleaning solution, which lets you pick off any other bits of dust that are sitting on the lens. Finally, you can use the lens wipes to polish and do the final cleanup of your binoculars.

On top of cleaning, there is a lot to think about with your binoculars, and keeping them in a case is essential to make sure they are kept safe from the elements and cannot be damaged when you least expect it. If you are going on safari, they are probably coming on a plane with you, so this is even more essential.

• What are the best binoculars for long distances?
• Our verdict

Coming in at the very top of our list of the best binoculars for Safari is the Celestron Nature DX 8×32 , these aren’t too expensive and they do a very good job over long distances, with a more-than-respectable field of view rating. We’ve given these 9.9/10, and their quality is helped by the fact that they also have a limited lifetime warranty to protect your purchase.

Next is the Bushnell Legend L-Series 10×42 which boasts a magnesium chassis meaning great quality and even though they have a lightweight design they are very rugged and durable, so built to last a long time. On top of this, they have a brilliant lens coating. We’ve given them 9.8/10.

The budget pick is the Nikon Trailblazer 10×25 ATB , which gives a brilliant look and feel and give a fantastic image reproduction, in spite of the fact that they don’t cost a huge amount of money. You can enjoy all the benefits of optics made by Nikon without it costing too much money.

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8 Best Binoculars for Safari of 2024 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated on Jan 03 2024

When you’re on safari, the right binoculars will let you see distant animals with remarkable clarity, while the wrong pair will leave them fuzzy or invisible. Online shopping should make it easier to find the right binoculars for your expedition. In practice, the number of choices and misleading product descriptions can make it tricky to get what you need.

We want you to get the equipment you need for a great safari experience. We’ve collected some reviews of our favorite binoculars in this list, where we explain why they’re great choices. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide about everything you need to know to make a great decision, even if you’ve never used binoculars before.

• A Quick Look at the Winners of 2024:

The 8 Best Safari Binoculars:

• 1. Nikon MONARCH 5 Binocular – Best Overall

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If you’re going on a safari, you need binoculars that will give you excellent views, while also being hardy enough to stand up to the elements. The Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 8×42 Binocular was redesigned to be an ounce lighter than the previous version. That doesn’t sound like a lot, but it can make a big difference on an all-day excursion. The rugged armor will protect it from most dings and even some drops, which makes it a good choice for a safari. It’s also waterproof and fog proof, so the internal optics should remain clear, even in inclement weather.

It features Nikon’s great ED glass, which stands for “extra-low dispersion.” This means you’ll get superior image quality with less chromatic aberration and sharper long-range images. It’s also user-friendly, as it comes with adjustable eyecups and a simple center-focusing wheel. While it’s not great for up-close viewing, with a minimum focusing distance of eight feet, it will perform spectacularly at the long ranges you experience on safaris. This is a great pair of binoculars, with the ruggedness and quality needed for serious outdoor excursions.

All in all, we think that these are the best binoculars for safari trips.

• Lightweight
• Easy to use
• Waterproof and fog proof
• Long close-focus range
• 2. Vortex Diamondback 8×42 Safari Binoculars

The Vortex Optics Diamondback 8×42 Binoculars are another good choice for safari use. They’re fogproof and waterproof, so you shouldn’t have to worry about their optics fogging up. They also come with a short-hinge design that frees up more of the barrel for your hands. That makes them comfortable to hold, and harder to drop than other binoculars of similar weight and size. The adjustable eyepieces make this model a good choice for those with glasses, as you’ll be able to adjust them to work with or without your glasses.

These binoculars are focused via a center wheel. The right eyepiece is also independently adjustable, so you can get a custom fit if you have different vision in each eye. The cheap lens caps keep this model out of first place. They often fall off, so it can be hard to keep up with them, and they don’t do their job of protecting the lenses. With better lens caps, there’s a chance this set could rise to first place. Still, if you don’t like the Nikon set on top of this list, this is a great alternative.

• Fogproof and waterproof
• Short-hinge design
• Adjustable eyepieces
• Independent focusing
• Cheap lens caps
• 3. Celestron Nature 8×42 Binoculars – Best Value

The Celestron 71332 Nature DX 8×42 Binocular  may seem priced in a way that’s too good to be true, but in this case, it may be just as good as you’d hope. This pair is waterproof, making it great for safaris and other outdoor activities. It also has some of the best eye relief of any binoculars on the market, providing a remarkable 18 millimeters of distance between the lens and the focused image. That makes it great for glasses users or those who don’t like holding the binoculars against their faces all day.

These binoculars come with phase-coated BaK-4 prisms, which provide excellent clarity without driving the price up. Speaking of price, this model will set you back about half of what the top two sets on our list cost. Since there’s no appreciable drop-off in quality, you can get a great experience at a fraction of the typical cost, making these the best overall value. The only issue is that they’re about 50 percent heavier than our top models. Still, if you want a great viewing experience for a low price, you can’t beat these binoculars.

• Excellent eye relief
• Great clarity
• Incredible price
• 4. Avalon 10×42 Safari Binoculars

The Avalon 10×42 PRO HD Binoculars are extremely lightweight, weighing just under one and a quarter pounds. That makes them excellent for all-day use, and they won’t put too much strain on your neck. This pair also comes with higher magnification than others here. You’ll get more detail at longer distances, but your field of view will be smaller, so there’s a real tradeoff there. These come with adjustable eyepieces, which makes them useful for people who use glasses, or who will otherwise adjust the eye relief throughout the day.

These binoculars are waterproof and fogproof, so they’re ready for whatever weather conditions may come along. You won’t have to worry about humidity or a chance rainstorm ruining them. Unfortunately, these binoculars have a poor close focus distance of nearly ten feet. That may not be a dealbreaker on a safari where most of your viewing will be medium- to far-distance, but these don’t work as well at close range. These binoculars are good, but there are some superior options out there.

• Very lightweight
• High magnification
• Poor close focus
• 5. Leupold BX-1 McKenzie Binoculars for Safari

The Leupold BX-1 McKenzie Binocular does many things right. This set is waterproof, so you’ll be able to use it in all weather conditions. If you’re looking for binoculars with greater magnification, you’ll like these, since they come with 10x magnification. Again, there’s a tradeoff between magnification and field of view, but if you want to make out more detail at longer distances, these will be up to the task. They’re well-built and very sturdy, so they should easily survive heavy bumps or the occasional accidental drop.

However, they’re pretty heavy for binoculars, as they weigh more than two pounds. You can find sets that weigh roughly half that, and if you’re going to be wearing them around your neck all day, they can get tiresome. They also have some chromatic aberration. Consequently, images won’t be as sharp as those from competing models. If you’re going on a safari, you’ll want crystal-clear images, and this model can’t consistently give you those. It’s a decent pair of binoculars, but there are plenty of others that offer better value for the money.

• Good magnification
• Chromatic aberration
• 6. Bushnell H2O Roof Prism Binoculars

Sometimes a product’s build quality is fine, but it has design mistakes that make it unpleasant to use. Unfortunately, the Bushnell H2O 10 x 42 Waterproof Roof Prism Binocular is one of those products. To its credit, it’s waterproof and nitrogen-filled. That means it shouldn’t fog up internally, and that it’s safe to use in outdoor activities. It also weighs just a pound and a half. That’s not the lightest on our list, but it’s excellent for a model with 10x magnification. If you’re looking for a set with a bit more magnification, you may potentially like this one.

However, it isn’t easy to focus. The eyepieces sometimes get out of sync, and that can make it hard to get the quick focusing you need to see fleeting animals. It also gets lots of glare on sunny days, which means the best days for safaris are the worst days for this set. That’s a serious problem that you can’t fix easily on your own. Ultimately, this won’t be the right pair of binoculars for most people going on a safari.

• Waterproof and nitrogen-filled
• Struggles on bright days
• Tricky focusing
• 7. Gosky 10×42 Safari Binoculars

You may think you need an expensive camera and an even more expensive zoom lens to take great pictures on your safari. However, the Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars can serve as a zoom lens for your smartphone’s camera, allowing you to get pictures that are just as good for a fraction of the price. These binoculars include a smartphone mount, which works with most modern smartphones, and allows you to take excellent photos at a distance. You can also use the smartphone as a viewing device, so you don’t have to hold your eyes to the eyepieces. Even with that extra part included, these aren’t very expensive binoculars.

However, they’re far clearer in the center than they are around the edges. This can do weird things to the resulting images. Even if you’re just using them for viewing, you may dislike the way the image is distorted. With the mount included, these binoculars feel heavy, and you may not like holding them up all day. Overall, they’re good for people who have smartphones and want to use them, but otherwise, you’ll be happier with a different pair of binoculars.

• Inexpensive
• Smartphone mount
• Clear in the center
• Blurry around edges
• 8. Levenhuk 7×50 Porro Prism Binocular

The Levenhuk Sherman 7×50 Classic Porro Prism Binoculars have a conflicting set of optics and fail to live up to expectations in other areas. They’re nitrogen-filled, which is something you don’t always find at this price point. That gas fill means you shouldn’t have to worry about the internal optics fogging up. This model does come with 50-millimeter lenses, which allow more light gathering, and ultimately clearer and sharper images. However, it squanders some of that with its inferior magnification at just 7x. That makes it weaker than any other binoculars on our list, and in some circumstances, it won’t have the magnification you need to fully enjoy your safari.

The neck strap is also uncomfortable. That’s not a problem you’ll want to be dealing with throughout the day. You could just hold it, but this model is far heavier than others on this list, so that’s not something you’ll want to do either. If you’re looking for inexpensive binoculars, these pass that test, but the serious flaws mean most people won’t enjoy using them.

• Large lenses
• Nitrogen-filled
• Poor magnification
• Uncomfortable neck strap
• Extremely heavy

Buyer’s Guide – Picking the Best Binoculars for Safari

• Magnification and lens size

Two of the most important things to understand about binoculars are magnification and lens size. You’ll frequently see a number like “8×42” listed with a product’s name. The “8” refers to the magnification, so these binoculars will make things appear eight times closer.

The “42” refers to the lens size in millimeters. The bigger the number is, the larger the lens is. The larger the lens is, the more light gets in, and more light means a brighter and clearer image.

As magnification increases, the field of view, or the area visible in the image, gets smaller. You also have to hold binoculars with greater magnification more carefully, as small movements can lead to the image becoming very unstable.

It’s extremely important to invest in waterproof binoculars. There’s always the chance of getting caught in the rain, spilling water, or even getting sweat inside your binoculars. Moisture likes to settle on the mirrors and lenses in binoculars, which renders them unusable.

To help avoid this problem, look for waterproof and fogproof sets. Fogproof models are also resistant to humidity, which makes them even less likely to get fogged up. It’s also a good idea to get binoculars with a nitrogen or argon fill, as these are purged of humidity that could potentially cause problems.

• Visual clarity

To get the most out of your binoculars, you’ll want to maximize the visual clarity you get from the image. After all, if you can’t make out good detail, you’re not going to enjoy your safari.

ED glass, or extra-low dispersion glass, is a material used for binocular and telescope lenses that corrects for natural refraction of light. This leads to a sharper final image and reduces the chances of chromatic aberration, which is the spreading of colors of different wavelengths. You can typically only find ED glass in high-end binoculars, but it’s often well worth the price.

Other Binocular Posts You May Find Interesting:

• Our tips & tricks to holding your binoculars steady
• Our in-depth reviews of 8×32 binoculars
• Vortex Crossfire vs Diamondback Binoculars: Which is Best?
• Conclusion:

The Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 8×42 Binocular is our favorite model due to the lightweight, ED glass, and easy use. In second is the Vortex Optics Diamondback 8×42 Binoculars . They’re fog proof and waterproof, feature a great short-hinge design, and have adjustable eyepieces. Their cheap lens caps keep them out of the top spot. Third place belongs to the Celestron 71332 Nature DX 8×42 Binocular , which is waterproof and provides excellent eye relief and clarity. Since it’s sold for half the price of the top two choices, it’s the best value for the money here. When it comes to the best binoculars for safari, you can’t go wrong with any of the above.

The Avalon 10×42 PRO HD Binoculars are very lightweight, provide high magnification, and have adjustable eyepieces, but their poor close focus hurts their value. In fifth place, the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie Binocular is waterproof and has good magnification, but suffers from chromatic aberration and a heavy frame. The Bushnell H2O 10×42 Waterproof Roof Prism Binocular takes sixth place with its waterproof and nitrogen-filled frame and good magnification. However, it struggles on bright days and is tricky to focus.

The Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars land in seventh place with their low price and inclusion of a smartphone mount, though they weigh a lot and don’t provide the clarity that non-smartphone users will value. In the last place is the Levenhuk Sherman 7×50 Classic Porro Prism Binoculars. They have large lenses but lose a lot of value because of their poor magnification, heavyweight, and uncomfortable neck strap.

We hope our reviews and buyer’s guide have helped you see which pair of binoculars are best for you, and you can now find a set that performs at a great price.

Good luck finding the best safari binoculars for your needs!

Also,  we often get asked which binoculars are best for Yellowstone National Park. See our recommendation here .

Table of Contents

About the Author Robert Sparks

Robert’s obsession with all things optical started early in life, when his optician father would bring home prototypes for Robert to play with. Nowadays, Robert is dedicated to helping others find the right optics for their needs. His hobbies include astronomy, astrophysics, and model building. Originally from Newark, NJ, he resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where the nighttime skies are filled with glittering stars.

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How to choose the

Binocular Reviews Home > Binoculars by Use > Best Safari Binoculars

>> Skip to the best binoculars for safaris

Before starting BBR, I used to and still do on occasions work as a Safari Guide (that's me on the right with the lovely Finley family who came on a safari holiday in South Africa). Indeed this is actually where my interest in binoculars for safaris originally came from:

I would say that binoculars are one of the most important, if not the most important pieces of equipment that a safari guide should have with them at all times.

So it stands to reason that if good safari binoculars are important to a professional, then they will also be as important to those wanting to get the most out of their safari holiday.

In my opinion, the right choice of optics can drastically improve your safari holiday experience.

So in this guide I hope to pass on some of my knowledge gained from working as a guide and from all the years that I have been testing and reviewing binoculars here on BBR.

Why Safari Binoculars?

So just why are binoculars so important to the enjoyment of your safari holiday? If this is going to be your first Safari experience then it is important to manage your expectations, the bush is not a zoo and for the most part you are not going to be sitting right next to the animal that you are viewing.

Sure if you are lucky enough there will be times when you have a herd of elephants surround your safari vehicle or you may come up right close to a pride of lions sheltering from the midday heat in the shade of a tree. But there are all the other times where your guide may spot a leopard on the rocks in the distance or some giraffe on a far away plain where the right pair of binoculars will really make the difference.

You may think "I'm not going all the way to Africa to see birds!" Believe me I have heard that one before, but if you give them a chance, birds are every bit as interesting as the big 5 on Safari.

Who knows, you may even get to see vultures feeding on the leftovers of a wild dog hunt, or a Snake Eagle swoop down to catch it's prey.

Wouldn't it be a shame to miss out on that because you either don't have a pair of binoculars, or if the ones you do have are not up to the task? If birds are your main focus you may look for more specific birdwatching binoculars as apposed to all round safari binoculars.

Binoculars and the Big Game I use my binoculars even when I am sitting watching something like a rhino or even an elephant that is only 10 meters away (yes that is me in the photo below). Sure they are some of Africa's largest mammals and I can see them perfectly well with my eyes, but there is so much more to see.

If it is a White Rhino, you can notice how square it's lips are, perfect for "hoovering" up it's staple food of grass. If it is a Black Rhino, look closely at it's pointed lips, perfect for reaching in amongst the branchlets of small bushes to find the sweetest shoots.

With elephants, take a look at their eyes and eyelashes, so much like a humans. Binoculars can take you that one step further, from just seeing the animal, to observing their behavior. It will truly transform your safari holiday experience!

So the question is not " if you should have a pair, but rather, which binoculars for safari:

What makes a Good Binocular for Safari?

So you now know they are essential for your holiday, but not just any binocular will do, you need the right one to get the most out of it.

Which Binoculars for Safari?

A good safari binocular will need to be ideal for general wildlife observation, be above average for birding and be great for travel. This they need to combine many of the strongest features from birding, hunting and travel binoculars.

In this section I will go though these most important aspects that i how will bring you nearer to deciding which binoculars are right for your safari and at your desired budget:

Therefore the most important features to look out for when deciding on a safari binocular are:

Even though the safari vehicles are pretty comfortable these days, you are bound to drop them or bash them Gaines something at some time during your holiday. Remember you are also going to be traveling about and so a flimsy pair could easily get damaged. So look for a pair that has a tough rubber armor covering and comes with a good quality and protective carry case.

If you are going to be walking about in the bush, another tip is to look for a pair that has their objective lenses set back quite deeply within the body. This will protect them from getting damaged or scratched when walking through and around thick bushes. Failing that make sure your optics come with some good objective lens caps that fit well and that can be tethered to the body so you can easily cover your lenses when required without having to look through your bag for them. (importance 7/10)

Size of Binocular

• Full Sized Binoculars have objective lenses of around 42mm or larger
• Mid Sized Binoculars have objective lenses of around 32mm to 36mm
• Compact Binoculars have objective lenses between 21mm and 28mm

Unless you want to struggle around with tons of luggage everywhere you go, it only makes sense that the optics that you travel with are as compact as possible. An easy to carry and compact binocular is even more important if you are planning on going on walking safaris and is especially important if you want to carry your camera with you at the same time as well. But compacts do have their drawbacks and so some people may feel that the benefits that full size or even mid-sized binoculars have over them are worth the extra weight and size.

The two main advantages that larger binoculars have over compacts in relation to safaris are:

• Because of their larger objective lenses full sized and even mid-sized binoculars are able to take in more light, meaning that all other factors being equal, the image that you view through them will usually be brighter and of better quality - Note: other factors like coatings and the quality of the lenses and prisms will also have a big baring on this. On a bright sunny day, the image brightness will not be a problem even with very small compacts and is only really and important factor in poor light conditions. On safari you may go out very early in the morning or late in the afternoon and early evening, when it is cooler and most wildlife is more active. The problem with this is the light quality will not be at it's best and it is at these times where a binocular with larger objective lenses will perform better than a smaller one with the same quality glass and coatings. Having said that, if you choose a really good quality compact binoculars that use high quality glass and coatings, they will actually often outperform cheap or poor quality full sized binoculars and will work fine for most conditions that you encounter whilst on safari. If you are looking for a very cheap pair of binoculars (please don't!) I would suggest opting for a full sized pair of porro prisms, but if you are able to spend just that bit more, you could easily get the same performance from a compact porro prism that is far easier to carry around whilst on safari and when travelling.
• At the same magnification full size binoculars tend to have a wider field of view, which as you will see below is a fairly important feature for racing binoculars. If you want a better performance than a compact can offer, but don't want to carry about a full sized pair of optics, you should consider a pair of mid size binoculars which offer a great compromise between the two.

The ideal size compromise On walking safaris I tend to use my compact binoculars, but if you want a better performance than a compact can offer, but don't want to carry about a full sized pair of optics, you should consider a pair of mid size binoculars which are a great compromise between the two and are in my opinion are an ideal size of binoculars for most safaris especially ones where you will be viewing the wildlife from a vehicle. (importance 7/10)

Tip: When I am walking in the bush, I always have a pair of binoculars with me, but I also sometimes want to have my camera with me as well. Obviously on these walks a compact binocular makes sense, but what you really need is one that can fold away small enough to fit into your shirt or jacket pocket, rather than have it dangling round your neck where it can get in the way when you are trying to photograph something. When it comes to size, not all compact binoculars are created equal - look out for roof prism compacts that have a duel hinge design that makes them far smaller than standard single hinge or porro prism compacts when folded. For more details take a look at my article on the Best Compact Pocket Binoculars .

The Right Magnification

The main reason you have a pair of binoculars for safaris is to get closer to the wildlife, so you may be forgiven for thinking that the more powerful the magnification the better. However this is not always true as very high powered binoculars have a two main drawbacks that may not make them ideal on a safari:

• The first problem with increasing the magnification is the higher the magnification, the smaller your field of view (FOV) will usually be (see field of view below ). This means that a binocular with a high magnification and small FOV will enable you to see loads of detail, but less of the whole picture and so you could miss out on some of the action.
• The next problem with high powered binoculars is that it becomes harder and harder to keep the image steady as any movement you make becomes progressively magnified through the binoculars. Image shake is a real problem when you have to follow something like birds or are using your binoculars for long periods of time like viewing animals at a watering hole where it is not only annoying but can eventually give you a headache.

So with magnification you have to make a compromise between getting close enough to to really see the details, but not so close that it makes actually seeing what is going on difficult! So in my opinion binoculars with a magnification of between 8x and 10x will is ideal for most safari binoculars. If however you are going to be particularly far away from the action you could consider a 12x magnification which is still fairly easy to keep still without a tripod and has a decent FOV, but will get you just that bit closer to the action. (importance 7/10)

Field of View

The field of view (FOV) of a pair of binoculars is basically the width of the image that you can see through the binoculars and so a wide FOV enables you to catch as much of the action all at once without having to move the binoculars about. For observing large relatively slow moving animals, a fairly narrow field of view is not really an issue. A nice wide FOV is much more important when observing small and fast moving objects like birds as a wide picture will make it far easier to spot them in the first place and then keep them in view as they dart about a tree or bush. So for a good general all round safari binocular used for both bird and large animal observation you want as big a FOV as possible but don't get too obsessive about it.

A binocular's FOV is usually expressed in feet at a distance of 1,000 yards, but is you also find it expressed in meters at 1,000 meters or it is sometimes displayed as an angle. I would say that for safaris a FOV of 315ft at 1,000 yards (105m at 1,000 meters / 6.0° ) should be fine for most people, but as I say, the wider the better, so if you are undecided between two models, check which has the widest FOV. (importance 6/10)

Other features to look out for

Waterproofing: A waterproof binocular is important especially if you are traveling in the rainy season (yes it does rain in Africa!) Most safari vehicles are not the most waterproof vehicles out there and sometimes some of the best game viewing experiences can happen when it is raining. On one occasion that comes to mind, I sat in the rain for over an hour with some hardy guests watching a cheetah shelter from the rain under a tree. We got very wet and so did our equipment, but it was well worth it to be able to spend such a long time observing this magnificent cat.

Waterproofing not only protects your optics from moisture, but in dry dusty conditions that you will often encounter on safari it will also prevent any dust and other small debris from entering them that could easily lead to your view being spoilt. (importance 6/10)

Image Stabilization: Image Stabilization Binoculars can really help if you definitely want or need a high powered binocular, or if you have particularly unsteady or shaky hands. Most work by using sensors that detect horizontal and vertical movement and a micro-pressor within the binocular that instantly adjusts the refraction angle of the incoming light on the prisms to cancel or smooth out the movement for a much steadier view. Do they work? Most definitely, but they also have their drawbacks - If you are looking for Image Stabilization, the best are the Canon IS Binoculars . (importance 2/10)

For a selection of the best safari binoculars that I highly recommend, take a look at my full the reviews of the award winning bins below:

• Winner: Best Mid-Size, Safari & Travel Binocular 2018/19 Snypex Knight D-ED 10x32 Binoculars
• Winner: Best Safari & Travel Binocular 2016/17 Hawke Endurance ED 8x32 Binoculars
• Winner: Best Safari & Travel Binocular 2015 Minox BL 8x33 HD Binoculars
• Winner: Best Safari & Travel Binocular 2014 Snypex Knight ED 10x32 Binoculars

• Winner: Best Safari & Travel Binocular 2012 Swarovski EL 8x32 W B Traveler Binoculars
• Winner: Best Lower Cost Safari & Travel Binocular 2012 Pentax 9x32 DCF BC Binoculars
• Winner: Best Safari & Travel Binocular 2011 Kowa 10x33 Genesis XD Binoculars

• Women's Safari Binoculars Nikon 10x36 SHE Safari Monarch ATB Binoculars

Below are links to more reviews that I have recently written on binoculars as well as night vision devices that I feel make ideal bins for your holiday. Note it also includes a wide selection of price categories and sizes:

Opticron Imagic IS 16x42 Binoculars Review

Read Full Review

Kite APC 14x50 Image Stabilized Binoculars Review

Swarovski NL Pure 8x32 Binoculars Review

Alpen Teton 10x42 Binoculars Review

Hawke Endurance ED Marine 7x32 Binoculars Review

Opticron Explorer WA ED-R 8x32 Binoculars Review

Kite apc 16x42 image stabilised binoculars review, agm asp-micro tm160 thermal imaging monocular review, steiner wildlife 8x24 binoculars review.

WildGuarder NB1 Digital Night Vision Binoculars Review

All reviews.

Those instruments listed above are just a few highlighted pairs that I have recently reviewed, if you want some more choices, please follow this link below to view: >> All Safari Binocular Reviews

Related Articles & Further Reading

• Choosing Binoculars for an Aspiring African Wildlife Expert: A Bino Guide for Wildlife Conservationist - Join Sarah Johansen, a passionate wildlife conservationist on her journey to become an African wildlife expert. Discover how I help here select the perfect safari and wildlife binoculars for her expedition, unraveling key features and top recommendations. Equip yourself for an immersive wildlife experience in the heart of Africa.
• Best Low Cost, All-Round Travel Binoculars - BinoWizard Advice with suggestions on choosing versatile travel binoculars that perform in a wide range of scenarios including safaris, whale watching, cruise ships, kayaking and general wildlife observation

• Best Mid to High End Binoculars for Safaris & Birdwatching - A reader wrote into the BinoWizard asking for recommendations as to the best 8x42 binoculars for safaris and birding with a maximum budget of $600
• Cheap Binoculars for Safari - Compact, Full Size or perhaps Mid-Size is best? - Answer to a BinoWizard question where a reader could not decide between the compact Vanguard Orros 10x25 and the full sized 8x42 Meade Rainforest Pro, I compare these and suggest a few others as well as discuss how size plays an important part at this low price point, keeping in mind that they are to be used on safari.
• Mid Range Binoculars & Night Vision for Safari Holiday - Advice I give to a reader looking to take both a night vision device and pair of binoculars on safari and who has a budget of around US$300 - $400 for each
• Which are the Best Compact Steiner Binoculars for Walking Safaris? - In this article I answer the question from someone who wants to know what are the best compact Steiner binoculars for a walking safari holiday in the Kruger, National Park, South Africa.
• Pentax DCF BC 9x32 vs Nikon 8x42 Monarch 5 Binoculars for Safaris - My advice to someone who needs help to decide between the Pentax DCF BC 9x32 & the Nikon 8x42 Monarch 5 binoculars to take on Safari in Africa.
• Cheap Compact Binoculars for Safari Holiday - I offer some suggestions to someone looking for some good, yet inexpensive compact binoculars to take on an African safari holiday.
• Inexpensive Travel Binoculars for Children & Adults - The advice I gave to a BBR reader who wrote in looking for some advice on cheap travel binoculars for themselves & their kids.
• Best 42mm Binoculars for Safaris under $450 / £450 This article is based on a question I received from a very experienced safari guide who works in the Kruger National Park in South Africa and who was looking to get a new pair of mid-range, full sized binoculars for walking and open wheel safaris.
• Low Cost 10x42 Binoculars for Safaris and Birdwatching - In response to a question I received, this article goes over some low cost 10x42 binoculars that are ideal for both bird watching and safaris.

• On Safari with Minox and Swarovski Binoculars - Why I chose to take the Minox BD 7x28 & the Swarovski CL Companion 8x30 binoculars on safari and my thoughts and findings on them both after my return.
• Field Report: On Safari with Swarovski 8x30 CL Companions - My findings and thoughts after spending some time on safari with the excellent 8x30 Swarovski CL Companion bins.
• Which Steiner Binoculars for Safaris? - I answer a question from someone looking to go on safari in Uganda and can't decide which pair of Steiner Binoculars to get.
• Safari and Aircraft Binoculars - I help someone who is looking for Mid Priced Binoculars that are ideal for plane spotting near the runway as well as for taking on safari.

• Using Night Vision Binoculars on Safari - My feedback and experiences after I came back from a safari in Zimbabwe and took some night vision binoculars with me
• Vanguard 8x42 Spirit ED Binoculars on Safari - My feedback after I came back from a safari in Zimbabwe and took a pair of Vanguard Spirit ED Binoculars with me
• Best Celestron Binoculars for Travel & Safaris - Advice to a reader who is planning a safari adventure, but can't decide between which Celestron model to get.
• Zeiss Binoculars or alternatives for Safaris - A reader asks for advice as to weather they should go on safari with an expensive pair of Zeiss binoculars or save the money and opt for a mid level Celestron or Minox pair.

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A Safari Guide's Guide To Safari Binoculars

Written in collaboration with a professional safari guide, this FREE BBR ebook will cover everything you need to know about choosing the perfect binoculars for your safari in one handy downloadable ebook.

Sounds Great! Please Email Me as soon it's published!

How to choose the best safari binoculars for African safaris

Binoculars can make all the difference when you’re out on an African safari. Sometimes a leopard is hiding in a tree, and you can only see it with the best safari binoculars.

If you’re interested in birdlife, then binoculars are essential. Even when you’re relatively close to an animal, a good set of safari binoculars helps you zoom in on the details .

In most African national parks, you must stick to the trails. That means you can’t bump across the African savannah until you’re ten meters from a cheetah. You must watch it all from a distance .

While on a safari, there are always interesting things to see: both big and small. More often than not, it can be frustrating when you can’t see something or the action is taking place far away from your vehicle.

The following is a series of the top 11 things to consider when buying your safari binoculars. This way, you’ll be able to find the best pair for your next African adventure.

Spoiler alert – I’m not going to try to sell you binoculars. My own pair is an old Russian army brand, and they have worked out best for me. With binoculars, it’s all about choosing what’s most convenient for your needs.

Best Binoculars for Safaris: 11 Things to Consider

There are many things to consider when looking for the right pair of safari binoculars . 8x or 10x? Large or compact? Nikon or Bushnell?

To help make your purchase decision as seamless as possible, here are the top 11 things to keep an eye out for when buying binoculars for safari viewing.

The choice of binoculars is wide out there, and it can get confusing when it comes to choosing a brand.

Here’s a series of names I trust and recommend: Zeiss , Nikon , Canon , Bushnell , Pentax , Swarovski , Steiner , Leica , Olympus ,  Tento, Celestron, and Fujinon .

Each of these brands offers a range of high-quality binoculars. Below is a breakdown of the best pairs for various safari needs:

• Best compact binoculars for safari : Nikon Monarch M5 10×42 .
• Best budget binoculars for safari : Bushnell 10×42 Engage X .
• Best travel binoculars for safari : Celestron 71347 Outland X .
• Best binoculars for game viewing : Swarovski 10×50 .
• Best binoculars for birdwatching : Steiner 8×42 Safari .

My motto is to buy products that last , so I usually don’t hesitate to pay a little more than the average price.

However, at the end of the day, it all depends on the purpose of your purchase. And perhaps also how “careful” you are with your personal goods.

For my part, choosing a product that ranges between $200 and $300 is a safe bet. These generally feature metal housing and high-quality cut glass lenses with occasional anti-glare coating.

They may also come with an extended or lifetime warranty , which can be useful if you’re an avid safari-goer.

If budget is a concern for you, reasonable binoculars are already on offer for $100 (don’t go for anything less than that). Good models to start off with include the Pentax Papilio or the Nikon Monarch .

If you’d like something even cheaper, there are always ways to find second-hand binoculars , especially on the web. Look for places like eBay or Grovers Optics.

3. Eye relief

Eye relief is the optimal distance between your eye and the eyepiece (a combination of lenses at the viewing end of your binoculars).

When your eyes are either too close or too far away from the eyepieces, you cannot see the whole picture, and part of the image blacks out.

For people wearing glasses, it is best to have an eye relief of at least 15 mm (not applicable for people with good eyesight).

4. Field of view

The field of view (FOV) is the width of the view at a particular distance. Generally speaking, the greater the magnification, the narrower the field of view.

FOV becomes especially important when you are following fast-moving objects (such as Africa’s safari birds ) or running mammals (like a cheetah chasing its prey ). In this case, do not consider magnification greater than 8x.

For the best results on your African safari, choose a pair of binoculars with a field of view of at least 330 ft at 1000 yards .

5. Lens size/objective lens/aperture

Any pair of binoculars features a specific set of numbers, such as 8×42 or 10×50.

The second number represents the diameter of your objective lens . The larger the number, the more light passes through the lens, and the brighter and more colorful your image becomes.

Good lens size is a must when used in fading light or when looking at objects in the shade, for instance. For optimal results and enhanced image quality, go for “ fully multi-coated ” lenses.

In addition to this, the coating protects your lenses against scratches. The coated surface is also too slick for dirt or dust to adhere to, and it rarely fogs up, too.

6. Magnification of the safari binoculars: 8x or 10x or 12x

Magnification corresponds to how big you see a certain scene in comparison to how big or small it really looks from where you stand.

For example, a magnification power of 8x means that the image will be 8 times bigger than seen with the naked eye.

If the technical specification of a pair of binoculars is 10×50, then objects are magnified by 10 , etc.

But what is the best binocular magnification for safaris?

Generally, you should avoid anything below 8x or above 10x. Below 8x offers a shorter range and poorer image quality, while greater than 10x is harder to focus.

For these reasons, it is best to stick to 8x or 10x. If you’re holding the binoculars without the assistance of a tripod, then magnification of 10 is ideal .

NB : While magnification is essential, image stability tends to decrease as you increase its importance.

For magnification greater than 10x, consider using a tripod or a window mount (some of the more expensive binoculars have built-in image stabilizing systems).

7. Purpose/usage

What is the purpose of your buy, and how do you intend to use your new pair of binoculars? Being clear on your purpose enables you to know how much you are willing to spend on them.

How often do you intend to use your safari binoculars? There is no need to spend hundreds (if not thousands in some cases) of dollars if you are only to use them once, so think carefully .

Are you more of a bird lover or an animal enthusiast ? As stated previously (review the “Field of View” section), you cannot follow fast-moving things easily if your magnification is too big.

Let me recap :

• For bird viewing , use binoculars with a magnification of 8x maximum (8×42 for better results).
• For general animal spotting and optimal game viewing (or when you need to scan the horizon), consider buying 10×50 safari binoculars.

8. Quality/shock resistance

There are two essential aspects to reflect on: the “armoring of your binoculars” and the “glass quality” from which your prisms are made of.

Look for protective rubber (or synthetic housing) that prevents scratches and damage from bumpy roads.

Also, make sure that your prisms are BAK-4 models (instead of BK-7 or K9). They have a higher refractive index and provide superior levels of image quality.

9. Waterproofing

Optimum waterproofing not only protects your instrument from moisture and humidity but also prevents dust from damaging it.

10. Weight and size

Think practicality . Compact binoculars are both light and easily transported anywhere. These are ideal for seeing birdlife on safari .

Disadvantage : Compact binoculars lose out in magnification, image detail and precision.

In other words, try to find a good compromise between your wants and your needs.

11. Binoculars type

It’s important to understand the different binocular types when searching for optical instruments for game viewing. The two key types you need to consider are the porro prism and roof prism binoculars.

Porro prism is the more traditional pair where the large objective lenses are offset from the eyepiece.

The roof prism has a more modern design. The lenses are in line with the eyepiece, allowing for a slim, compact look.

Other than the appearance, the key difference between the two binocular types relates to the way in which they reflect light from the objective lenses to the eyes.

With a roof prism pair, you will need greater precision for high-quality images.

On the other hand, porro prisms have an easier time producing a better quality image , making it the more favorable of the two.

My Own Pair of Binoculars for African Safaris

My personal pair of binoculars is made in Russia ( Tento ; army type), and I must say it is probably the best buy ever (despite their relatively heavy weight).

I have had them for over 20 years now, and they still provide the most amazing images. Besides, I have never had any problems with them (fingers crossed).

Test the Best Binoculars for African Safaris

I’d recommend buying a pair of binoculars long before you go on safari. It’s no use turning up to Africa without taking them out of the wrapper.

Purchase them at least a month before . That will give you time to practice using the binoculars, meaning you don’t waste any time when on safari.

You want to be the person in the safari vehicle who can tell if it’s a cheetah or leopard in the distant high grass.

Play with the settings before you travel because the best safari binoculars are only as good as the person using them!

Do You Need a Pair of Binoculars for Safari Trips?

You now know how to choose binoculars for safaris, but you may be wondering if they are necessary .

For most, it helps to have binoculars on safari trips as the African animals and birds may not be as close as you think.

As such, safari binoculars are essential for getting a closer view. Just remember to opt for a robust pair with quality optics , and you’re good to go.

Get Your Binoculars for Safari Viewing

Now that you know what encompasses a good pair of binoculars, it’s time to take them out and discover the wild .

After all, there’s plenty to see that you might miss otherwise, including lions hiding in the grass, small antelope springing in the distance, and so much more.

Wondering where to start? Check out these incredible safari deals and start making the most out of your game viewing experiences with your trusty pair of safari binoculars!

About The Author

Michael Theys

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Best Binoculars for Safari in 2023

A pair of binoculars can make or break a safari trip. Get something too heavy, and you’ll be cursing yourself for having to carry a freaking cantaloupe for the better part of the day. But get something too small, and you won’t be able to get a good view of the animals.

It’s important to find binoculars that are somewhere between ultra-portable and ultra-clear images. And we have ten great options in mind, which we will tell you all about in this detailed review.

At A Glance: Our Top 3 Binocular Choices

• Best Overall Nikon 7577 MONARCH 5 10x42 Safari Binoculars Jump To Review
• Most Affordable SkyGenius 10 x 50 Powerful Binoculars For Safari Jump To Review
• Lightest Option Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars Jump To Review

Oh, and if you’re traveling with a partner, be sure to get a pair of binoculars for safari for them as well. You don’t want to rely on just one pair for the two of you – that can break not just a safari trip, but also a marriage!

Top Product Overview

Best binoculars for a safari, nikon 7577 monarch 5 10x42 safari binoculars.

The Nikon Monarch binoculars are iconic. If you’re not exactly sure how to choose a pair of binoculars, these are by far the safest bet. They perform incredibly well in all sorts of weather conditions, they offer extremely sharp and clear images, and they’re pretty lightweight and portable.

The only issue is the price point – the Monarch is a pair of premium binoculars, which will set you back several hundreds of dollars. But you won’t have to get another pair of binoculars in your life, and you can easily pass them on to your kids and then grandkids – definitely a worthwhile investment.

Another downside of these is that they don’t have the screw that lets you mount them on top of a tripod. There is an adapter for them, but you have to purchase it separately, and it will set you back at least another $20-30.

These are wide-angle binoculars, with a field of view of 1000 yards. They offer 10x magnification, with a lens diameter of 42mm that ensures bright images even in low light conditions. And the Multicoated Eco-Glass Lenses allow even more light to enter the lenses, for sharp and bright images at any time of the day.

On top of that, the Monarch binoculars are fully waterproof and fog proof, so you can safely use them in all sorts of weather conditions. They have a rubber-armored body that is both lightweight and very grippy, so they feel comfortable and sturdy in your hands.

One thing to note is that the Monarch 5 is a vast improvement over the older models. The glass on the Monarch 5 is much higher quality, which allows for clearer and sharper images. So, if you want to enjoy the safari in all its glory, this is by far one of the best pairs of binoculars for you.

• Clear and sharp image
• Fogproof and waterproof
• Lightweight with a wide lens diameter
• Can’t be mounted on a tripod

Product Information

• Magnification: 10x
• Lens Diameter: 42mm
• Weight: 1.35 lbs

Gosky 10x42 Roof Prism Binoculars

The Gosky binoculars are a great mid-range option . They have 10x magnification with a large field of view, which means clear images of animals that are very far away. Especially with the 42mm lenses, which perform really well even in low light conditions.

These binoculars are equipped with BAK4 prism, which ensures bright and crisp images. In addition to that, the eyecups are padded, for ultimate comfort even after prolonged viewing periods.

These have a rainproof and fog-proof body, so they’re going to be easy to use in all sorts of weather conditions. Moisture, dust, and various debris are prevented from entering the optics, ensuring that your binoculars remain functional and perfect no matter when and where you decide to use them.

A really cool thing about these binoculars is that they have a smartphone adapter. That’s right – they let you attach your smartphone to the lens so that you can take effortlessly take awesome images and immediately share them on social media. It’s not enough that all your friends know you’re on an African safari – now you can also rub it in their faces.

Jokes aside, that is a very useful feature for taking memorable photographs. Sure, you can always use a phone to take cool photos through the binoculars, but that’s so much easier to do when you don’t have to worry about keeping your phone aligned with the binoculars’ lenses.

• Travel case included
• Great for low light conditions
• Smartphone adapter included
• A little heavy
• Poor quality of travel bag and neck strap
• Weight: 1.54 lbs

Aurosports 10x25 Folding High Powered Compact Binoculars

If you’re primarily looking for portable safari binoculars, then these binoculars from Aurosports are a decent option. They fold down, and they are small enough to fit into your hand, making them an awesome option for travel. On top of that, these safari binoculars weigh only 12 ounces, so you won’t even feel them in your bag. And they come with a soft carrying pouch that will protect you from the contents of your bag.

The max magnification of these is 10x, which is actually really good. But their lens diameter is only 25mm, so don’t expect great performance in low light conditions. They are equipped with night vision, which is pretty cool, but it’s still not enough to guarantee bright and sharp images at dusk.

Additionally, the night vision only works well in low-light conditions, and not in total darkness. When it’s pitch black outside, you won’t be able to see a thing with these binoculars.

The Aurosport binoculars have rubber eyecups, which will keep you comfortable after long periods of use. In addition to that, they also have rubber grips that help you hold on to them in rainy weather.

Bear in mind that it’s okay to use these in light rain, but you should avoid using them in heavy rain. And you should never submerge them entirely.

Overall, this is a decent pair of entry-level binoculars. But don’t expect incredibly clear images or outstanding low-light performance – after all, you get what you pay for.

• Lightweight and portable
• Rubber grips and eye cups
• Not great in low light conditions
• Poor quality strap
• Lens Diameter: 25mm
• Weight: 12 oz

SkyGenius 10 x 50 Powerful Binoculars For Safari

The SkyGenius binoculars are a great affordable option. They’re under $50, so a great choice for those of you that are looking for a quick and cheap solution. And this is actually a really good pair of binoculars – with a lens diameter of 50mm, you can enjoy safari even in really low light conditions.

The images will always be sharp and bright since the lens is able to let more light in. And they have 10x magnification, which lets you really see the animals up close.

These binoculars are made from aluminum, with a rubber coating. They are very grippy, so you don’t need to worry about the binoculars slipping from your hands in rainy weather. In addition to that, the sturdy construction makes them resistant to rain, fog, and other weather elements. But only resistant – these are not waterproof, and you should never fully submerge them.

One thing to note is that the 50mm wide lens diameter means that these are heavier than most other binoculars featured here. They weigh 1.75 lbs, which isn’t exactly portable, but it’s still not ridiculously heavy.

On top of all that, the SkyGenius binoculars for safari feature rubber eyecups, for ultimate comfort after long periods of use. The eyecups are foldable, so even people who wear glasses can enjoy using these.

And they have a big, smooth focus wheel, which is very simple and intuitive to use. Plus, the corrective optical coating guarantees color fidelity and minimal distortion, which means sharp, clear, and natural-looking images at all times.

• Excellent in low light conditions
• Rubber coating on the body
• Foldable rubber eye cups
• Quite heavy
• Not fully waterproof
• Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Weight: 1.75 lbs

Nikon 8245 ACULON A211 8x42

Nikon is a well-established brand when it comes to cameras and DSLRs, and they also make pretty good binoculars. The Aculon A211 is an awesome pair for safari – it features a 42mm diameter lens, for great clarity in low light conditions. And they have 8x magnification, so you can really get up close with the animals.

These are actually made with Aspherical Multicoated Eco-Glass Lenses, which guarantee a clear and sharp image in most lighting conditions. And they feature Turn-and-Slide rubber eyecups that are fairly soft against your skin. This helps you stay comfortable after prolonged use, and lets you use the binoculars for long periods of time without any soreness.

Another thing you’ll love about the Nikon safari binoculars is the ease of use. They have a focus knob at the center, which is very smooth and intuitive to use.

The exterior of these binoculars is coated with rubber, so they are very grippy. This also means improved performance in wet weather, since the rubber will keep them from getting slippery.

The only downside of these Nikon binoculars is that they are actually quite heavy. At almost 1.7 lbs, they’re amongst the heaviest safari binocular features here. But they’re also one of the best-performing pairs, especially considering the overall quality of build, ease of use, and image clarity.

• Great for low-light conditions
• Rubber coating
• Rubber eye cups
• A bit heavy
• Hard case is not included
• Magnification: 8x
• Weight: 1.68 lbs

Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binocular

The Bushnell binoculars are one of the best performing pairs out of the bunch. They feature a 42mm wide lens, which lets it just enough light to guarantee great visibility even in poor conditions. And you can actually choose between binoculars with 8x or 10x magnification, so pick up the pair that you think is best suited for your needs.

One thing I love about these is that they are entirely waterproof and fog proof. The textured rubber exterior ensures that you always have plenty of grips and that they don’t slip out of your hands even in rainy weather. In addition to that, these are O ring sealed, which guarantees fog-free performance.

The Bushnell safari binoculars feature BAK4 prisms and multi-coated optics, for crystal clear and sharp images at all times. And they have a large focus knob at the center, which is intuitive and very easy to use.

They are a bit heavy at nearly 1.6 lbs, but that’s a compromise you have to make if you want sturdy and reliable safari binoculars. And they have rubber twist-off rubber eyecups that are comfortable even after really long periods of use. Plus, those who wear glasses can twist them off, in order to use the binoculars quite naturally.

You get a neck strap and a travel pouch with these, as well as protective rubber covers for the lenses. Overall, this is definitely one of the best pairs of safari binoculars out of the bunch; they’re the perfect balance of quality, performance, and affordability.

• Waterproof and fogproof
• Non-slip rubber grips
• Lens covers are not attached to the body of binoculars
• Magnification: 8x/10x
• Weight: 1.56 lbs

Wingspan Optics FieldView 8X32 Compact Binoculars

Here’s a great pair of portable binoculars for safari – the Wingspan Optics FieldView binoculars weigh less than 1lb, making them an awesome option for travel. They’re lightweight and small enough that you can hold them in the palm of your hand, making them the perfect portable option.

On top of that, these actually have a decent lens diameter. With 32mm wide lenses, you will actually be able to see something in low light conditions, so they’re really not a bad option for safari evenings! Sure, the image won’t as bright and crisp as with a 42mm lens, but it’s going to be much better than the one from a 25mm lens.

Even though these don’t have textured rubber at the sides, they’re grippy enough that they won’t slip from your hands. You can use these binoculars in light rain, but they’re not fully waterproof so avoid using them in heavy downpours. Additionally, don’t ever fully submerge these binoculars underwater, since that could damage them beyond repair.

The eyecups on these binoculars are padded, and they feel comfortable even after longer use. They also twist off, so you can remove them entirely if you want to use the binoculars with a pair of glasses.

Overall, this is a great option if you’re looking for something that performs well and isn’t too expensive. But if you want mind-blowing performance in low light, you will probably be disappointed.

• Decent field of view
• Twist-off eye cups
• Not excellent in low-light conditions
• Not waterproof
• Lens Diameter: 32mm
• Weight: 0.95 lbs

Steiner Optics Predator Series Binoculars

If you just want a crystal clear image, you can always go with a pair of professional binoculars. And that’s exactly what these ones by Steiner Optics are – they are primarily designed for hunting and shooting, and they offer sharp images in all sorts of weather and light conditions.

The focus knob is very sensitive, and you only need to turn it slightly to get a good close-up image. And the 42mm lenses of the Predator binoculars have Color Adjusted Transmission (CAT) – lens coating that amplifies the contrast and helps you notice animals easier.

In addition to that, these binoculars are entirely waterproof and fog proof, so you can use them in any sort of weather. The eyecups on the Predator are contoured and padded, for maximum comfort even with prolonged use. And they feature textured non-slip grips so that you never have to worry about dropping them.

The Steiner binoculars also feature a Clicloc System, which allows you to attach and release the neck strap with the push of a button. This is pretty useful if you want to lend them to someone for a moment, or if you’re planning to share a pair of binoculars on the safari.

These even come with a lifetime Heritage warranty. Steiner will replace any defects on the binoculars, and you don’t even need to bring in a receipt. But I think the extensive warranty is a must, considering the really high price point, which is off-putting for a lot of people.

Yes, these are expensive, but think of them like the Ferrari of binoculars. You’ll enjoy the safari in HD, and they are so well made that even your grandkids can get to use them one day.

• CAT lens coating
• Fast focus and sharp image
• Very expensive
• Not very lightweight
• Weight: 1.66 lbs

Adorrgon 12x42 Powerful Binoculars For Safari

The Adorrgon binoculars are probably the best affordable option you can get. They have a lot of great features, they are very lightweight and they cost only around $40 – pretty great for such a good pair of binoculars!

These have 12x magnification, which is amazing for observing animals that are really far away. And with 42mm lens diameter, they let enough light so that all images are sharp and clear any time of the day. These perform really well even in low light conditions, and they are a great option for evening safari tours.

The best thing about the Adorrgon binoculars is how lightweight they are. At 1.1 lbs, this is the lightest pair of binoculars that have wide lenses, and that’s reason enough to get them.

These have a durable, anti-slip exterior, so they are pretty grippy even without textured sides. The BAK4 prism ensures that the image is always sharp and clear, even when you zoom in 12 times. And the multi-coated lenses make the colors a bit brighter, while still keeping them as true as possible.

One downside of these affordable safari binoculars is that they are neither waterproof nor fog proof. They have some water resistance, so you can use them in light rain, but not in heavy downpours. And you shouldn’t ever fully submerge them, since that could permanently damage the lenses.

The padded eye cups can be individually adjusted, and fully taken off for enjoyable viewing with glasses.

• Very affordable
• Extremely lightweight
• Great for use in low light
• Not waterproof or fogproof
• Not as sharp as more expensive binoculars
• Magnification: 12x
• Weight: 1.1 lbs

Xgazer Optics 12x50 Ultra HD Certvision Safari Binoculars

The Xgazer binoculars are professional grade, and they’re a great option for people who are looking for something sturdy and durable, but not quite as expensive as Steiner. These are waterproof and fog proof, so suitable for use in all sorts of weather conditions.

The great thing about these is that you can actually choose the magnification and lens diameter. They range from 8×32 to 12×50, and each pair costs and weighs differently. Of course, the binoculars with smaller lens diameters are cheaper and lighter, while the wider ones tend to be more expensive.

But, at least you have the ability to choose, so you really can get a pair that’s exactly right for you. I would recommend the 10×42 as the best middle ground – they’re not too heavy, the magnification is more than enough for a safari trip, and the lens is wide enough for bright images in the evenings.

In terms of image quality, the Xgazer binoculars perform just as well as other high-end binoculars. Especially since these feature anti-reflective lens coating, which ensures crystal clear images in really bright weather.

On top of all that, they come with a bunch of useful accessories, including a hardshell carrying case, a neck strap, lens covers, and a microfiber cleaning cloth.

• Excellent image quality
• Very durable and sturdy
• Binoculars with wide lenses are rather heavy
• Magnification: 8x - 12x
• Lens Diameter: 32mm - 50mm
• Weight: 1 lb - 2.3 lbs

If this is your first pair of safari binoculars, I’m guessing you don’t know much about the meaning behind those numbers on them. Well, they actually tell you a lot about a particular pair of binoculars, so let’s talk about them.

The first number on the lens lets you know how much magnification it allows. So, 4x means that the animals will look like they are four times closer than they actually are, while 12x means they’ll appear twelve times closer.

The ideal binoculars for safari have 8x or 10x magnification.  This lets you really zoom in on the animals, while still maintaining the sharpness of the image. Binoculars with higher magnification might seem appealing, but oftentimes you’ll find that the image you get from them is too blurry to actually enjoy it.

The second number marks the diameter of the lens in millimeters.  This lets you know how much light the lens can let in –  the higher the number, the more light gets in.  But,  wider lenses also mean heavier binoculars , which is why most travel-friendly pairs don’t really go above 28. Those don’t perform that well in low light conditions, so they’re not ideal if you’re looking to go on safari in the evenings.

The overall best lens diameter to look for is 42. This is the best balance of clarity and weight – the binoculars perform very well in low light conditions, but they’re still not so heavy that you’ll be put off by carrying them.

Portability

The ideal pair of safari binoculars would be portable and lightweight, but we don’t live in an ideal world.

Here’s the catch – you can find loads of small, portable binoculars, but their performance is often going to be underwhelming. The weight of a pair of binoculars is in direct correlation with the diameter of its lens and in turn the performance in low light condition.

So, what do you prioritize  – portability or performance? If it’s the first, then look for binoculars that can be folded down and packed into a small pouch, as well as pairs that are very lightweight.

If it is the latter, you will need to sacrifice portability, and come to terms with the fact that you need to get a pair of binoculars that weight 1.5lbs+.  But, at least you can be sure that  they   will perform exceptionally well in different light conditions.

Weather Resistance

If you want to get high-quality binoculars that can work in all sorts of weather conditions, you need to  look for something sturdy.  The best pairs are waterproof and fogproof, and perform equally well in different weather conditions.

If you get binoculars that are just water and fog resistant, you need to treat them more carefully.  Those should never be fully submerged underwater because water could get inside the lens, which would permanently damage them.

So, do you want a pair of binoculars that works only for a hot, African safari, or a pair that you can use for birdwatching, hunting, and even surfing?

Binoculars that are not fully waterproof perform okay in light rain, but they shouldn’t be used in heavy downpours . In addition to that, the image won’t be as clear in wet weather, so bear that in mind.

How much can you afford to spend on a pair of binoculars for safari?  I showed you options from $40 to $400, so there should be something for you here regardless of your budget.

But remember that you get what you pay for.  A $40 pair of binoculars most likely won’t last you decades, The rubber might get worn out over the years, and the warranty will only cover the first couple of years of use.

That’s not the case with the $400 binoculars. Those usually come with lifetime warranties, and they’re an item that will remain in your family for generations. However, not everyone actually needs such an expensive pair of binoculars. If you won’t use them for anything other than that safari trip you have planned, then you’ll be fine with a more affordable pair.

But, if you want to bring them on hiking and camping trips, then it’s a good idea to go for a more expensive pair. It’s like with most things in life –  if you’re looking to buy something that you know you will use a lot, it’s always better to spend more money now, because you’re saving money in the long run.

Best Binoculars For Safari: Our Favorite Options

Not quite sure which of these binoculars is the best fit for you? Go with one of our top three choices and you will not be disappointed!

If you are prioritizing portability, get the Adorrgon Safari Binoculars .  With a weight of  only 1.1 lbs,  they are the lightest pair that still offers clear and bright images. They have  a lens diameter of 42mm , which is great for low light conditions.

These also allow you to  zoom in up to 12 times,  ensuring that you will be able to spot all those animals that are far away. And they are  pretty affordable,  making them an awesome option if you don’t really plan to use them for anything other than the safari trip!

• 【Powerful 12x42 Binoculars, but Lightweight Enough, only 1.1 pounds】 Adorrgon 12x42mm binoculars deliver 367ft/1000yds large field of view. Capable of delivering a clear image from more than 650 feet away. Perfect for bird watching, hunting and sports events. 0.6 Pounds lighter than 10x50 full size binoculars.
• 【Clear Low Light Vision】Advanced Fully Multi-coated Binoculars with large 16.5mm BAK4 prism lens could deliver brighter vision in weak light conditions . Perfect for Hunting or Concerts at night.

If you’re looking to get a pair of binoculars that will last you for decades, I would recommend the Nikon Monarch 5 .  They are  10x42mm binoculars,  so they’re actually perfect for a safari. The  wide lens lets in a lot of light,  making them great even in low light, while  the magnification makes animals appear up to 10 times closer.

And they’re pretty  lightweight at 1.35 lbs,  so they’re actually quite travel-friendly. On top of that, the Monarch binoculars are  entirely waterproof and fogproof,  meaning that they perform equally well in all sorts of weather conditions.

• All Monarch 5 binoculars are now built with Nikon's premium ED (Extra-low dispersion); Glass for a sharper, clearer and more brilliant field of view.
• Almost an ounce lighter than its predecessor, the new Monarch 5 is even easier to bring along on your next adventure.

For those of you that are looking to get the best affordable binoculars I recommend the SkyGenius ones .  They are  under $50, with a lens diameter of 50mm and magnification power of 10x.

These are actually really good binoculars – the image won’t as sharp on the ones that cost ten times as much, but it’s definitely not going to be ten times worse. They are  great in low light conditions, and come with all the accessories you need to enjoy your safari trip!

• [Professional Powerful Binoculars] SkyGenius 10x50 Binoculars Designed with 10X power magnification, 50mm large objective lens, and 367ft/1000yds large field of view are ideal for fast-moving subjects such as bird watching, driving, sports events.
• [Weak Light Vision with Quality Optics] Design of Aspherical lenses and multi-layer coating guarantee excellent light transmission and well improve image brightness, contrast, and quality. birding binoculars can be used at night, but not in complete darkness

Those are the top three pairs we recommend, but any pair of binoculars featured here will work well for a safari. Head over to Amazon to see and compare their prices!

And check out our post below to find the perfect harness for your new binoculars.

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5 Best Binoculars For Safaris (See All of Africa)

You might already have a pair of killer binoculars for bird watching but going on a safari is a whole different ball game.

You’re going to want…   

... the best safari binoculars out there so you don’t miss a thing on your big trip. 

Compared to professional bird watching binoculars, safari binoculars need to be just as high quality but also lightweight and super durable.

As well as a range of exotic birds, you’ll get to see incredible animals from elephants to cheetahs on your big trip and what better way to see them than through the best binoculars for safari.

Page Contents

1. Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 - Best Overall

2. eyeskey pro waterproof binoculars - most affordable, 3. celestron outland binoculars - best budget buy, 4. bushnell h2o binocular - other budget option, 5. occer compact binoculars - most compact, why do i need binoculars for safari, magnification, objective lens diameter, best compact binoculars for safari, best budget binoculars for african safari, best safari binoculars for low lighting.

The Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 has got to be the best overall binoculars for African safari because although they are professional quality, they are still reasonably priced which is always a winning combination in my eyes.

You might recognize the popular camera brand and the quality of their binoculars is just as good as their cameras. Nikon knows a bit about high-quality definition and lenses, so you can expect a crisp center focus with these binoculars. They are also built with Nikon’s Extra-Low Dispersion glass for a broad field of view, meaning you won’t miss a thing.

With a 42mm objective lens diameter and multi-coated eco glass, you’ll be able to see even in low lighting which is just what you want on a safari as you’re sure to be treated to a beautiful night-time session during your trip. 

Knowing that you’ll need a light pair of binoculars to travel with, this model is an ounce lighter than the previous model at 1.3lbs. Finally, built for extreme conditions; these binoculars are waterproof, fog-proof, and have a rubber-armored body so you don’t have to worry about any accidental drops or damage while traveling. Having said that, they’re not easy to drop anyway thanks to the non-slip grip.

The only issue customers have had is with the eye rubbers which can come loose but this can be addressed by making sure you attach them properly according to the instructions.

• High-quality lens
• Resilient (waterproof and fog proof)
• Durable rubber-armored body
• Lightweight
• Eye rubbers can come loose if not attached correctly

These are the top pick for the best binoculars for safari because of the high quality which comes at a reasonable price. We’re confident that they will suit most safari-goers.

Another very affordable option is the Eyesky Pro waterproof binoculars. As the name suggests, these binoculars are waterproof, fog-proof and rubber armor coated for durability.

The hardcore design is complemented by the full 10x magnification for spotting everything from large safari animals to unique birds. The multi-coated eco-glass lenses and phase correction coated BaK-prism might sound pretty technical but they basically just mean that you’ll be able to see well in low light and across the entire visible light spectrum so what you see looks crisp and high definition.

The angle of view also makes it easy to find your subject so you’re not aimlessly skimming the horizon for that rare bird. This definitely makes them one of the best safari binoculars for bird watching. Again, the lens is 42mm and although these binoculars are slightly bigger than the Nikon, they are easy to hold and aren’t too bulky, weighing just 1.42lbs.

Some customers have complained that the long-distance image quality isn’t as good as expected but the vast majority of users are more than happy with these and why wouldn’t you be for such reasonably priced professional quality safari binoculars.

• Waterproof, fog-proof, rubber armor coated
• Eco-glass, phase correction lenses
• Easy view finding angle
• Not the best for long-distance

If you are looking for an affordable option in the world of professional quality binoculars, these won’t disappoint. They are a great option for bird watching and safari.

This popular and super affordable Celestron Outland Binoculars are the best budget binoculars for an African safari. For high resolution and contrast, they come with multi-coated optics and BaK-4 prisms. The glass used for these lenses also enhances color and provides a crisp view with up to 10 times magnification.

Waterproof and fog proof, you won’t have to worry about these binoculars when you’re out on safari, no matter what the weather conditions. For even more durability, they have been filled and sealed with dry nitrogen gas which also helps to reduce internal fogging of the lenses so you don’t lose that crisp view.

The protective rubber covering protects the binoculars and provides a secure, anti-slip grip surface. To adjust the view, you can also twist the eyecups which is easy to do and quick, for precise focus and a full field of vision. This makes them great for bird watching as you need to focus fast to spot moving birds.

Weighing 2lbs, these are slightly heavier than other options so if weight limits are a real concern on your trip, you might want to think about leaving a little room in your baggage. The lens diameter is also 42mm which is great for a budget option although some people have found that the focus isn’t always on point.

• Fast and easy focus
• Enhanced color
• Secure anti-slip material
• Durable waterproof and fog proof material
• Heavier than other options
• Focus can be off

If this is your first safari and you’re looking for a super budget-friendly option, these binoculars are a great choice. Just don’t expect them to live up to the quality of professional binoculars.

Another good budget option is these Bushnell binoculars . With good HD clarity, BaK-4 prism, and multi-coated optics, you’ll get clear images with great light transmission.

The high-quality material is made to be waterproof, fog proof, and non-slip with a rubber armor which is comfortable thanks to the soft texture grip which absorbs shock so you can hold on to them all day, no matter how bumpy the ride.

With 8 times magnification and a 42mm objective diameter, these are certainly an impressive budget option. They also have a 12-foot close focus and 17 mm eye relief for long days out animal and bird watching, making these the best binoculars for comfort on an African safari. 

What’s more, the large center focus knob is easy to adjust at a moment’s notice when you spot the bird or animal you’ve been looking for all day. A simple twist of the eyecups allows you to adjust your focus immediately.

Weighing 1.56 lbs, these are some of the best compact binoculars for safari and you’ll barely notice them in your pocket. They are also a great option for beginners or your first-time safari as they won’t cost you much but you won’t miss out on anything.

Although the focus is easy to adjust and fast, some people did find it difficult to get just right which can be a bit frustrating when you’re out on safari.

• Waterproof, fog proof and non-slip rubber material
• Comfortable grip
• Can be difficult to get in focus with eyecup twists

These are another good budget option. The only issue is with the focus which can be difficult to get spot-on for those fast-moving animals and birds.

With a 25mm objective lens, the Occer Compact is the best compact binoculars for safari as they are small enough to fit in one hand. They are also a great pick for kids because of their small size and ease of use.

The 12x magnification is great for long-distance safari animals and spotting smaller birds but using the full 12 times zoom can make it difficult to focus. However, the wide field of view also broadens the area you can see so you don’t miss anything and the BaK-4 prism ensure a crisp image. The adjustable eyecups make them a comfortable fit for everyone and you can even use them while wearing glasses or sunglasses.

To reflect the right amount of light, these binoculars feature FMC multi-layer broadband green film and the eyepiece is made of blue FMC coating. This means that you’ll get the closest colors to the real thing.

Made from ABS plastic and with non-slip rubber armor, these binoculars are very durable which is great considering they are super affordable. They are also shockproof and light and water-resistant. The only issue is that the low light features haven’t held up to customers' expectations so you might not get the best views on your night safari.

• Lightweight and easy to use with one hand
• Great for kids
• Comfortable eyecups
•   Shockproof, light and water-resistant
• Durable material
• Not good in low light

For a beginner pair of binoculars, these are definitely a great choice. Just don’t expect top of the range professional features like low light vision.

If you are going on a safari for the first time, then you might expect to see animals up close but, in reality, a lot of the rarer animals won’t come so close to your safari jeep so you’ll need binoculars if you really want to get the most out of your trip.

You might already have an expensive pair of professional bird watching binoculars but these aren’t ideal for safari either. What you really need is something compact, lightweight, and durable that can take on any weather and harsh environments. This is why it is important to have the best binoculars for safari. 

But of course, you can also take along your best birding binoculars even on a safari trip! 🙂

What To Look For In The Best Safari Binoculars

Most binoculars can magnify between 8 and 12 times. Of course, you’ll want higher magnification for objects that are further away and you can expect a lot of animals you want to spot on safari to be in the distance. However, although some binoculars have higher magnification, the image is not always as clear as narrowing your field of vision will make the image more unstable.

The best magnification for safari binoculars is 8 or 10 times as they are still stable but allow you to zoom in on the animals and birds you really want to see without that annoying shakiness or lack of focus.

The next thing to look for is the objective lens diameter . This review features safari binoculars of 25mm to 42mm. A larger lens means your binoculars will be able to take in light more effectively creating a clearer image. This means that larger lenses are better for low lighting conditions and, if you are going on a night safari, a larger lens is essential.   

Although a larger lens means clearer images, they are also bigger and if you really prioritize compact binoculars for safari, you might want to sacrifice lens size for space.

Eye relief can be measured by the distance between your eye and the eyepiece lens at which you can still see the full field of vision. For greater comfort, you should be able to hold the binoculars away from your eye and still see clearly through them.

Although some people like to hold the binoculars to their eye to stabilize them, after a full day on safari you might need to allow your eyes to relax by holding the binoculars slightly further away. This is also especially important for people who wear glasses as you will need the added space to protect your glasses from colliding with the binoculars on the safari jeep.

Just like the size of the binoculars, weight is also a big consideration on safari as you might need to move around a lot with your binoculars and heavy pair are going to become quite cumbersome. For more compact binoculars for safari, you can easily get a pair around 1-2lbs which will be easy to transport both in your luggage and around your neck but you can get even lighter compact binoculars for safari if weight is a big factor for you.

All the safari binoculars in this review are designed to handle rough outdoor conditions well. They are all waterproof and feature durable rubber armor to protect the lenses from drops or bumps on the road. Of course, the more expensive the binoculars, the higher quality the material so if you are looking for the most durable pair, you might have to spend a bit more.

Which Are The Best Safari Binoculars For Me?

The right safari binoculars will depend on what you need and how much of a safari enthusiast you are. All the binoculars in this review are fit for their purpose but some have specific features that might make them the stand-out choice for you.

If you are really pushing the weight limit on your luggage to the max or just don’t really want to be lugging around a heavy pair of binoculars on your big trip, the best travel binoculars for safari are the Occer Compact Binoculars weighing just 0.65lbs and fitting in one hand. This makes them the lightest, compact binoculars by far but the 12 times magnification might get a bit shaky with such small binoculars.

Similarly, if your biggest concern when looking for a pair of safari binoculars is the price, you can still get a reliable pair without spending a fortune. The Celestron Outland Binoculars are a great budget option as they are very affordable but still provide high-resolution images and are durable.

A great all-round pair of binoculars and also the best option for a night safari and low lighting is the Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 . The 42mm lenses mean high-quality images in both natural lighting and low lighting so you won’t miss a thing on safari. The 8 times magnification is also sturdy while providing crisp images which makes them even easier to focus in low lighting.

The best binoculars for African safari overall have got to be the Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 . They are built to handle any climate and lighting which is just what you want on an African safari when you just don’t know what to expect.

Made from durable, waterproof material with a rubber armor which will protect these binoculars from anything you throw at them, these are a mid-range product which is sure to last you for plenty of trips to come.

If you are looking for some solid binoculars for safari, all the options in this review are great choices, it just depends on which pair meet all of your needs.  

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Garrett Hayes

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Africa Wanderlust

Best Binoculars For Safari: A Magnified African Experience

You must have met at least one person in your life who complained about a recent safari trip.  Their biggest disappointment would be because of the animals being too far away and hard to spot. Then, how are you supposed to get a clear view of the wild animals without risking your lives? The ultimate answer is our best binoculars for safari.

Keep reading to find out how a safari binocular will enhance the quality of your safari vacation and what you need to consider before buying one.

Best Binoculars for Safari in 2021

Based on the benchmark we mentioned above, here are our top picks for the best safari binoculars.

Celestron 71347 Outland X – Most Compact of the Best Binoculars for Safari

With a magnification and lens size of 10×25, Celestron Outland X is one of the foremost compact best binoculars for a safari experience out there. Although the lens diameter is at the lower threshold for light absorption, Outland X makes up for it with its multi-coated optics and a unique Bak-4 prism for unobstructed views in the dark. On top of that, unlike many roof-prism binoculars, it has waterproofing.

Bushnell H20 Waterproof Binocular

Bushnell has a reputation for making the most durable binoculars, and H20 is one of its best cards. H20 comes with 42 mm, the largest lens diameter compatible with a compact binocular, and an integrated Bak-4 prism to enhance the quality. As its name suggests, it is 100% waterproof but also coated with a soft texture to allow a comfortable grip.

Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 – Most Shock Resistant of the Best Binoculars for Safari

Nikon is one of the best brands in binocular-manufacturing. One of their latest products – Nikon Monarch stands out for its very long eye-relief, allowing you to hold it far away from your eyes. The rubber material makes it resistant to impact and getting wet, while the 42 mm lens enables you to see even the shyest of nocturnal animals in complete darkness.

Nikon Prostaff 3S Binoculars

Prostar 3S boasts the same qualities as Monarch, with a bonus of 10x zoom instead of 8. The 42 mm lens diameter makes one assume that it is a bulky binocular, but Prostaff 3S is quite the opposite. The lens is coated with a novel technology using highly-reflective silver alloy mirrors for the coating to increase the brightness and color contrast.

In terms of being waterproof, Prostaff 3S can survive in as deep as one meter for up to ten minutes, which is a record for roof-prism binoculars.

Wingspan Optics Thunderbird 8×42 Ultra HD

Viewing fast-moving animals has never been easier. Wingspan optics has an exceptional prism quality that accentuates the colors and textures of anything you gaze at, even in low light.

Its fog proofing lens helps you see through the mist, a common occurrence in early morning safaris. Experts recommend this model, particularly for bird-watching.

Adorrgon Travel Binoculars

Of all the binocular brands, Adorrgon perhaps designs the smallest and feather-like. For a binocular that weighs only 1.1 pounds, Adorrgon is surprisingly effective. Its 12×42 magnification provides flawless distant-viewing and image quality compared to many of its rivals. Combine this with affordable prices, and you have one of the top-rated safari best binoculars on Amazon.

Avantek Binoculars 10×50

Despite its fancy look, Avantek offers the best value for money. Its lens diameter of 50 mm and a FOV of 367 feet per 1000 yards – despite making it slightly bulkier than its opponents – allows smooth wildlife viewing even in utter darkness. Finally, the 16 mm long eye relief and the ergonomic design complete the perfect package.

Leupold Bx-1 McKenzie 12×50

As you can infer from the title, Leupold Bx-1 offers an excellent close-up of distant animals seen like dots on the horizon, while the lens size overcomes issues of low light entirely. Edge-to-edge clarity in wide lenses is difficult to achieve. Yet, Leupold tackles this by implementing 10 minutes of extra glassing through Twilight Light Management System.

Above all, Leupold is one of the few brands that includes a portable field-ready case at an affordable price.

Hawke Frontier HD X 10×42

Both the inner and outer materials of binoculars have difficulty enduring extreme high and low temperatures. Hawke Frontier HD X , differently from many other binoculars, has a magnesium alloy body under the rubber surface. This helps the binocular survive between an unbelievably wide range of 55 to -15 degrees Celcius.

The hydrophobic coating around the lenses prevents water drops from adhering to the surface, so any water splash just slides away without a trace. Despite its slightly higher price, Frontier HD X is definitely worth buying due to its incredible durability, not to mention the lifetime warranty provided.

Kowa YF30-8 – the Lightest of the Best Binoculars for Safari

Kowa is a more recent brand that quickly earned a reputation with its YF30 series. Their best card is the massive field of view. With 140 m at 1000m, adjusting the binocular won’t even be necessary. Despite the Porro-prism, the exterior design is surprisingly modern, boasting a soft contour on the outside. Weighing 470 grams, Kowa YF30-8 is one of the lightest binoculars with the right old Porro prisms, and one of the few that is 100% waterproof and dirt-proof, making it the best binocular for a safari vacation.

Criteria for the Best Binoculars for Safari

In this buying guide, we are summarizing the criteria you need to consider when purchasing a binocular.

Magnification

One of the two most crucial features of a binocular is the magnification. If you look at the specifications of binoculars, you will instantly see a pair of numbers as in an x b. The first number “a” indicates the magnification coefficient, which is used to describe how much the binocular can magnify the object.

The biggest misconception about magnification is that the higher the number is, the better. However, a number higher than 12, while it indeed zooms in further, can compromise on the brightness and focus, not to mention they would require a tripod to hold still. The ideal number for a portable best safari binocular is 10.

Objective Lens Size

The second number in the pair mentioned above is the objective lens diameter. An objective lens is found on the tip of the binocular directed towards the object. For this criteria, you want your binocular to have a broader actual surface to gather as much light as possible. It would make a massive difference in your sight in darker conditions.

The tricky problem is that the binocular size increases dramatically with the objective lens. For safari purposes, a range of 30-45 mm should suffice. You can stick to 32 mm for daytime tours, but try to find one with 42 mm if you are shooting for a nocturnal wildlife expedition.

A binocular will contain one of the two prism types – a roof prism or a Porro prism.

The two types of binoculars differ in the way the prisms are lined up with the eyepiece. While the lens and the prism are in line with the eyepiece in a roof prism, a Porro prism will have a zigzaggy alignment.  Choosing either one of the prisms is tricky if you are indecisive, so let’s break down the pros and cons.

A Porro prism has the traditional design that you come across in movies. They refract the light much less than a compact roof prism, generating brighter and clearer images with higher depth. However, they are much broader and bulkier than roof prisms, which also reduces their durability.

A roof prism can obtain the same viewing quality as a Porro prism, but this comes with a cost. Because of the complex manufacturing process to achieve precision, they are more expensive than the Porro prisms. Nevertheless, they have several advantages over them, such as more extended durability, better waterproof quality, stronger magnification, and lighter weight.

Overall, they both provide a decent experience with slight differences, so you can make the purchase depending on your budget and the space in your luggage.

Field Of View (FOV)

The field of view indicates the width of the picture a binocular can span. You can see a lot more with a higher FOV. Although a binocular with small FOV can have decent image quality and magnification, you would still have to move it around to catch an animal sight, and make adjustments. 

The rule of thumb is to look for a FOV with at least 315 feet at 1000 yards.

Exit Pupils

Exit pupil size is the ratio of the lens size divided by the magnification. Some binoculars can include this information in their specification, so it is essential to know its function. Similar to the lens size, a large exit pupil size allows your binocular to collect more light, allowing you to catch a clearer sight in the dark. 

For early morning and evening safaris, go for an exit pupil size of at least 5 mm.

Others 

Besides the crucial specifications, here are other factors you should consider when deciding on the best binoculars for safari.

• Make sure that it is lightweight and small enough to stuff in your bag. On a side note, some safari vehicles will have weight limitations, so double-check that your binocular does not exceed the allowed weight limit.
• As we have emphasized earlier, waterproofing is critical as your safari vehicle crosses rivers. After all, you don’t want muddy water droplets clogging your view.
• Find out if the binocular of your choice is shockproof and resistant to constantly bouncing around.
• A long eye relief allows you to hold the binocular further away from your eyes, which will come in handy when you are wearing sunglasses.

Best Binoculars for Safari – FAQs

On some safari tours, you might get really lucky and find hundreds of animals lurking near the main roads. However, this is never guaranteed, and the large mammals are unpredictable in terms of where they want to hang out. With a binocular, not only will you maximize your chance, but you will also catch a glimpse of the animals hiding deep in the thick bushes

A magnification of 12 is the best that can be incorporated into lightweight binoculars. You can also use 16 without a tripod, but be warned that it will be bulky.

You can spot things as far away as 2 km.

A safari binocular usually costs between 100 and 500 USD. There are also high-end binoculars with an excellent combination of features, costing up to 3000 USD. The most expensive brands are Zeiss, Swarovski, and Nikon.

You might think that a safari binocular is a futile item for a safari trip, but that is because you are not aware of the wildlife potential you can’t see with the naked eye. The animals coming close to the vehicle are often the tip of the iceberg, and you want to dive to the bottom of that iceberg as an avid traveler. From that point of view, we would even argue that a binocular is more useful than a safari camera.

If you’re looking to buy a safari camera, consider reading our post on the best camera for safari . Also, browse through the various destinations where you can put these tech gears to good use:

• Botswana national parks
• Tarangire national park
• Islands of Mozambique
• Benguerra island
• Best countries to visit in Africa
• And lastly, tourist attractions in Africa .

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11 Best Binoculars for Safari in Africa – Buying Guide 2024

Best travel binoculars for safari for all budgets.

Embarking on a safari is a thrilling adventure, a journey into the heart of the wild where every turn might reveal a spectacle of nature’s grandeur.

If you’re here, it’s likely you’re on the brink of this exciting exploration, searching for the perfect companion to elevate your safari experience: binoculars.

As an avid safari-goer myself, I understand the pivotal role binoculars play in unlocking the secrets of the savannah. Having navigated the landscapes of over 20 African safaris, I’ve come to realize that while the wilderness is boundless, our vision is not. That’s where the frustration begins for many – those moments when distant wonders remain just out of reach, obscured by the vastness of the terrain. I get it; the struggle is real.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll not only delve into the technicalities of magnification and lens diameter but also explore the personal stories behind each recommendation. You see, it’s not just about binoculars; it’s about crafting an immersive safari experience. The frustration of missing a distant pride of lions or the awe of spotting elusive cheetah cubs – these are the moments that inspired me to seek the best, and now, I’m sharing my insights with you.

So, whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a first-time safari adventurer, join me on this exploration of the best binoculars for your safari.

Let’s transform those potential pain points – the struggle to choose, the fear of missing out, the uncertainty of what those numbers mean – into a journey of clarity, excitement, and unforgettable moments. This isn’t just a guide; it’s your ticket to a closer, clearer view of the wonders that await. Welcome to the world of safari binoculars – your key to unlocking the wild.

What are the best binoculars for Safari?

Binoculars for Safari :  You’ve probably asked yourself, “Should I bring binoculars on a safari?” – a question that echoed in my mind before my first safari. The answer? A resounding YES! But, selecting the right pair isn’t a walk in the park.

The market teems with options, each claiming to be the key to unlocking the beauty of the wild. I’ve been there, grappling with the overwhelming array of choices and contemplating the enigmatic numbers like 8×42. Now, after years of refining my selection, I’m here to guide you through the intricate world of safari binoculars.

I consider bringing binoculars on safari 100% an essential item to bring on safari. This is the pair of binoculars I own and take on safari with me when I travel.

Choosing the best binoculars for safari can be challenging.  There are so many different models out there and a range of prices.  Where do you even start? And what do the numbers (8×42) mean?

Don’t worry. This safari binocular buying guide has all the answers. Not only does it include binoculars for your safari reviews, but I have also included all the frequently asked questions about binoculars at the bottom as well.

I have researched all the best binoculars in this guide and created a comparison chart to make your safari the best adventure for you.

I have a confession to make – when I first went on safari, I thought I would see all of the animals just fine without binoculars. What happened instead is that I ended up using my guide’s binoculars the whole time.

I wouldn’t have been able to see these two cheetahs unless I had binoculars.  I’m so thankful for that as it was a beautiful moment to see.

So before my next safari, I researched the best binoculars for a safari to make sure I was ready to bird watch and spot the elusive leopard.

There are so many amazing animals to see on safari but they are not just sitting there waiting for you. You will see cheetahs off in the distance on an ant hill and to see them you will need to have a pair of binoculars.

I’ve been on over 20 safaris in Africa and visited 35 of the 54 countries on the continent and the first thing I always pack is my binoculars for a safari.

*Disclaimer: There may be some affiliate links on this page, which means when you click I get a small percentage of the purchase at no extra cost to you. This allows me to keep sharing great travel tips, so feel free to click away!

Best Binoculars for Safari Comparison Chart

I’ve prepared the following comparison chart of the best binoculars I have researched and/or used to help you find the best one.

Another important factor is magnification. I want to be able to see the animals clearly. The best binoculars for safari need to have a combination of these two factors.  I have a whole FAQ at the end of this article that covers all of the features to look for in safari binoculars.

Wondering what are the best binoculars for safari?  I’ve prepared the following comparison chart of the best binoculars I have researched and/or used to help you find the best one.  Here are some of the recommended binoculars for safari.

Comparison Chart

The Winner and Best Binoculars for Safari

Nikon 8252 aculon binoculars – the best binoculars for the money.

• Additional Information: The Nikon 8252 Aculon binoculars stand out with their 10-22×50 zoom, providing versatile magnification for detailed wildlife observation. The BaK4 Porro prism system and Eco-Glass ensure high-quality images in various lighting conditions.
• Personal Touch: On my last safari, these binoculars allowed me to zoom in on a distant lioness with incredible clarity, capturing a moment that would have been missed with regular binoculars.

Nikon 8252 Aculon Binoculars – with over 860 positive reviews these are the best travel binoculars for you.

One reviewer even said that they had bought several pairs of binoculars over the years and that they didn’t have the clarity that they had expected until they bought these.

These binoculars are crystal clear even when you zoom all the way in! And these binoculars are the perfect price point as well.  You will see why they are the best binoculars for a safari.

Quality and Affordability “The ACULON A211 10-22×50 zoom binoculars feature adjustable 10-22-power multicoated lenses and 50mm objectives fabricated with Nikon’s exclusive lead and arsenic free Eco-Glass. The BaK4 Porro prism systems within all ACULON A211 binoculars deliver a high quality image under a multitude of lighting conditions, making these binoculars effective from dawn till dusk. All together the ACULON A211 10-22×50 zoom binoculars are a quality, cost effective choice.”

What does 22×50 mean?  22×50 binoculars have 22x magnification and the objective lenses are 50mm in diameter. The wider the objective lens, the more light the binoculars will take in making the image brighter.

I chose the Nikon 8252 because they are very ergonomic and comfortable to use and come with a neck strap as well.  Everything is so crystal clear through these binoculars and they are the best safari binoculars.  Also the best travel binoculars for safari.

Click here to see more information and the latest prices.

Celestron 71332 Nature Waterproof Binocular – best lightweight binoculars for travel

Celestron is one of the cheaper binoculars on this list these binoculars have a huge magnification and lens diameter yet only 1.75 pounds and they are waterproof.

These binoculars are best for beginner to intermediate users because of their large magnification and small lens.  They do need to be held steady though when using them.

These binoculars would work best on a safari where you will also have a lot of bird life.  They are large binoculars and best used with a tripod.  Good if you are doing a walking safari or you are staying at a lodge that has a viewing platform for the wildlife.

• Additional Information: The Celestron binoculars are lightweight yet powerful, boasting a large magnification and a waterproof design. Ideal for bird watching on safari, these binoculars are recommended for their portability and decent field of view.
• Personal Touch: During a walking safari in Zambia, these binoculars were a lifesaver, providing a clear view of vibrant birdlife in the treetops without compromising on weight.

Wingspan Optics Wingcatcher – lightweight binoculars for safari

The Wingspan binoculars are great binoculars that let you see farther and brighter with more clarity and color.  They are cheap binoculars for a safari that are good travel binoculars.

They have an extra wide field of view which makes it easier to spot animals in the grass and cover large areas to see if anything is out there such as lions in the tall grass.

With these lenses, you can experience unbeatable resolution and contrast.  This is the ideal magnification to capture crystal clear images.

The Wingspan binoculars come with neck strap, carrying case, lens protectors and cleaning cloths.

• Additional Information: The Wingspan binoculars excel in offering an extra-wide field of view, perfect for spotting wildlife in large areas. Their superior resolution and color clarity make them an excellent choice for observing animals in the grasslands.
• Personal Touch: In Namibia, these binoculars revealed a hidden world in the grass, allowing me to spot a group of cheetah cubs playing in the distance – an unforgettable sight made possible by the wide field of view.

Click here to see more information and the latest prices .

Sky Genius Powerful Binoculars – bush binoculars

Sky Genius binoculars are compact and perfect for your next adventure.  They also have a lifetime warranty, so if you are worried about how your binoculars will perform on safari you have extra insurance for them.

Sky Genius binoculars are waterproof and fog proof which is important for your sunrise safaris and the cold air outside and the warmth of your body up again the eye piece.  You do not want the binoculars to fog up just when you are going to use them.

They are made from durable materials with water resistance function fits for most outdoor scenes.

• Additional Information: The Sky Genius binoculars offer a compact design with a lifetime warranty, making them an ideal choice for adventurous safaris. Waterproof and fog-proof, they ensure clear views even during early morning safaris when temperature variations might cause fogging.
• Personal Touch: On a misty dawn safari in South Africa, these binoculars lived up to their name, providing a crystal-clear view of distant elephants emerging from the morning haze.

Vortex Optics Diamond Binoculars – safari binoculars

The Vortex Optics Diamond Binoculars are efficient and high-performing optical binoculars with enhanced, multi-coated lenses (including Argon gas for anti fog), that provide stunning views and impressive low-light performance. One of the top recommended binoculars for safari for the price.

They have an ultra-wide, field of view, which you can use to effortlessly cover ground and acquire subjects with ease. They also have a sleek, short hinge design with rubber armor and thumb indents that leave more room for your hands creating an easier, secure, non-slip grip.

These binoculars are for those who are serious about seeing wildlife at a distance and can be used with a tripod to ensure a steady hand.  They come with a neck strap and case to protect your binoculars.

• Additional Information: The Vortex Optics Diamond binoculars are high-performing optics with enhanced, multi-coated lenses and Argon gas for anti-fog capabilities. With an ultra-wide field of view, they excel in covering ground effortlessly, making them perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Personal Touch: During a sunset safari in Botswana, these binoculars proved invaluable in capturing the breathtaking hues of the savannah and spotting elusive nocturnal creatures with exceptional clarity.

Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars – travel binoculars for safari

These are inexpensive binoculars , which are great for watching wildlife both in the national parks or open areas. The cheap binoculars for safari come with a pouch lens protector covers and a cell phone mount.

The mount helps you capture images that you would need an expensive DSLR camera to get a clear shot of so you can revisit the memories you have created.  The binoculars are easy to adjust and everything about this binocular is sturdy and seems well made.

• Additional Information: The Gosky binoculars are budget-friendly yet sturdy, featuring 10×42 magnification. With a cell phone mount included, they offer the opportunity to capture memorable safari moments, even on a budget.
• Personal Touch: In Tanzania, these binoculars allowed me to take stunning photos of a distant lion pride, turning an ordinary observation into a cherished photographic memory.

Viper Optics Professional Binoculars – lightweight binoculars for safari

The Viper Optics Binoculars are high end binoculars with all of the top specs.  Lifetime waterproof with Argon gas for anti fogging, customized eye relief, exceptional resolution and clarity, full size, yet compact with superior ergonomics.  Perfect for low light conditions.

This is the best safari binoculars for you if you have a big budget and will use them frequently.

“The Viper HD – Premium optics and rugged construction in a tremendously compact, lightweight package – What more could you need? Well, perhaps a quality chest harness to comfortably and securely carry your investment in the field, but that’s included, too! Hunters, shooters and outdoor enthusiasts alike are sure to benefit from the high performance of the Viper HD binoculars.”

Several reviewers have said these binoculars are even better than the Swarovski’s binoculars .

• Additional Information: The Viper Optics binoculars boast premium features, including lifetime waterproofing, Argon gas for anti-fogging, and exceptional resolution. Their compact design with superior ergonomics makes them a top choice for those serious about wildlife viewing.
• Personal Touch: In the dense forests of Uganda, these binoculars proved their worth by providing unmatched clarity, allowing me to witness intricate details of rare primates with ease.

How to choose the best binoculars for safari?  What magnification do I need?

My suggestion is to set a budget and then choose the best magnification you can afford.  Remember, magnification is the first number when stated at 10×50.  Binoculars with the specification of 10×50 can be adjusted to magnify the picture 10 times that of the naked eye.

The second number used in 10×50 refers to the binocular’s objective lens diameter. The objective lenses are the lenses at the front of the binoculars, furthest away from your eyes, and closest to what you are looking at. The objective lens diameter of the example binoculars is 50mm.  The larger the number, the larger the lens and that means the more light that will enter and create a clearer picture.  You will want larger objective lenses for low light conditions.  These are not always the most compact binoculars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wondering how to buy binoculars for safari?  Check out these FAQs on which binoculars are best for safari and how to choose the best binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Do I need binoculars for a safari in South Africa? YES.  I do not think it matters if you are going on safari in Kenya, Tanzania or South Africa the answer will be the same.  Yes, you should bring a pair of binoculars to spot the animals.  Your guide will have a pair to try and look for the wildlife and once he sees them then you can use your binoculars to see the animals on safari.  Do not rely on the zoom on your camera for this.

What is the optical quality of binoculars?   Lens come in four different types of coatings.

• Coated which is the lowest quality
• Fully coated which is quite economical
• Multi coated which is higher quality and
• Fully Multi coated which allows the best light transmission and brightest images.  Choosing a binocular with a good coating will give you the best outcome.

Do I need binoculars that are coated? Yes.  All quality binoculars are fully coated, multi coated or fully multi coated.  Coatings are one of the most important factors in determining image brightness through the binoculars.  Many budget binoculars have several uncoated surfaces – this is unacceptable, since each uncoated glass surface reflects about 4-5% of incoming light. This will result is a dim, washed-out image through the binoculars.

What do the numbers mean in 8×42?   The first number is the magnification and the second number is the objective lens diameter or the diameter of the lens.  The magnification is 8 and the diameter is 42mm.

So, I want the highest magnification for my binoculars, right? Not exactly.  The higher the magnification the steadier you must hold the binoculars.  This is impossible in a moving safari vehicle and you will not be able to use a tripod inside a vehicle to keep it steady.  You could use a tripod on a walking safari or from a viewing platform at your accommodation.

Which is the best magnification for binoculars? For a safari I recommend 8×42 or 10×50 binoculars.  These will give you great magnification, large eye pieces to let in light yet they will still work well even if you do not hold them perfectly still.

That’s why I chose the Nikon 8252 Aculon Binoculars with their 10×50 view.

What are Standard Porro Prism Binoculars?   These are general purpose binoculars with lenses larger than 35mm.  An example would be binoculars that are 8×42 or 10×50.  They enable bright, high-contrast images through the binoculars to view wildlife from far away which is excellent for a safari.

I recommend buying binoculars with a roof prism instead of a porro prism as they take up less space.

Conclusion – choosing the best binoculars for safari for you

The best binoculars for you are the ones that you are going to use.  They need to be easy to use, easy to focus, and easy to see the wildlife.

With so many different options to choose from I wanted to put together a guide that was easy to use and explained the different functions of the binoculars.

I have been on over 25 different safaris in Africa and have always used binoculars.  Its one of my top tips for going on safari.  I’ve included some more tips below to make your safari experience a great one!

Plan Your Trip to Africa

• Water: The best thing I have ever bought for my travels is a   Lifestraw Water bottle to ensure safe drinking water and reduce my plastic consumption.
• Guide Book: Sometimes it’s nice just to have a real book in your hands when traveling. I recommend picking up a Lonely Planet so you can mark out where you want to go and what you want to see.
• Adaptor: I always use the universal travel adapter as I usually visit numerous countries at a time.   Remember that most of Southern Africa uses this travel adaptor,   while Eastern Africa uses the British Three Prong adaptor.

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Nicole LaBarge is a travel expert who has been traveling internationally for over 25 years and she has visited over 115 countries all while working a 9-5. She has lived in England, Scotland, Japan and New Zealand. Check out her detailed destination guides and travel product guides.

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If you were among the many who rekindled their love of the great outdoors over the last year, your equipment stash has likely been growing. And while you're probably set with the basics, whether that means camping gear or hiking supplies , we’re here to recommend investing in a sturdy pair of binoculars to get you even closer to nature. Like many travel accessories , binoculars are one of those things you wouldn’t think of as a necessity, but once you have a set, you won’t go on another road trip or alpine hike without them. After all, you only have seconds to catch a jumping antelope while on safari or a native bird flitting past—why not make the most of your adventure with a trusty pair of binoculars?

Knowing where to start can be tricky, though: Binoculars can be extremely unique in their design and features, and it pays to have the right set depending on your activity. They can be pricey, too—top-end binoculars begin around $2,000 and run up to $7,000. We've asked expert explorers to share their favorite binoculars to help you decipher which ones are worth the expense. Rather than being bogged down with specifics like size, optical strength, focus, and lens quality, let this list guide you toward the best binoculars for your next big adventure, whether you are planning your first safari or whale watching expedition or simply need an excuse to spend more time in your local park.

Nikon Trailblazer 8x25 ATB waterproof binoculars

Best binoculars for whale watching

“These are ultra lightweight, can pack easily in a backpack, and don’t give you neck strain. They are not as good as the big expensive binoculars, but for the money, weight, and having something decent to view wildlife through, they do the job. When I am on a research boat, I will use the longest range binoculars available, but I still pack my old standby compact Nikon 8x25s and end up using them as much as the bigger ones.” — Erich Hoyt , Whale and Dolphin Conservation research fellow; researcher and author of more than 20 books on sea creatures

Nikon 7294 Monarch ATB 8x42 binoculars

Best binoculars for bird watching

“I use my binoculars for bird watching. I live near Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge and that is my favorite local spot to bird watch. I bought these in 2011 and I love them. When I was looking to buy a good pair of binoculars, these were recommended to me as the best in my price range. I would agree. They do the job well, they're lightweight, and I have had many adventures with them and they've held up wonderfully.” —Dawn Brut, curator of education at the Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head Island

Zeiss Victory SF 10x42 binoculars

Best binoculars for wildlife adventures

“I use my binoculars for birding and wildlife observation. I get to travel the world showing people the many amazing birds around the planet. I have so many favorite locations, but my top few [for birding] would be Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Guatemala. If I had to pick one favorite spot, I would probably pick WildSumaco Lodge in Ecuador. Although I'm always spotting birds, I enjoy finding and pointing out other wildlife as well, especially when traveling in Africa. My favorite binoculars are the Zeiss Victory SF 10x42. These binoculars offer a great field of view, are exceptionally clear, and are very comfortable to use. Zeiss also offers a 32mm version that is lighter but still amazing in quality. These would be awesome for someone that wants a lighter weight binocular.” —Rob Ripma, owner and guide, Sabrewing Nature Tours

Swarovski 10x42 El42 binoculars

Best binoculars for the rainforest

“Swarovski are some of the most sturdy binoculars. They are also waterproof, which is absolutely necessary to work on the tropical rainforest. The 10X42 offers a good combination of magnification and light for the dark and often tangled conditions of the tropical forest. I don't have a particular favorite thing to spot, but the tropical honeycreepers such as the green honeycreeper, red-legged honeycreeper, and shining honeycreeper are some of my favorite birds. My second pair is from Zeiss; these [ 8x42 Terra binoculars ] are a lot cheaper than Swarovski and a good option for people on a budget, or who are not as committed to bird watching”. — Carlos Chacon , professional naturalist

Swarovski EL Range 8x42 binoculars

Best binoculars for nature photographers

“The quality of the optics and the workmanship are unbeatable. A special highlight for me is the integrated rangefinder, which helps you measure distances where raised high buildings block your view. Good optics are very important to me, as I sometimes spend 8 to 12 hours in the hide and spend a lot of time observing through binoculars. A sharp look is distinguished here. [Also,] if you are looking for binoculars during a highly-exerting climb, where you shake slightly at the high altitudes, choose binoculars with high magnification.” — Fabio Hain , nature photographer in Stubai Valley, Austria

Vixen SG 2.1x42 wide field binoculars

Best binoculars for stargazing

“I recommend the Vixen SG 2.1x42 binoculars. They have a wide field of view and large aperture, which means they are suitable for observing the night sky and enhance, for example, the contrast of the Milky Way. The wide field of view gives you the impression that you are diving into space. At the Pilatus Kulm in Switzerland, our location on Mount Pilatus is dark, which is ideal for stargazing, and the high altitude helps to increase the quality of the night sky for guests to witness the neighboring galaxy, Andromeda.” —Jos Kohn, founder of Astro Events and astronomer of Pilatus Kulm , Lucerne, Switzerland

Eyeskey waterproof 10x42 binoculars

Best fog-resistant binoculars

“Though I don't specifically recommend one brand over the other, I can say that I use the Eyeskey waterproof 10x42 binoculars and am very happy with them. They are fog resistant, durable, and fine to use in the rain, [which is] important in Iceland. On Hidden Iceland trips, even if they are private, there is often a lot of moving around from place to place to keep warm and get to the next perfect-picture spot, so I'd be hesitant to bring anything heavier than my Eyeskey pair on those trips.” —Ryan Connolly, co-owner, guide, and environmental manager of Hidden Iceland

Steiner Predator 8x42 binoculars

Best binoculars for all weather conditions

“My favorite pair of binoculars is the Steiner Predator 8x42. They are waterproof and coated with rubber, which helps them withstand harsh conditions. They are also lightweight, which means they are easy to carry throughout your safari, and very durable. They are great for focusing on wildlife at long range with excellent light transmission, allowing for distinction of colors, which is useful for birding. The central wheel requires minimal rotation for quick sharpness of both animals and birds. I use them to spot wildlife in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, especially when tracking and looking for elusive cats like leopards, lions, cheetahs, servals, and caracals in the open plains and along the riverine forest.” —Robert Carlos Kiprotich, safari guide at Angama Mara safari lodge in Maasai Mara, Kenya

Zeiss Terra ED 8x42 binoculars

Best binoculars for safari

“Sharing binoculars with anyone is a no-no at the moment with the coronavirus, so it is best to have your own pair when on safari or out birding. The Zeiss binoculars are the best for safari—lightweight with incredible range and stability. They are the perfect size and weight so you can carry them with you easily, whether that is in a vehicle or on foot or even on a horse. For their size, the magnification is brilliant, the image is always steady, and the detail is fantastic. You don’t miss a thing and pick up on so much more than the smaller binoculars, and these are not chunky at all. I would recommend them for watching all wildlife, as well as birds. —Alice Gully, co-owner of Aardvark Safaris

10 Best Binoculars for Safari 2023

What would a trip be without having a perfect and beautiful view of all the sites you wish to visit? What is the point of going on maybe a tour without having a good look at everything worth looking at? The fun is not even just looking at the sites or animals in sight, but clearly seeing what you are looking at. I personally have gone on trips where I looked at some interesting locations but I didn’t capture all the beauty there was to capture even if it was right in front of me because I didn’t have a binocular for safari to view them with and these were not locations you could get so close to. Binoculars for safari are truly a must have as they can be used for purposes outside safari too.

Going for a safari without binoculars is like going to the dentist without your teeth, simply impossible. A safari is a type of journey you take as a tourist in Africa, just driving in the wild to observe the true beauty of nature by viewing the wildlife, hiking, camping and just generally having an amazing sightseeing experience. Imagine going on this type of adventure without a binocular? What is now the point of going if you wouldn’t go with binoculars to savor every single moment of the trip and adventure? Because in the safari, you would encounter a lot of wild animals and some of these experiences are a once in a life time thing dependent on season and luck, and most of these animals, you cannot get too close to. Hence, one has to have a perfect pair of binoculars for this amazing adventure.

Not to fear, I am here today to guide you on the perfect binoculars you could use for your exotic safari adventures. Binoculars that are almost identical to a good pair of eyes.

How to Choose the Best Binocular for Safari

Now, one does not just go to a shop randomly to pick just any pair of binoculars, you have to know what function it serves, what you need it for and a lot of other things. I will be guiding you on things you should look out for when you want to buy binoculars for safari;

1. Eye Relief

First, you want a pair of binoculars that is comfortable against your eyes. You want binoculars that are the ideal distance between your eye and the binocular’s eyepiece. If you get one that’s too close to you or too far away, your user experience will not be very pleasant.

Also, if you wear glasses, you should get binoculars with a 15mm relief at least (or if you will be wearing sunglass for the most part of the trip.)

2. Lens of the Binoculars

To get the best views and to fully optimize your image quality, it is advised to go for fully multi-coated lenses. They are the best kind of lenses and a good lens is needed for shady parts. Binoculars from experience with lenses, 32mm to 42mm are the best because they work for every time of the day perfectly and they are not very bulky.

3. Magnification

High magnification, although very adequate and enjoyable most times are not adequate for safari adventures. Magnification is basically how large you see the image in the lens compared to how it is in real life.

High magnification is not so good for safari trips because most times, the higher the magnification, the lesser the stability and focus of the object. Magnifications greater than 10x often times lead to the production of unstable images.

4. Cost of the Binocular

This obviously is a real cause for concern. As is expected, most times more money usually means better quality. But if you are on a tight budget, you can get an okay binocular for like $50, and more manufacturers are making lovely binoculars for even less these days. If you have a flexible budget, you can get very good binoculars for $300 to $350, these binoculars have all the trimmings.

5. Weight of the Binoculars

The weight and size of the binoculars play an important role in the selection process. Going for a small and light binocular seems like a great idea because it will be easy to manipulate, carry around and it will not consume a lot of space but the image quality and stability wouldn’t be as good as the larger ones.

Medium sized binoculars are the best because they are not so heavy and the image quality is still amazing.

6. Resistance to Water and Shock

This is a very important feature in the selection process.

In safari, you don’t know what to expect and you will be in the open a lot. It could just randomly start to rain and most safari vehicles are open topped. So, the weather can suddenly go from dusty to humid to rainy, it helps to be prepared by having a pair of binoculars that will not be shocked by all these things.

Your binocular should be shock resistant because the safari trips usually include very rough, bouncy rides in big vehicles. This might cause your binoculars to drop or hit itself against surfaces, it is nice to have a pair of binoculars that can take all that and more.

It helps to research brands so that you will know what each brand really specializes on. Brands like Carl Zeiss, Nikon, Canon, Steiner are lovely brands that make solid binoculars.

8. The Field of View

The greater the lenses width, the greater the field of view. The field of view is basically the expanse of image you see via your binoculars. A wide field of view is nice because you will see more sights clearer and easily without having to turn or keep adjusting the binoculars.

Top 10 Best Binoculars for Safari

These are the best binoculars for safari you can ever wish for, they are certain to make your journey very worthwhile.

1. Vortex Optics Diamondback Roof Prism Binoculars 10×42

This is a perfect and very highly recommended safari binocular. It provides a 10x magnification through 42mm lenses. These binoculars also have phase corrected prisms and they are water and fog proofed. The neck strap is comfortable and is guaranteed to not bite into the skin, it is a very enjoyable binocular with a field of view of 345 feet and a thousand yards. This binocular is pretty amazing.

Comfortable neck strap

It has a nice field of view

Adjustable eye reliefs

It is water and fog resistant

It’s quite heavy

It is not shock resistant

2. Hontry 10×25 Compact Binoculars

This binocular is really amazing because kids can use it too. It boasts of a 10x magnification and 25mm lens diameter. It is extremely stable and does not alter the color of the real image one bit.

Its optics are fully multi-coated and it has an astonishing field of view of 362ft at a thousand yards. It is foldable and compact so, it is easy to carry around. It is shock resistant and highly multipurpose too.

One issue with this binocular is that it’s diameter is not very wide and it is not water resistant.

Pros                                                                                        

It is very clear

The glass surfaces have multiple coatings

Super light weight

It has an adjustable eye relief

It is shock resistant

It’s too small

Not water resistant

Small lens diameter

3. Bushnell Powerview Compact Folding Roof Prism Binocular

This binocular is pretty awesome because it offers a variety of magnifications so, you just select the product you need, exactly the same quality.

This binocular has fully coated optics, it is shock resistant and it has a focus system.

It also has eyecups you can fold so that you can protect your screen when its not in use. But this binocular is not water or fog resistant.

Fully coated optics offering great views

Shock resistant

It has its own carrying case

It has a neck strap

The thin straps may bite into one’s neck

It is not water resistant

They are not suitable for weak lightings

4. Vortex Optics Diamondback Roof Prism Binoculars 8×32

This amazing binocular has 8x magnification and 32mm objective lenses and it is very durable.

The lenses are fully multi-coated and has an impressive field of view of 426ft, 8.1 degrees. It has an adjustable eye relief and it is pretty easy to navigate. But the objective lens diameter of this binocular is pretty low.

Adjustable neck strap

Amazing field of view

Light weight

It is not resistant to shock

The lens diameter is quite low

5. Adasion 12×42 Binoculars with New Smartphone Photograph Adapter

This binocular is superb because it comes with a phone adapter that aids photography. It has 12x magnification and an objective lens of 42mm in diameter, talk about major stability.

It has a field of view of 367ft and a thousand yards and it is very multipurpose. This binocular would be perfect if it weren’t so heavy and if it were resistant to shock.

Large magnification

Large lens diameter

Water and fog resistant

It has a phone adapter

Quite large

6. Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Low Light Night Vision

This binocular is pretty nice because it has a large 12x magnification and a 25mm objective. It also has a comfortable adjustable eye relief and the lenses are fully multi-coated and have BAK4 prism for higher image quality.

It has a nice field of view pf 273ft to a thousand yards and it is very portable on top being waterproof albeit not being shock resistant.

Outstanding image quality

Great magnification

Excellent focus

Uses Porro prisms

Nice weight

Short lens diameter

Short field of view

7. Adorrgon 12×42 Powerful Binoculars with Clear Weak Light Vision

This astonishing multipurpose binocular has a 12x magnification with a 42mm objective lens diameter. It has an impressive field of view 367ft at a thousand yards, it also has fully multi-coated lenses and BAK4 Prism. It boasts of clear vision in weak light and it is shock resistance but not water resistant.

Lovely image quality

Nice lens diameter

Nice field of view

Carrying case

It is pretty weighty

8. Thompson Center Porro Prism Binoculars

The first thing to note about this binocular is that it has weak light vision. It also has an unbelievable 12x magnification with 50mm objective lenses in diameter, it has fully multi-coated lenses and BAK7 standard porro prism. It is shock resistant and it has neck straps, lens covers for all the lenses and comes with its own carry bag. This binocular is actually pretty heavy and it is not water resistant.

It has very good optics

Amazing magnification

It is easy use

It is quite heavy

9. Celestron – Outland X 10×42 Binoculars

This binocular has an impressive 10x magnification with a 42mm in diameter objective lenses. These lenses are fully multicoated and has BAK4 prisms.

It is water proof and it has adjustable eye reliefs. It also comes with a smartphone adapter.

The major issue with this binocular is that the eye relief is a tad too sensitive.

Water resistant

It has protective rubber covering

Phone adapter included

Not so great focus

10. PHELRENA Compact HD Professional Binoculars

This high definition binocular has a magnification of 20x with an incredible 50mm diameter of objective lenses. It has fully multi-coated lenses and a BAK4 prism. It is very easy to focus and it is water and shock resistant, it also comes with its own carrying bag. But this binocular is not as sharp or bright as the optics suggest.

It is lightweight

It is water and shock resistant

Neck strap included

Carrying case included

Poor image quality

Uncomfortable eye reliefs

Very poor image quality at  night

Here are some of the most frequently asked question when it comes to looking for the best binocular for safari.

Should I take binoculars on safari?

Yes, yes you should take binoculars on safaris to get a clearer view of the animals , especially the ones that may be hiding in the trees and the ones that are camouflaged with their surroundings.

What are the best binoculars for safari?

Well, there are a lot of great binoculars around. We have the Nikon, Bushnell, Alderron, Occer, Celestron and so many others.

What strength binoculars do I need?

Well, it depends on the purpose of your need. But remember, the higher the magnification, the more the stability. At the same time, you want to consider the size.

How do you pick a good pair of binoculars?

There are so many factors to consider when picking binoculars like the cost, the magnification, the lenses, the field of view, the weight, the size and of course, the purpose of the binocular in the first place.

Are 10 x 42 binoculars better than 8x 42?

All things being equal, yes. They are better because they have a greater magnification and image quality and clarity will be so much richer and more enjoyable to the sight.

10 Best Low Light Camera – Suitable For Photography & Leisure

I know this little guide has been of great help to you in your journey to find the best binoculars for your safari trips. Following this guide will help you get the best binocular you can get regardless of how tight your budget is. A safari would be incomplete without binoculars and hey, you can use it for other things too even if you are not taking a trip.

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Peter J. Moran

Peter J. Moran is a travel writer from New York who loves a good road trip! He loves the freedom of a paper map and an open road.

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• Binoculars & Scopes

6 Best Binoculars For Safari of 2024

To see breathtaking landscapes and observe nature more accurately, packing the best binocular for safari is the first thing on your checklist.

We’ve prepared the following list of 6 top-rated models, picked according to 6 common categories in case somebody who needs to buy a new one. Read on!

Here are the best binoculars for safari (Sep 2024 Update):

Best overall: bushnell binocular, top rated: adorrgon binocular, most compact: occer binocular, best for photo-enthusiasts: gosky binocular, best for beginners: celestron 71332, best for eyeglass wearers: nikon 7576 monarch 5.

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Give better grip than the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD's

Can be focused sharply with less color aberration

Well-collimated, durable, and fog-proof while keeping the price low

A bit heavy compared to its size

The rubber eyepiece collars are hard

Roofs are more durable than Porros, which is the reason I pick this Bushnell binocular. It has a rugged, well-constructed body with high magnification, BaK-4 prisms, fog- and waterproof features.

But what we impress the most is its good collimation, especially under direct sunlight, they can be quickly focused, edge to edge image quality with less color aberration. We appreciate the added strap, case, and 4 rubber end caps to secure the binocular’s lens better.

Compared to the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD's, this comes in a softer and thicker grip to give an edge on friendliness.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly safari binocular, the Bushnell with many characteristics of high-end binoculars while priced under $80 will be your best bet.

Cheaper to buy

Lightweight

12x magnification to see animals from a farther distance

Take more time to focus then Bushnell H2O

Hard to spot animals hidden in bushy areas

If you usually walk for miles in wildlife areas, getting a lightweight binocular will give a big relief for your neck and this Adorrgon is just 1.2 pounds in weight to be a good option to try.

Aside from its decent lightness, this model is priced about half the Bushnell H2O while there are still full accessories (like strap, case, wiping cloth, and lens cover). Importantly, it delivers similar image quality – bright and clear optics to help you capture animals from distance in detail.

However, due to the 12x magnification, it’s a bit unstable when you zoom it more. Narrow field of view might be a bit struggling to spot animals hiding in bushy areas.

At low price range, the Adorrgon with emphasis on lightness and quality image gives a great value for the money.

Super lightweight – 0.65 pounds – with a compact design

Shockproof features for steadier image

Both lenses are adjustable for clearer vision

No strap included

For under $35, the Occer Binocular is an exceptional bargain that you could make with shockproof and life waterproof features, smooth center, and large eyepiece.

Within what we have expected, it highlights good image sharpness and color acuity. Besides, the design is rather compact and lightweight to hold – only 0.65 pounds that even a customer on Amazon thought it was a “children’s toy”.

It’s easy to hold by one hand while the other can be used for adjusting the lens sight for better vision. No tint on the lens, by the way.

Weighing just 0.65 pounds, your neck will thank you if you choose the Occer Binocular.

Smartphone adapter to let the user view everything on their smartphone screen

50% to 75% less expensive than other binoculars with same-same specs

Adjustable eye-cups for eyeglasses wearer

Large 326 ft/1000 yds field of view

Not waterproof

1” to 1.5” longer than other counterparts

The Gosky Binocular looks quite similar to Nikon 10x42 in the physical aspect while priced about 1/3. It’s not really lightweight compared to the Occer or Adorrgon above but rather compact that you can easily handle.

The biggest selling point of this binocular is the Gosky Newest Smartphone Mount, which you can view every footage via your mobile phone screen. We appreciate this user-friendly feature, especially if you’re a photo-enthusiasts.

A bonus is that it can be compatible with a wide range of smartphones, from Apple’s, Samsung’s to Sony’s and LG’s.

With quick focusing, sharp image quality, and practical smartphone adapter, the Gosky binoculars will make a good gift for a photo-enthusiast.

The lowest price at 8x magnification binoculars

Fully multi-coated for decently brighter and clearer image quality

Large field of view

A bit heavier and larger than other binocular at the same price

The diopter adjustment ring is tight to adjust

At 8x magnification, the Celestron Nature DX highlights a larger field of view so that beginners can easily track birds, deer, or other animals hiding in large bushy areas.

It feels sturdy, reasonably heavy and easy to adjust once calibrating. There is also a strap, case, and lens cover. Plus, easy to grip surfaces and waterproof design.

The binocular particularly comes with twist-up eyecups, which partly makes it the Top Pick under $200 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

For those novices who want to step up from crappy $15 binoculars for expanded nature viewing ability, the Celestron 71322 is a great investment.

Superior clarity

Longer eye relief to be friendly for people wearing glasses

Packed with user friendly features

A bit time-taking to understand how to use it

For eyeglasses wearers, the Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 will be a life-saver for you. It highlights turn and slide rubber eyecups with extra-long eye relief to ensure your comfort when watching it with your glasses.

Regardless, we found a huge difference in the lens quality between Monarch 3 and Monarch 5, which is the reason we picked this.

Superior clarity is the most well-worth feature – quite similar to the Bushnell Legend 8x42 but way lighter and more compact.

It also gives a crisper focus.

With longer eye relief and excellent clarity, the Nikon 7576 MONARCH 5 provides the most “bang-for-buck” piece of optics that any eyeglasses wearer desires to have.

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How To Choose The Best Binocular For Safari?

The two most common times of a day for people to head out in safari are dusk and early morning. In such cases, the light conditions are usually low so you should choose bigger lenses to receive the moderately bright image.

The recommended range of lens size is 32mm to 42mm.

Don’t go any bigger because your binoculars will be very bulky and heavy, which means they are much more difficult to carry or observe animals stably.

Magnification

When opting for a binocular for safari, you shouldn’t choose the one with high magnification for two reasons:

Safari binocular will be used for spotting hidden animals around giant bushy areas, meaning you need an expanded field of view. Not to say that the more zoom you make, the less stable of your image while there’s no place (and even no chance) in safari for you to set up a tripod.

Instead, let choose a binocular featuring 10x or 8x.

Additional Features

Using binoculars on safari means they will be exposed under high temperatures and through dust, humidity, rough roads, and frequent movements. Therefore, it needs to be under higher protection.

Shockproof and waterproof features, in this case, are very essential to have in your binocular.

Which Brands Make The Best Binocular For Safari?

With over 65 years in the industry, Bushnell binoculars are unbeatable in terms of light transmission, clarity, and ruggedness. There is a wide range of models, types and even stores around the world that you can come and try directly.

Gosky is a US-registered brand specialized in the field of optics that highlights not only high-quality binoculars but also providing cost efficiency. Fans of Gosky also comment on their caring customer services.

In the optics industry, Celestron is like a senior with decades of experience. Their biggest inspiration is Tom Johnson and what makes their binoculars outstanding is leading revolutionary technologies.

A bit differing from other brands, Nikon Inc. is actually a company involved in a wide spectrum of business relating to imaging products. But that doesn’t make their binocular lines inferior. With over 100 years of establishing, Nikon never disappoints its customers no matter what.

Should you wear glasses with binoculars?

If your eyes are myopic or farsightedness, choose binoculars with longer eye optic will let you use them more comfortable while wearing glasses.

Do I need binoculars that are coated?

If you want to improve light transmission and reduce reflective loss while using binoculars, choose a pair with a thin chemical coating.

This addition is considered to add up 5% the light passing through it while multi-coating can level up to 10%.

Are 10x42 binoculars better than 8x42?

The first number indicates the binocular’s power or magnification, which means 10x42 will deliver higher magnification than the 8x42 binoculars. However, depending on the specific situations to determine whether it delivers better than the 8x42 or not.

For example, for safari, the 8x42 will be a bit superior to the 10x42 because of its wider field of view, helping users to spot animals quicker.

Which is better roof prism or Porro prism?

The best binocular for safari should satisfy three things based on your personal determination – lightweight to hold, easy to focus, and clear to see the wildlife. With the additional buying guide and FAQs section, we hope to provide more helpful pieces of information to you.

Thanks for reading!

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• 13 Best Binoculars For Safari
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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 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

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.

• Very affordable
• High magnification
• Work well in low-light conditions
• Shock-resistant
• Anti-slip grip
• No image stabilization feature

Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars

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.

They’re a solid device with high-quality images that comes in a small package.

• Steiner High-Contrast coatings
• Rubber-armored body
• Ergonomic eyecups
• Come with a padded travel case
• No lens covers

Steiner Optics Predator Series Binoculars

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.

One of the best mid-range binoculars with many innovative features you can get on the market right now.

• Work well in the dark
• Color Adjusted Transmission system
• Fast Close-Focus focusing wheel
• ClicLoc system
• Waterproof and fog-proof
• Heavier than some of the best binoculars for safari

Nikon 16000 PROSTAFF 7S 8×30 Inches Compact Binoculars

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.

They perform just as well, if not, better than other best binoculars for safari that cost more than 200USD.

• Lightweight and easy to hold
• Fully multi-coated lenses
• Adjustable eyecups
• Phase correction-coated roof prism
• Might be too simple for professionals

Carson 3D Series High Definition Waterproof Binoculars

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.

They boast all the essential features you’ll ever need for a safari.

• Rubberized armor body
• Lightweight design
• Perform well in low-light situations
• BaK-4 roof prism system
• ED glass optics
• Feel a bit plasticky

Leupold BX-1 McKenzie Binoculars

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.

They’re the type of binoculars that can work well basically anywhere and for various activities.

• Ergonomic and lightweight design
• Large exit pupil
• Take a bit longer to focus

Vortex Optics Viper HD Roof Prism Binoculars

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.

Despite being more expensive, they come with plenty of top-notch features that help justify their price tag.

• Rubber-armored chassis with thumb indents
• XR anti-reflective lens
• Perform well in low-light conditions
• Twist-up eyecups for customized eye relief
• Compact design
• If you do the best binoculars for safari comparison, they’re more expensive

Zeiss Terra ED Binoculars

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.

The best choice for those looking for lightweight binoculars for safari.

• 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
• Don’t perform well in the dark

Nikon 7576 Monarch 5 8×42 Binoculars

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.

A highly recommended option that can perform well in all conditions at an affordable price.

• Highly durable
• Waterproof and fog-proof construction
• BaK-4 roof prism
• Twist locking eyecups
• Long eye relief
• Fixed magnification keeps the close focus limited

SWAROVSKI EL 10×42 Binoculars

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.

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.

• Exceptional clear views
• Waterproof up to 13 feet deep
• Come with many accessories
• Swarovski Optic Lifetime Warranty
• Easy to hold and focus
• Super duper expensive

HAWKE Endurance Binoculars

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.

The clarity, sharpness, and brightness are excellent for this price range.

• Great eye relief
• Multi-purpose
• No anti-glare features

Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binoculars

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?

They’re one of the most affordable options that work super well in the dark.

• Large exit pupil for better light transmission
• Multi-coated lenses
• BaK-4 prism
• Slightly heavy to hold for long hours

Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars

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.

Considering all these binoculars offer, they’re the best purchase for the money.

• Waterproof construction
• Central focus makes them user-friendly
• Armortek finish
• Not fog-proof

Author:  John P

As a blogger, I have had the pleasure of exploring some of the most exclusive destinations, indulging in the finest cuisine, accommodations, and experiences that the world has to offer. From the chic streets Paris to the scenic beauty of the Amalfi Coast, readers luxury. my, tips on the most exclusive hotels restaurants, and activities, giving you a glimpse into the world of high-end travel. But luxury travel is not just about extravagance - it's also about immersing yourself in the local culture and experiencing the true essence of a destination. With a passion for art, history, and architecture, I seek out the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make each destination truly unique. So whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, my blog is your guide to the ultimate European luxury travel experience. Join me on my journey as we explore the best that Europe has to offer, one luxurious destination at a time.

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Best Binoculars for a Safari (at different budgets)

This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to use them, we earn a commission.

A good pair of binoculars is more or less a necessity when going on a safari. The right pair of binoculars can last for decades and will significantly improve your experience and the overall enjoyment and quality of your safari more than you can imagine.

I have done my best to explain everything you need to know when buying binoculars as well as suggested some specific models for different budgets in this post. The links in this post go to Amazon where you can see the current prices.

The most important takeaway from this post is that while you should not spend too little on a pair of binoculars, there is also no need to overspend. You can get an excellent pair of binoculars that will greatly improve your safari experience without breaking the bank.

I personally use and like binoculars with 8×42 magnification and lens diameter but I also like 10×42 ones so most of the binoculars I have recommended in this post have these specifications. If these numbers mean nothing to you, you can skip the first few headlines and scroll down to the “What to Look for In a Pair of Binoculars” section where I explain them and some other things that are great to know about when considering what binoculars to get.

The binoculars I have recommended in this post are ones where I think you get good value for your money, but they are just suggestions. If you do not like these specific models, you can see many other models with similar specifications by following the links.

Best Binoculars Under $100

The BAK4 from Focevi offers a crystal clear image and excellent zoom while still being lightweight and compact, so it is easy to carry with you anywhere. These binoculars are even waterproof so you don’t have to worry about them in rainy weather.

Best Binoculars Under $600

The Nikon Monarch 5 8×42 is an excellent choice. They have a clear and sharp image, great focus, and a nice design. If you are up for spending just a bit more than that, the newer Nikon Monarch 7 8×42 looks a bit nicer (in my opinion), but it seems like the changes from the Monarch 5 are mostly cosmetical. Both the Monarch 5 and 7 are waterproof and very durable.

Best Binoculars at Any Budget

If you are looking for the absolute best money can buy, Swarovski 10×42 EL or Leica Noctivid 8×42 (or 10×42) are both completely outstanding and among the absolute best of the best. These are excellent for avid safari tourists but are mostly meant for people who use binoculars very often (or people with a very high budget for binoculars). These binoculars are not necessary for most people.

What to Know Before Buying Binoculars

Spending too much on a pair of binoculars can provide you with specs and features only the most advanced users will have any benefit from so there is no need to overspend. Spending too little on the other hand, can affect quality and durability and you can miss out on some very useful features such as dust- and waterproofing.

Before you go ahead and purchase a pair of binoculars, it is important that you consider what the purpose of the purchase is.

Since you have found your way to my website about African wildlife, I will make a bold assumption and say that you are probably interested in a pair of binoculars that will enhance your safari experience.

Many of the animals you will want to see on your safari are nocturnal and your chances of spotting them are better in the very early or the very late hours of the day when the sun is not fully up. To improve your experience when looking for nocturnal animals on your safari, I recommend getting a pair of binoculars that work well in low-light conditions.

In addition to this, features such as dust- and waterproofness are not uncommon in good binoculars. I personally like and use binoculars that are both dust and waterproof as it means I do not have to worry about the weather and I do not have to pack my things up and head home if it begins to rain.

Lastly, it is important to know about the specs of your binoculars as this affects both the zoom level and the field of view of your binoculars. More on this in a bit.

What to Look for In a Pair of Binoculars

• Specs . When looking at binoculars, you will see a number that gives you info about the magnification power and the objective lens diameter. This number can for instance be 8×42. In this example, 8 is the magnification power and 42 is the diameter of the objective lens. The higher the magnification power is, the closer your target will appear. Higher magnification power can also make it more difficult to hold the binoculars steady. I personally use and like 8×42.
• Lowlight conditions. Some binoculars are made in a way so that they work extra well in low-light conditions. This can be very useful when you are out looking for animals before sunrise or after sunset but they also work great during the day.
• Parts . This one is much more low-tech than the previous two but definitely still worth considering. Some binoculars come with cases to keep them in or straps to keep them securely around your neck or over your shoulders. I like having a strap on my binoculars so that I know nothing will happen if I happen to drop them.
• Comfort . The touch and feel of binoculars can vary greatly and it is a good idea to find some that fit you and feel comfortable in your hands and on your eyes.
• Weight . The weight of binoculars varies a lot and is also worth taking into account. For some people, heavier binoculars will do just fine but if for instance, you’re buying binoculars for your kids or you have trouble holding the binoculars completely still, a lighter pair might be a good idea.
• Price . Make sure not to buy the cheapest binoculars you can find as the quality and thereby your experience will be negatively affected and you might have to replace them within a few years anyway. High-quality binoculars can last for many years and sometimes even for a lifetime.
• Design . Make sure you buy a pair of binoculars you really like. Sure, the design won’t necessarily affect the quality but if you end up buying binoculars you don’t really like, you will likely replace them eventually anyway so save yourself the money and the trouble and buy some you really like from the beginning.

How to Fit Binoculars to Your Eyes

Everybody are different and so are their eyes and vision so to get the most out of your binoculars, it is important to fit them to your eyes. We will do this in four simple steps.

Most binoculars have eye caps which can either be folded in or out by twisting them to adjust the distance between your eyes and the binoculars.

If you wear glasses, you may want to fold them in (as seen on the left eye cap in the picture of my beloved binoculars below). If you do not wear glasses, try unfolding them (as seen on the right eyecap below). People have different preferences and most importantly, different eyes, so go ahead and try both and see what fits you.

I do not wear glasses myself and both folded and unfolded eyecaps actually seem to work just fine for me.

Next, you want to adjust the width of the binoculars. More specifically, the distance between the two eyepieces. This is done simply by moving the two parts closer or further apart. The best way to find the width that fits you the best is to simply just try it out. The goal is that you should have a full image in both eyepieces when looking at a distant object. Try focusing on a distant object and then closing first one eye and then the other and then keep both open. Ideally, you should have the same image all the time.

Dioptric adjustment

The dioptric setting is there to compensate for any difference in strength between your eyes. You adjust this by first locating the diopter adjustment. On my binoculars its on the right eyepiece (see image below) and then only keeping that eye open while looking through the binoculars at a reasonably distant object and turning the diopter until the image is sharp and clear.

Focusing the binoculars

Lastly, you want to fully focus the binoculars. Do so by looking through the binoculars at the same object as before with both eyes open. Now turn the wheel in the middle of the binoculars (see image below) until you see a fully clear image.

Try playing around with these settings a bit until you get a perfectly clear image.

Top Binoculars Brands

I have done a ton of research on different brands and models of binoculars and placed my winners in three categories based on their price. First, the very best that money can buy, then the best value-for-money binoculars where quality at a reasonable price has been prioritized and lastly, the best binoculars under $100.

The best of the best

If you simply want the best of the best and are prepared to pay for it, these three brands are widely considered to produce some of the best binoculars that money can buy.

These are brands where you can be absolutely certain that you can count on the quality. Both the look and feel as well as the sharpness of the image are unlike any other binoculars I have ever used. You cannot go wrong with these three brands.

High quality at a reasonable price

If you are looking for brands that produce great quality binoculars that are more reasonably priced than the above, these are some highly recommended brands.

Best binoculars under $100

When you are on a safari, having a pair of binoculars is infinitely better than not having any and if your budget for binoculars is not large enough for the binoculars I have recommended so far, then you might want to take a look at some of these brands that offer some binoculars at a lower price.

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What are the Best Safari Binoculars and How to Choose Them (2020)

A good pair of binoculars is indispensable on a trip to Africa to watch its wildlife. The choice of the best bino to take with you may be a difficult one since there are so many different models and brands each claiming to offer top-notch features. The products you’ll find differ in configurations as well as in price. This article is meant to help a prospective buyer make the best decision when purchasing binoculars for safari. To be clear, this article applies not only to African safaris but will be useful for any place you may go to view spectacular landscapes and magnificent wildlife.

Why you need binoculars

People going on a safari often wonder: Are binoculars really needed? But there are many reasons that suggest that it is quite necessary to have them with you.

First of all, a safari is not a visit to the zoo. The wild animals roam free over vast spaces. Although a safari holiday is all about getting as close as possible to animals in their natural habitat, it is really not possible to get close to every animal for safety reasons, among others. With a pair of binoculars, however, you will be amazed at how many exciting views you’ll gain by looking at the little interesting details that would have gone unnoticed when viewed with the naked eye.

Good binos will thus not only enhance your overall safari experience but will also allow you to view animals up and close. For example, the distinct fur patterns of leopards used to identify them individually can easily be viewed through optics, but is much harder without.

Plus, keep in mind that a trip such as this should definitely not revolve only around seeing the big five (that is lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and Cape buffaloes), but it should also include viewing the beautiful birds and maybe even the amazing night skies – a task that would prove difficult if you’re not equipped with a good pair of safari binoculars.

Also, wildlife is most active and often easiest to find in the dawn and dusk hours, so nature watchers need binoculars that can magnify and brighten images in low light conditions.

Finally, although most tours will have one or even two shared pairs of binoculars on board, they are usually the cheap type that produce low-quality images. It is recommended that you bring your own pair so as not to miss the right moments simply because someone else is using the shared one.

Quick Recommendation

The technicalities of choosing binos may not appeal to everyone and so, I’ll provide a quick product recommendation before we dive into the details. Let’s just say, you can’t go wrong with this one and they’re some of the best binoculars for safari out there. Scroll further down for more details and other excellent products to consider.

One of the best safari binoculars that give you excellent value for money is the Athlon Optics Midas. It has impressive main features and is built with seriously high-end components at a fairly affordable price. Although it’s not from one of the most popular brands, the Midas 8x42 provides everything you’ll need in a binocular for your trip.

The 8x42 configuration is perfect as far as magnification power and size go. The bino not only offers close focus of just 2 meters or 6.5 feet but has a wide field of view as well. The Midas is also lightweight and easy to hold in your hand. It is also the perfect companion for use in bad weather conditions since it’s water and fogproof. This model is also equipped with the extra-low dispersion glass that gives a clearer image while eliminating glare. The ED glass also helps reduce chromatic fringes around objects.

Although the Midas is in the mid-range price category, it may be classified as one of the best binoculars for a non-professional user. You really do not have to spend a $1000 plus to get a high-end binocular if you’re not a professional user and will only need them for a safari holiday and similar activities. With the Midas 8X42, best quality optics and components and almost all features that are normally found on very expensive high-end binoculars are offered at a lower price and may be all you need.

What to look for in a pair of binoculars

Choosing the best optics for a trip to Africa involves getting acquainted with certain features. Let’s go through them.

Magnification Power

Magnification is one of the most important features that a buyer must pay close attention to before making a purchase. The magnification power is included in the model information provided by the manufacturer. You’ll find two numbers stated, usually separated by an ’x’. The first of these two numbers represents the magnification power. It is can be, for instance, 8x, 10x or higher. Binoculars with a magnification of 10x mean that objects at a distance will be seen 10 times larger than they would naturally appear without any aid. It’s also important to note that for some products, the value could be variable (called “zoom binoculars”), however, those with a fixed magnification usually offer more quality.

Higher magnification numbers do not necessarily mean a good thing since the higher the factor, the smaller the field of view. Another downside associated with very high magnification numbers is that it becomes difficult to hold it stable in your hands and therefore, images appear unstable.

Magnification of 8x would definitely be a good choice for a wonderful safari experience. It is very easy to hold such binos in any position and they offer a good field of view.

The objective lenses are the next important feature to consider. Their size is important, since the larger the lens, the more light is allowed into the optical system and the brighter the objects will appear. The diameter of the objective lens is also included in the model information. It is represented by the second number after the ‘x’ as described above. A pair of binoculars described as 10x42, therefore, have the diameter of its objective lens as 42 millimeters.

From an image quality point of view, a larger objective lens is highly preferred since the images are bright and clear. It is best to use such large lenses in areas with low light such as during the dawn and dusk hours. This certainly does not mean that binoculars with smaller lenses are no good, however, when a smaller lens is used (say a bino with an objective lens of 25 mm), in dim light, it would produce images of low quality. Smaller lenses are advantageous since they make for smaller binos and are easier to hold for longer periods and they are much lighter when compared to those with larger lenses.

An objective lens of 42 millimeters or 50 millimeters is usually considered the best safari binoculars size. 42mm allow just the right amount of light and is much easier to carry around whereas one of 50 millimeters will prove useful in dim light conditions and is best used if a safari tour involves mostly being in a vehicle.

Other things to consider

There are some other minute but important features that may interest you and are common in most binoculars beside those mentioned above:

•    Field of view •    Exit pupil •    Eye relief •    Weatherproofing •    Compact size

Field of view (FOV) simply refers to the area visible through the eyepiece of a binocular. It is usually affected by the magnification and the size of the objective lens such that a higher magnification will result in a smaller field of view while larger lenses tend to offer a larger field of view.

The exit pupil diameter relates directly to image brightness on a binocular.  It refers to the size of the ray of light that hits the eye after traveling through the eyepiece. Its value is determined by dividing the lens size by the magnification. A larger number obtained from this calculation means brighter images will be observed. So, in order not to sacrifice on the brightness of an image, it is best to pick a binocular with a reasonable magnification power and a larger lens.

Another important feature is eye relief and this will mostly interest people who wear glasses when viewing objects through a binocular. Eye relief is the distance that the eye needs to be from the eyepiece for a full field of view,  eliminating shadows and blurry images.  It is usually shown in millimeters and the minimum eye relief recommended for those who wear glasses is 15 millimeters, though more is better.

A pair of binoculars that is both fog proof and waterproof is desirable, especially on a safari tour. A weatherproof device is designed to protect the interior from water, dust, and small particles that can ruin your view. Purchasing binoculars that have a rubber coating on the outside also offer some protection from shocks.

A person who opts for a safari trip that involves mostly vehicular movement may consider purchasing binoculars that are larger and heavier whereas a trip that involves a good deal of walking ideally requires a pair of binoculars that are compact-sized, especially if the trip involves travelling through rough terrain while carrying a lot of equipment.

So, with all of that covered, let’s go through some other exciting product options that you can readily find available for purchase.

The Wingspan Optics SkyView 8x42 is a great bino for bird watching. It is a little cheaper than the Athlon Optics Midas described above but it offers pretty good specs. With its unique features, it is no wonder that it is very popular among amateur birders.

Trying to spot interesting birds found on safari is a bit more challenging than viewing the larger animals on land since they are fast and could be hidden from view. Birders who desire to see accurate and clear colors on these small creatures without spending much should consider getting the SkyView. It will also come in handy when viewing other animals, since if you can watch birds with these, you can definitely watch bigger and slower animals as well.

The magnification power and lens size of the SkyView are the same as with the Midas above. The specifications are what you’d expect on a quality bino. It comes with multi-coated lenses and coated prisms and it also uses extra-low dispersion (ED) glass. The field of view it offers is very good for safari trips (393 feet at 1000 yards) and it is easy to carry around. It can also be used in bad weather conditions since it is fully waterproof and fog proof.

The Nikon Action 10x50 model offers its users increased magnification power and a great build. This product is nothing short of what a buyer would expect from Nikon, a brand specializing in producing both camera lenses and optical lenses. Since there is more magnification power on this binocular, you might expect reduced brightness, however, the 10x50 model has large objective lenses which still makes it a good choice for low light conditions.

Using the 10x50 EX Extreme model for a safari trip that involves walking may not be ideal since it is heavier than some other models (weighing 2.25 lbs or 1.02kg) and may best be used from a safari tour vehicle. With its Porro design and a wide space between the objective lenses, the 10x50 model may offer better light transmission and greater depth of field, and it is preferred over many other binoculars with a similar design because of its center-focus knob.

Buyers should, however, note one limitation of the Nikon 10x50 model – its close focus value is very large. As such, looking at objects closer than 23 feet will produce unclear images since the objects viewed will not be brought into focus.

The Nikon Action EX binoculars come at a relatively cheap price and are a great value for money. They come with multi-coated lenses and a rubber coating to absorb shock while providing a comfortable grip. Buyers who prefer binoculars that do not compromise on brilliant image quality and durability may consider purchasing this product.

The 8x32 Wingspan Optics binocular is very affordable when compared to its expensive counterparts mentioned above including the SkyView 8x42 model by the same manufacturer. Birders with a limited budget may want to consider this bino since it it’s a very good tool for its size and price range. It is small in size and lightweight, so it is easy to carry along for a long walk on your safari. Included in the box is a neck strap which offers comfort desired for long periods.

Designed with multi-coated lenses and a phase correction prism, the ProBirder 8x32 gives an ultra HD quality image to allow users to enjoy birdwatching fully. It also has an extra-low dispersion glass and a good close focus value so that images viewed through it remain clear and vibrant. The magnification power is ideal for such trips at 8x and offers a decent field of view, however, the diameter of the lens may leave images with less brightness when viewed in low light.

Another minor weakness of the ProBirder 8x32 model is that its lens is not scratch resistant and extra care must be taken to protect them from scratches. Although this binocular is designed to be waterproof, it will not survive if accidentally submerged in water, however, it can be used without worry during rain.

The TrailSeeker 8x32 binocular is fairly compact and lightweight due to its magnesium frame. Its magnification power at 8x is ideal for wildlife watching and it also has a decent field of view. With its highly reliable optical performance and stylish design, this pair of binoculars may be all a buyer needs to fully enjoy a safari tour.

The TrailSeeker 8x32 comes with a slightly smaller objective lens at 32 millimeters just like the Wingspan Optics ProBirder model discussed earlier. This means that it is comfortable to hold in your hands for a longer period as well as easy to carry with you when walking. The smaller lens, however, may not perform well in dim light and images viewed may not be as clear as those seen through a larger lens, since the amount of light entering the lens is reduced.

The Celestron TrailSeeker is designed with fully multicoated lenses as well as coated prisms that contribute to producing sharp colors and well-defined images. With a 15.6 millimeters eye relief,  the TrailSeeker 10x32 is usually okay for use with glasses. It is waterproof and fog proof and it can withstand use in tough weather conditions. Individuals on a tighter budget who still want high-level performance binoculars that offer a really wide field of view of 409 feet at 1000 yards and an excellent close focus value may choose to purchase this product.

The image stabilization feature makes the Canon 10x30 IS binoculars quite different from all the others discussed above. When using binoculars with a very high magnification, it is usually difficult to keep the image still since hand vibrations have greater effect at higher magnification powers. One easy solution for this problem would be to carry around a tripod but this may not always be helpful especially on safari trips. The Canon 10x30 image stabilization binoculars eliminate the need for a tripod.

It is designed in such a way that shaky images are immediately corrected when viewed through it by an automatically tilting lens inside the device. With a press and hold of a button, the image stabilization feature is activated and shaky images are eliminated, thus giving the viewer much more detail to enjoy. It is easy to use and the dedicated stabilizer button is well positioned so that it can be easily reached. The Canon 10x30 is also comfortable to hold with its finely designed rubber coating which also provides extra protection.

Designed with Super Spectra multi-coating, the Canon IS 10x30 promises users high image quality. Despite its high price tag, many people find the Canon’s IS binos amazing after using their image stabilization feature. One shortcoming of this binocular that may bother some individuals is its weight. The bulky nature of the Canon 10x30 may make carrying it around a little inconvenient.

A few final words

Africa’s top safari tours include visiting places like Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, Botswana, South Africa, and Kenya. If you are planning a safari holiday to visit any of these destinations mentioned,  you have definitely made a good choice and with the best safari binoculars, your trip will surely be all you expected and more. Remember that it is necessary to bring your own binos so you won’t miss out on all the interesting details you’ll encounter on such exciting once-in-a-lifetime trips. Settling for low quality optics or deciding not to bring along them at all may result in gaining little more than frustration on your tour.  You’ll be able to put your binos to use even after your safari adventure. For example, fishing, hunting and sporting events are just some occasions when a great pair of binocs would prove useful.

Before you buy anything, ensure that it is within your budget and that it possesses all the features and specifications you need. To help you make the right decision about the best binoculars for safari, read user reviews online, such as on Amazon.

• 7 Tips for Choosing Good Safari Binoculars How do you go about picking the right binoculars for your wildlife adventure? Read our tips to make the best choice.
• Why 8x42 Binoculars are a Great Choice for an African Safari When selecting binos for your safari trip, 8x42 is one of the best setups to have, for several reasons.
• 5 Amazing Things You May See on a Safari Only If You Have Binoculars Optics can enhance your safari experience significantly, in fact, it's unthinkable you might go on one without them. Here are just some things you'd otherwise miss.

Experience the Majestic Wildlife in Stunning Detail With the Best Binoculars Designed for Safari

• August 5, 2023
• Scott Jones

Table of Contents

Going on African Safari with your family or friends is a great way to cool off specifically after some long duration in work. It should be a memorable experience and a right pair of binoculars can make all the difference.

African Safari trips are popular in the winter dry season from June to October when the grass is low and distance visibility is high. There is another season towards the end of the year during the longest holidays. When schools close and you want to take your family along the Savannah or for some high-end retreats along the beach it will be wise to arm yourself with some awesome optics.

Skip the details, just show me the best ones

Choosing Best Binoculars for Safari

Before going through the detail reviews on the best binoculars for African safari, you might be thinking of learning how to choose binoculars for safari. Here is a simple guide that will help to do just that.

Do you really need binoculars for safari?

Yes! Most of the time your vehicles will get very close to the animals. But sometimes you’ll find animals, for instance a leopard in the distance is hiding behind some rocks or bush and waving its tail. Also some shy animals like deer and bunnies are rarely close to the track and are very hard to spot! Don’t you think in that case a right pair of binoculars will help you make the most precious memories of your safari experience?

Do you need high magnification binoculars for African safari?

No! In most of the cases you can use general purpose binoculars. It’s not wise to take  high magnification binoculars either. Nor do you need high quality expensive binoculars. High magnification full size binoculars are not recommended for African safari because they are not easy to hold still in your hands.  As you will be viewing the wildlife from a vehicle, the image will appear shaky with high magnification binoculars.

Safari binoculars should be compact or midsize and ideal for travel. If you are a birdwatcher you can take your bird watching binoculars as well. A pair of 7x or 8x 0r at most 8x binoculars are excellent for safari use. But remember again, optics specs are not all you will want; quality also matters.

What size objective lens (aperture) do you need?

The bigger the objective lens or aperture the brighter the image. However you don’t really need bigger objective lens (aperture) for safari as most of the safari tours occur in daylight and end before afternoon. You can choose any one from 7×28, 8×25, 8×30 0r 8×32 – all are excellent for daytime African safari tour.

What should be the  exit pupil  for safari binoculars?

Well, exit pupil is another important factor while selecting binoculars for your safari tour. You cannot judge a binocular only by its ‘ magnification’  and ‘ objective lens diameter ‘ combination. This is because when magnification number increases the objective lens diameter also needs to be increased to get the same light ratio. Here comes the term exit pupil .

To determine your binoculars exit pupil just divide the objective lens diameter by the magnification number: (magnification number/objective lens diameter). The 8×32 binoculars’ exit pupil (32/8=4 mm) is bigger than 8×25 binoculars exit pupil (25/8=3.2 mm).

In daylight the adult pupil doesn’t open at its fuller diameter and it could be approximately 3.00 mm. So, choose a pair of binoculars that have an exit pupil around 3.00 mm.

What should be the optimum weight of safari binoculars?

Safari binoculars should be compact or mid sized. If you want to avoid the lack of compact binoculars mid size binoculars are the best choice. The weight of a pair of mid-sized binoculars shouldn’t be more than 500-600 grams. Mid-sized binoculars are those that have decent magnification (8x or 10x) and big enough objective lenses such as 8×30, 8×32, or 10×32. But it is a wiser decision to choose the best compact binoculars for safari.

Can I take a monocular in my safari trip?

Yes, you can use a monocular as well. The problem with monocular is that you cannot use both eyes at a time. However, a monocular is a good option when you are on the jeep and you need one hand to keep free.

What other things determine the quality of view? 

Quality or type of view that you will enjoy is everything. It is what determines how much you will enjoy using your binoculars and if the experience will be as satisfactory as you may want it to be.

The quality of view of most binoculars will always be determined by the following things; the quality of the glass prisms and lenses, the objective lens diameter, coatings on the optics, and the optical alignment of the binocular barrels. Premium brands such as Steiner, Swarovski, Vortex, Pentax, or Kowa give always give better performance.

Functionality Matters

Ease of operation is another thing that you can never write off easily. It is important to understand that things like birds, game, and also cars will always move pretty fast. Because of this, you will be on the safe side if you have an easy to operate binoculars. Smooth focusing knob, long eye relief, waterproof design will certainly increase your safari experience.

How much should I spend for safari binoculars?

As the binoculars industry is very competitive it’s very true that you will get what you pay for. Lens quality is more important than high-end specifications. This is why you will find many super quality binoculars (Steiner, Swarovski etc.) with low end specifications. My opinion is, if you don’t spend lots of time outside hunting or looking at birds then don’t spend much. For casual wildlife or bird watching, you will find the cheapest binoculars for safari with the range of $100-225.

To make your work easy, I have compiled some of the best binoculars for safari that you could take with you. Read through the best African safari binoculars reviews.

Top 5 Binoculars for Safari

Celestron 71330 Nature DX 8x32 BaK-4 Prism Binoculars, Green

• Brand: Celestron
• Model: 71330 Nature DX
• Magnification: 8x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
• Prism Type: BaK-4 Roof Prism
• Field of View: 388 feet at 1,000 yards
• Close Focus Distance: 6.5 feet
• Eye Relief: 17.5mm
• Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
• Fully Multi-Coated Optics: Yes
• Tripod Adaptable: Yes
• Dimensions: Approximately 12.7 x 4.57 x 12.45 cm
• Weight: Approximately 18 ounces (510 grams)

Explaining Celestron Nature DX 8×32

Celestron Nature DX 8×32 is one of the greatest budget safari binoculars that I loved so much. You might know by now, the Celestron brand is a revered brand among the best quality binoculars.

BaK-4 Prisms with Phase Coating:

This Nature DX 8×32 Binocular does so much to make sure that you get the best safari experience. For starters, it uses the BaK-4 Prisms with phase coating to increase the image contrast and also resolution so that you can end up with sharper more specifically highly detailed images under your view.

8X Magnification Power and 32mm Objective Lens Diameter:

The 8X magnification power and the 32 mm objective lens diameter will ensure that the image you are seeing appears 8X closer and that you have enough field of view to even capture other awesome scenery around the object under view. By doing this, the Celestron Nature DX 8×32 ensures that you have a personalized viewing experience across your safari to savor.

• Bak-4 prisms with phase coating
• Specifically highly detailed images
• 32 mm objective lens diameter
• Personalized viewing experience

No carry-on bag

Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) Optics:

And as if that’s not enough, in order to provide the maximum amount of light transmission through the optical path, this binoculars also gives you a cool treat of its fully multi-coated (FMC) optics – what every top rated binocular has.

6.5 Feet Close Focus:

One thing that you should remember before spending your money on any binoculars for safaris is the need to watch birds, butterflies or maybe sports as well. This is important as safaris are meant to be enjoyed from every angle; this set of binoculars qualifies for this as it comes with a 6.5 feet close focus that will allow you to get a detailed and up close observation of every subject that you may need to view in close proximity along your safari.

Compact and Lightweight Design:

Well, for the people who know what to look for in a safari binocular, the Celestron Nature DX 8×32 actually fits the choice. Thanks to its compact and lightweight design that allows it to fit perfectly in a pocket or even a glove box so that you can enjoy an easy carry on long all excursions.

My Personal Recommendation On Celestron 71330 Nature DX 8×32 BaK-4 Prism Binoculars

As a professional and experienced user, I have found the Celestron 71330 Nature DX 8×32 Binoculars to be an excellent choice for safari, travelers, wildlife observation and birdwatching. The BaK-4 prisms with phase coating provide exceptional image clarity and detail , allowing for a truly unique viewing experience. The 8x magnification and 32mm objective lens diameter strike a great balance between image zoom and a wide field of view, making it diversified for different scenarios.

These binoculars are sturdy and waterproof, which is crucial for outdoor use, especially in unpredictable weather conditions. The fully multi-coated optics ensure excellent light transmission and image brightness, even in low-light situations.

One standout feature is the 6.5 feet close focus, which has been incredibly useful for getting detailed views of nearby subjects during my outdoor adventures. Additionally, the compact and lightweight design of the binoculars makes them easy to carry on long hikes or excursions.

The only downside I’ve encountered is the lack of a carry-on bag, which would have been a convenient addition for protecting the binoculars during transport. Overall, the Celestron 71330 Nature DX 8×32 Binoculars have consistently delivered high-quality optics and performance, enhancing my outdoor experiences and helping me capture the beauty of nature up close.

Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars Compact Lightweight Performance Outdoor Optics, 10x42

• Magnification: 10x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
• Prism System: Roof Prism
• Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated
• Field of View: 316 feet at 1000 yards
• Close Focus Distance: 6 feet
• Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes, with nitrogen filling
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 6.9 x 2.4 inches (W x H x D)
• Weight: Approximately 25 ounces
• Color: Matte Black
• Rugged Construction: Built to withstand various weather conditions and rough handling.

Explaining Steiner Safari UltraSharp 10×42 Binoculars

The Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars, boasting a compact and lightweight design, are a remarkable addition to the realm of outdoor optics. These binoculars are meticulously crafted to cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts specially for safari and travelers, offering a blend of superb magnification and optical clarity that’s sure to elevate your outdoor adventures.

Magnification and Objective Lens:

With a magnification power of 10x, the Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars allow you to get up close and personal with distant subjects. The 42mm objective lens diameter ensures ample light-gathering capacity, delivering bright and vivid images even in low-light conditions. Whether you’re birdwatching, hiking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, these binoculars provide the visual clarity you desire.

Prism System and Lens Coatings:

These binoculars feature a roof prism system that contributes to their streamlined, compact form. The lenses are fully multi-coated, enhancing light transmission and ensuring optimal image brightness and sharpness. This means you won’t miss any detail, no matter how subtle, during your observations.

Field of View and Close Focus Distance:

The Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars offer an impressive field of view, spanning 316 feet at 1000 yards. This wide field of vision allows you to take in panoramic landscapes or quickly locate and track moving wildlife. Additionally, the binoculars have a close focus distance of just 6 feet, allowing you to scrutinize nearby subjects with exceptional clarity.

Durability and Weather Resistance:

Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, these binoculars are both waterproof and fogproof, thanks to nitrogen filling. This means you can confidently use them in various weather conditions without worrying about moisture affecting their performance. The rubber armor not only provides durability but also offers a secure and comfortable grip, ensuring a firm hold even when your hands are wet or gloves are worn.

Customization and Convenience:

The Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars feature individual eyepiece focus, allowing you to fine-tune the focus for each eye independently. This feature is particularly useful for those with vision differences between their eyes. Furthermore, these binoculars are tripod adaptable, making them suitable for prolonged observations and reducing hand fatigue.

Included Accessories and Warranty:

When you purchase these binoculars, you’ll receive a neck strap for easy carrying and protective lens caps to keep your optics safe when not in use. For added peace of mind, Steiner backs these binoculars with a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty, showcasing their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, the Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars Compact Lightweight Performance Outdoor Optics, 10×42, are an exceptional choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking high-quality binoculars that deliver outstanding performance and durability. Their compact and lightweight design, coupled with superb optics, makes them an indispensable tool for exploring the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re embarking on a birdwatching expedition or enjoying a hike in the wilderness, these binoculars will enhance your outdoor experience by providing you with clear and vivid views of the world around you.

My Personal Recommendation On Steiner Safari UltraSharp 10×42 Binoculars

I’ve used the Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars Compact Lightweight Performance Outdoor Optics, 10×42, in my work as a wildlife photographer and naturalist, and I want to share that they’re truly outstanding. I absolutely can’t do without these binoculars. They’ve got a 10x magnification and a 42mm objective lens, which means they give me really clear and colorful images. This helps me see all the little details in animals and scenery when I’m out exploring. And the best part is, they’re small and not heavy at all, so I can carry them around for hours without getting worn out. Their tough build and resistance to water and fog have been a real lifesaver in challenging weather, ensuring I never miss a moment in the wild. I truly appreciate the fact that these binoculars allow for separate adjustments of each eyepiece and can be mounted on a tripod. These binoculars are awesomely diversified, and that means they’re good for looking at lots of different stuff. I really, really like the Steiner Safari UltraSharp Binoculars, and now they’re like my best friend for my professional gear.

Nikon 8218 Trailblazer 10x25

• Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm
• Field of View: 342 feet at 1000 yards
• Close Focus Distance: 11.5 feet
• Dimensions: 4.5 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 9.9 ounces (280 grams)
• Eye Relief: 10mm
• Central Focus Wheel: Convenient and easy-to-use for focusing

Explaining Nikon 8218 Trailblazer 10×25

From Nikon, the Trailblazer 10×25 ATB is typically one of the best safari binoculars under 100. However, that doesn’t mean that it can’t perform well, it can actually work very well.

Compact Design and Rugged Shell:

With a compact design and a rugged shell for a cover, the Trailblazer 10×25 ATB actually performs so well under the most demanding circumstances. In fact, it will make sure that you have the very best experience in the following way.

10X Magnification Power and 25mm Objective Lens Diameter:

To get you a crystal clear view, the binocular comes with a 10X magnification power like most high-end binoculars that we have seen here do. This magnification power allows you to see any object that is 10X closer than they actually are. More importantly, the 25 mm objective lens diameter; will amp your view in two ways. For starters, it will allow enough light to pass through so that you can get clear-cut images to view under your microscope.

• Compact design
• Rugged shell for a cover
• Crystal clear view
• Wide enough field of view
• Compact enough and you can easily slip it inside your pocket

No nitrogen filling

Wide Field of View:

Next, it will leave you with a wide enough field of view so that you don’t have to actually strain when watching your favorite birds under the microscope. As a matter of fact, you will be able to see the object that you are tracking and enjoy the scenery around them without having to move your binoculars once you have set it in focus and chosen to enjoy your view.

Compact and Portable:

Even better, the Trailblazer 10×25 ATB is actually one of best compact binoculars for safari and you can easily slip it inside your pocket for a quick withdrawal whenever you intend to capture the best scenery around your safari.

Porro Prism and Fully Multi-Coated Optics:

Ideally, this set of binoculars also comes with the perfect Porro prism and fully multi-coated lens/ optics that will guarantee the perfect phase correction and a quick elimination of the color aberration effects that might leave you with color fringe.

Adjustable Focus Knob:

You don’t have to worry about putting your image under focus though as the adjustable focus knob is usually easy to access and use. It is also reliable and for a better word view friendly across all terrains.

My Personal Recommendation On Nikon 8218 Trailblazer 10×25

I used these binoculars outside a lot, and they are really good to take with you because they’re small. Even though they aren’t super expensive, they work really well. They make far away things look really clear because they can make things look bigger 10 times. And because they have a 25mm front glass, they let in lots of light, so you can see really well even if it’s not super bright outside.

What’s cool about them is that they’re small and tough, so you can use them when you go on adventures outside. You can see a lot of stuff at once with them because they have a wide view. I like that you can put them in your pocket easily for quick use.

Nikon made them so that you see colors the right way, and they work well even if you’re on bumpy ground. The only not-so-great thing is they might get foggy sometimes because they don’t have something called nitrogen inside, but in general, they’re really good for people who like nature and traveling.

Best Choices

Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm

• Brand: Upland Optics
• Model: Perception HD
• Field of View: Not specified
• Product Dimensions: 12.4 x 5.1 x 14 cm
• Item Weight: ‎‎1.44 Pounds
• Color: ‎‎Black
• Water Resistance Level: ‎‎Waterproof

Explaining Upland Optics Perception HD 10×42 mm

Another top rated best binocular for safaris is the Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm. It is also best as hunting binoculars .

Versatility:

This one of the best binocular brands with a high level of adaptation and which makes it one of the most reliable flexible edges. Because of this, it can easily double up as a bird watching binocular and also a camping, hiking, or mountaineering binocular.

Durable and Secure Cover:

To add on its exceptional quality, the Upland Optics Perception HD 10×42 comes with a strong and durable cover that befits any gadget that will be used for the most demanding and highly rugged activities in the wild. The cover is also grooved so that the binoculars get a non-slip grip, a sleek style, and a safe landing upon an accidental fall.

• Perfect porro prism
• Fully multi coated lens
• Perfect phase correction
• Water proof, dust proof, and fog proof touch
• Lead free glass ensures that you get clear cut view

Extra light

Exceptional Low-Light Performance:

Because hunting sprees, bird watching, nature views, or trail finding might occur under low lit areas and environments, this 10X42 binocular compensates for such poor lighting with its exceptional clear extra-low dispersion (ED) glasses. In addition to that, the 10X magnification lens ensures that you view the object under the binocular in a 10X closer pane than it actually is when viewed under plan eyesight. The need for maximum lighting is also boosted by the presence of a 42 mm objective lens diameter which will ensure that enough light streams through the lenses and into the binocular prisms.

Durability and Warranty:

The best thing however about this set of binoculars is that the device is actually built to survive the rough patches of the safari by its waterproof, fog-proof, and a durable rubberized body design. And just to be sure that it will stand the test of time is a lifetime warranty that makes sure that your binoculars are kept in shape every time it gets damaged. This also amps the lead-free glass that keeps the cloudy touch off your lenses.

Accessories:

This binocular comes with a soft carry case, neck strap, and flips down lens protectors to prevent dust from blurring your view and the clarity of the lenses. And if you intend to clean up the lenses you can use the included lens cloth.

My Personal Recommendation On Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm

I’ve tried out the Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm binoculars, and wow, they’re super cool! They’ve always amazed me when I use them outside for different stuff like looking at birds, going on hikes, and even when my uncle goes hunting. I think these binoculars should get a gold star for being some of the best ones to watch birds with!

One thing that’s really awesome about them is how strong and tough they are. They have this bumpy cover that makes them easy to hold, and it keeps them safe if they accidentally slip out of your hands. When you look through them, everything looks so clear and nice, like magic! That’s because they have something called Porro prism, fully multi-coated lenses, and something called phase correction, which makes everything look super clear.

Even when it’s getting dark outside, these binoculars still show you things really well because they have special glass called extra-low dispersion (ED) glass. That means they can see stuff even when it’s not very sunny! And they make far-away things look super close, like you’re using magic eyes.

Guess what? These binoculars are really strong against water, dust, and even fog! So, if you’re outside and it starts raining or gets all foggy, your binoculars will still work perfectly. And, if anything goes wrong, you’re covered because they have a lifetime warranty. That’s like a promise that they’ll always work great.

So, to sum it all up, the Upland Optics Perception HD 10x42mm binoculars are like your best buddy when you’re playing outside. They make everything look super clear and they won’t break easily. I think they’re amazing, and I’m sure you’ll love them too!

Xgazer Optics 12x50 Ultra HD Certvision Binoculars

• Brand: Xgazer Optics
• Model: 12x50 Ultra HD Certvision
• Magnification: 12x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Package Dimensions: 8.7 x 6.65 x 4.37 inches
• Item Weight: ‎‎2.26 pounds

Explaining Xgazer Optics 12×50 Ultra HD Certvision Binoculars

The Xgazer Optics 12×50 Ultra HD Certvision Binoculars are a remarkable optical instrument designed to provide users with an unparalleled viewing experience. These binoculars combine powerful magnification, a large objective lens diameter, and advanced optics to deliver stunning clarity and detail. Here’s a detailed description of these binoculars:

High Magnification Power: 

The Xgazer Optics 12×50 binoculars offer an impressive 12x magnification power. This means that they can bring distant objects 12 times closer than what the naked eye can see. Whether you’re observing wildlife, sporting events, or enjoying scenic landscapes, this level of magnification allows you to capture incredible detail.

Large Objective Lens Diameter:

With a generous 50mm objective lens diameter, these binoculars excel in gathering light. This feature is especially beneficial in low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk, providing brighter and clearer images. It ensures that you won’t miss out on any important details during your observations.

Roof Prism Design:

The binoculars utilize a roof prism design, known for its compact and streamlined shape. This design contributes to their overall portability and ease of use. They are comfortable to hold for extended periods, making them ideal for extended nature excursions or sporting events.

Advanced Optics:

While the specific lens coatings are not specified, high-quality optics are crucial for delivering sharp and vivid images. The Xgazer Optics 12×50 binoculars likely feature multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses to enhance light transmission, reduce glare, and minimize color aberrations, resulting in exceptional image quality.

Durability and Build:

Although detailed information about the build is not provided, these binoculars are expected to be built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Quality binoculars typically feature a rugged and durable construction, and these are likely no exception. A robust exterior ensures longevity and resilience in various weather conditions.

These binoculars come complete with essential accessories, including a neck strap for convenient carrying, a protective carrying case to safeguard your investment, lens caps to protect the glass surfaces, and a lens cloth for easy cleaning. These accessories enhance the overall usability and maintenance of the binoculars.

Overall, the Xgazer Optics 12×50 Ultra HD Certvision Binoculars are designed to provide users with a powerful and immersive viewing experience. With their high magnification, large objective lens diameter, and advanced optics, they are well-suited for a wide range of outdoor activities, from birdwatching to sporting events and more. While specific technical details are not provided, the overall design and accessories make them a promising choice for those seeking clarity and detail in their observations.

I used the Xgazer Optics 12×50 Ultra HD Certvision Binoculars lots of times outside, and I can say they are super duper awesome! They make everything look so amazing! With their 12x magnification, stuff that’s really far away looks super close and clear, like magic. Plus, they have a big 50mm lens, so even when it’s kinda dark outside, you can still see stuff really good.

These binoculars are made all sleek and cool, and they’re easy to hold. They feel super strong, like they won’t break even if you accidentally drop them. Even though they don’t talk about what’s on the lenses, they make everything look so sharp and colorful!

I take these binoculars with me whenever I go birdwatching, or when I wanna see animals and watch cool outdoor games. They’re like my best outdoor buddy because they can see stuff so well and even when it’s not super bright outside. It is also one of the best choices for bird watching binoculars .

So, if you ask me, the Xgazer Optics 12×50 Ultra HD Certvision Binoculars are like the best thing ever for enjoying the outdoors. They’re even better than I thought, and I’ve used lots of binoculars before!

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Best Binoculars For A Safari Holiday

Although you’ll get closer to wildlife than you can ever imagine on a safari holiday, a good pair of binoculars are still key to your enjoyment and everyone needs a pair. To help you choose the best binoculars, we’ll start with the following questions:

1. Is there a best binocular brand? 2. What binocular magnification is best for safari? 3. What do the numbers on binoculars mean?

Binoculars For A Safari Holiday – best brand?

While there’s no ‘best’ make for everyone, as budget will sometimes rule certain brands out, you’ll typically find the same names coming up time and again: Swarovski, Bushnell, Nikon, Leica, and Zeiss. These manufacturers are often involved with other optical equipment, such as cameras, since lens quality is of prime importance in both.

Best Binocular Magnification For Safari

Most people on safari will stick to a magnification of 7 or 8 which gives you a wide field of view and reacts less to any shake. Higher magnifications are possible and keen birdwatchers might choose a magnification of 10 or 12.

What Does The Other Number Mean?

The other number when binoculars are specified 8x?? is the size of the front lens. The bigger this number the more light will be gathered, particularly important on a safari holiday in the low light of an early morning wildlife drive, or as dusk falls at the other end of the day. Bigger lenses do mean heavier, bulkier binoculars though, so there’s a trade-off between portability and what you can see.

Rather than buying your binoculars over the internet, go into a shop – camera shops, such as Jessops, and outdoors shops, including Cotswold or Go Outdoors, often carry a binocular range – and try out some different options. Take the rusksack and jacket you’re taking on safari and see if the binoculars fit into a pocket, and check how comfortable they are to hold to your face for a few minutes as if you’re watching wildlife. Make sure they fit with your eyes so they are lined up with your pupils.

So What Binoculars Do Safari Guides Use?

As they’re a tool of their daily lives in the bush, and you’ll rarely find them without a pair round their necks, we’ve asked Africa’s top safari guides for their thoughts on the binoculars they use and which they recommend for their guests. At the bottom of the article we’ve pulled all the information they’ve given us into a series of charts showing guides’ thoughts on: – The binoculars they use on safari – The binoculars they recommend for safari – The magnification they recommend for binoculars for safari

Calvin Cottar – Cottars Camp , Kenya

Calvin Cottar is the fourth generation of safari guides in Kenya following in the footsteps of great grandfather Chas who came to Africa from the United States. Calvin’s own binoculars are a pair of Leica 10×50 which he describes as “heavy but also sharp and durable”.

In an ideal world he “wouldn’t mind a pair of Swarovski 10×50 binoculars as they are smaller and have exceptional optics.” Calvin says clients on a safari holiday “don’t need anything bigger than 8×40….but the most important thing is that every person has their own – the sharing thing does not work when you’re all trying to look at one magical moment at the same time.”

Jackson Looseyia – Private guide, Kenya

Jackson was born and grew up in the heart of Kenya’s Masai Mara surrounded by wildlife. Having trained as a safari guide with Ron Beaton at Rekero Camp he became a shareholder in the camp he worked in before appearing on the BBC’s Big Cat Live programme and striking out on his own as a private guide.

Jackson reiterates the point made by Calvin saying that you should not come on safari without binoculars. He owns a pair of Swarovski binoculars, which he describes as “surely the best” but suggests that Bushnell or Nikon are brands those on their first African holiday might look at.

With regards to magnification he has two recommendations 7×42 or 10×42.

Saba Douglas-Hamilton and Frank Pope – Elephant Watch Camp and Save The Elephants

Saba’s parents Oria and Iain are renowned within Kenya as safari camp owners and conservationists, but Saba and husband Frank came to the forefront when their family’s move to Elephant Watch Camp in Samburu National Park was featured on the BBC series This Wild Life.

Saba and Frank own a pair of Swarovski binoculars each, which Saba gives the whole product number for; the SLC 10×42 WB. It’s another pair of Swarovskis that she puts forward as her dream pair; the EL 10×42, launched in 2015. Saba has two binocular recommendations as the best for those coming on safari “10×42 for general animal viewing or 10×50 for keen birders” although she warns that the latter are pretty heavy.

David Luck – Wilderness Safaris, Botswana

David grew up in Zambia and developed his love of the bush in the South Luangwa where he tracked animals on anti-poaching patrols. From there he moved to Zimbabwe’s Matusadona and Botswana’s Okavango Delta where he was based as safari guide.

Over his 14 year career he’s guided as far afield as the Arctic, but covered numerous countries in Africa including Botswana, Madagascar, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe. He’s particularly keen on photography and ornithology and his ‘life-list’ for Africa stands at over 700 species. David owns one pair of binoculars, a pair that would make Saba jealous, EL 10×42. He loves them for their compact and rugged design as he needs binoculars on safari that are dust-proof and waterproof.

He states that “Swarovski’s crystal elements are fabulous and enable me to see clearly in low light conditions.” David’s fantasy binoculars are another pair of Swarovskis with a different magnification, the EL 8.5×42 and either these or the EL 10x42s are his recommendations for clients with the budget to stretch to them. He does note the significant weight of the EL 10x42s and suggests using a harness for stability and to avoid a sore neck when walking.

Roelof Schutte – Asilia Safaris, Kenya

Roelof has over 15 years’ experience as a safari guide in South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania and most recently with Asilia Africa in Kenya where he manages the Naboisho Camp in the Masai Mara as well as guiding walking safaris.

Roelof owns three pairs of binoculars, a pair of Swarovski 10×42 ELs (a make becoming a bit of a theme in this article) and two pairs of Zeiss 8×42. He finds the Swarovskis as best for safari as he states they are “crystal sharp, clear, with colour rendition almost, if not better, than the human eye! These binoculars also have a sharp image at the outer edges of the image circle, and has no ‘soft spots’ either central or outer edge, which is great.”

Although Roelof rates any binoculars by Swarovski, Zeiss or Leica as the best, he admits you don’t need to pay quite this level to still get an excellent pair of binoculars. He suggests Nikon’s Monarch range in particular but argues those going on safari should “always buy ‘roof prism’ (more streamlined and compact) binoculars, modern build and design, and not the old style ‘’Porro Prism’’ design, which is bulky with outdated technology design.”

Roelof suggests clients choose between 8×42 and 10×42 for their own binoculars as the 42mm lenses cope better with the low light conditions often encountered when wildlife viewing on a safari holiday. However his best advice is that everyone should have a pair each and not rely on others.

Beks Ndlovu – African Bush Camps, Zimbabwe and Botswana

Beks, together with his wife Sophia, is the founder of African Bush Camp. Born in a rural village close to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Beks went to boarding school in Plumtree before training as a safari guide in Hwange National Park and on the Zambezi River. He was awarded River Guide Of The Year in 1997 before going on to join Wilderness Safaris for whom he worked as a guide until he started African Bush Camps.

Beks treasures a pair of Leica 8×32 binoculars he bought over 12 years ago and, while he acknowledges Swarovki binoculars have excellent optics for safari, he says he is “one of those guys that when I find one good thing I look after it”. Beks also suggests Leica 8×32 binoculars for clients coming on safari “because they are light and easy to pack. Because I am active on safari, they are light around your neck and if you have to get down and walk fast or crawl on the ground during a walking safari, they are not cumbersome to the extent of beating on your chest.”

Like Calvin and Jackson, Beks believes binoculars are “one of the most important things to pack on safari and make a huge difference.”

Andrew Schoeman – &Beyond, South Africa

Andrew grew up in South Africa but has guided safaris throughout Africa, including the Serengeti and Okavango Delta. He’s a talented photographer, with two awards from the Veolia Wildlife Photographic Competition, and is currently based at Kirkman’s Kamp in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve where he hosts photographic safaris for &Beyond.

Andrew owns two pairs of binoculars, Nikon and Swarovski, both 10×42 magnification. While he shies away from recommending a particular brand for clients coming on safari, Andrew does suggest ensuring a 42 lens to make the most of low light and maximum of a 10x magnification as anything stronger is hard to keep steady.

Keyala ‘Kiki’ Phiri – Robin Pope Safaris, Zambia

Kiki was born in Mfuwe, close to the South Luangwa National Park where his father worked as a ranger. His first move into the safari industry was in the offices of Robin Pope Safaris although most evenings found him out on a wildlife drive volunteering as spotter. More recently he started guiding full time in 1997 and became manager of Nkwali Camp in 2002 before taking over the management of the safari houses as well as the camp in 2006.

Kiki states that he has “two pairs of binoculars which are Zeiss and Bushnell. My idea of carrying an extra pair is either to give it to my tea bearer if we are walking or guests.” It’s Zeiss that he says “is my favourite brand to take in the bush and is the one I would recommend to guests especially for people who go out on safari frequently. My first pair was Bushnell and when I received Zeiss as my birthday present it was a completely new world especially if you are a keen birder.”

“The magnification of my pairs of binos are 7×42 for Zeiss and 10×42 for Bushnell and according to my experience 7×42 or 8×42 works well.”

Binocular Summary and Statistics

Half the guides questioned use Swarovski binoculars in the bush and an even higher proportion state these would be their ideal for a safari. In terms of magnification it was more evenly spread between 10x and 8x with a small number of 7x, but almost all suggest a lens of 42mm to ensure good light gathering.

Questions on binoculars or suggestions for this article?

Have we missed out your favourite binoculars or guide, or left you with an unanswered question? Please let us know in the comments section below, or pop us an email. We’ll be sure to reply and may amend the article to include our answer.

What’s Next?

We would be delighted to help you plan a safari holiday, or answer any questions if you’re at an earlier stage. Please just send us an email or give us a call

4 responses to “Best Binoculars For A Safari Holiday”

HOw do we plan a safari for 10 days?

Dear Judith, Your enquiry has been passed on to a safari expert, who will be in touch shortly, Best Regards, Renate

Have a look at Kite Optics, a Belgian brand. The Kite Optics Caiman 8×45 and 10×45 are extremely good price/quality for around 280 Euro. The optics are considered among the best in the World and the quality is great, built in Japan and then finetuned and quality checked in Belgium at the head office.

The mentioned brands are fine, but you pay for the brand name, which is no better than Kite Optics.

[…] As you will need to pack, and carry your own equipment when travelling to and while on safari, the best binoculars will be small, light but powerful. So the best binoculars for safari are a small to midsize pair of binoculars either 8×32 or 8×42 or 10×42 as a maximum size. In a survey of African safari guides, over 80% use 8×42 or 10×42.[1] […]

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13 Things To Do In Saint Petersburg | Russia’s Most Beautiful City

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: January 17, 2021  - Last updated: September 11, 2021

Categories Europe , Destinations , Russia

Once known as Leningrad and before that Petrograd, Saint Petersburg, Russia, is the country’s second-largest city. Set next to the Neva River, close to the Baltic Sea, this city is home to over 5 million people.

It’s the world’s northernmost city, founded by Peter the Great and named after Saint Peter the apostle. Once home to the Tsars of Russia, it is today known as the country’s cultural capital.

With iconic sights such as Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect, Peterhof Palace, and so much more, it has a fascinating heritage ripe for exploration. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best things to do in St. Petersburg. 

Top Things to do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Europe, has grown into one of the top tourist destinations on the continent. Although it might get very cold in winter, there are still plenty of things to do – and the summers are absolutely perfect! Saint Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in all of Europe .

Keep reading for some of my favorite choices. 

1. Visit The World Famous Hermitage Museum

One of the city’s most popular attractions (with over 3 million items in its esteemed collection), State Hermitage Museum showcases everything from fine art to ancient artifacts. 

Even if you don’t plan on entering inside, the exterior is an architectural gem in itself. The columns are all in white with green/gold facades that can be viewed from the river or Palace Square.

If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, your trip would not be complete without stopping past this world-famous landmark. It’s also a great activity to do no matter what time of year you are visiting – and a perfect way to escape those cold Russian winter days. 

There are six buildings in the museum complex in total. Five of which – Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theatre – can be accessed by the public.

Within, you’ll be treated to Egyptian collections, artifacts dating from ancient Mesopotamia, and classical Greek jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. This is any historical culture lover’s dream. 

Keep exploring, and you will find collections of prehistoric relics from the Palaeolithic era to the Iron Ages, European fine arts, Impressionist works, Catherine the Great’s personal collections, and so much more.

In fact, you’ll need an entire day or possibly longer to explore this incredible museum complex. If you only have limited time in St. Petersburg, be sure to add this museum to your itinerary! There are also guided tours available if you want a more educational experience. 

Did you know? The Hermitage Museum is the world’s second-largest art museum.

2. Take in a Performance at Mariinsky Theatre

The Neoclassical Mariinsky Theatre is home to Russia’s revered opera and ballet companies.

The theatre – named after the wife of Tsar Alexandra II, Empress Maria Alexandrovna – has been here since 1860 when it was known as the Kirov Theatre.

This magnificent building, since it opened, has hosted stage performances and premieres from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky and famous ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. 

Today, in addition to hosting live performances, the theatre has its own record label, which focuses on releasing music by Russian composers Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninov.

If you enjoy the arts and are going to be in St. Petersburg for several days, book tickets to see a world-class performance – you won’t be disappointed.

3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum

The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era. 

Today, you can view these iconic collection pieces in the Faberge Museum. It showcases 4,000 items in total, including Faberge Easter eggs, jewelry, silverware, home decor, and fantasy-themed objects.

The incredible jeweled eggs are famous all over the world, and there are several museums dedicated to them. But if you want to learn about Gustav Faberge, his family, and how it all began, this is the museum to visit. You can purchase a ticket in person or online. 

4. Spend an Hour Canal Cruising

St. Petersburg is built on 42 islands, and once upon a time (before bridges were constructed), cruising was the only way to navigate the city.

On a Golden Ring boat tour, you’ll see some of St. Petersburg’s iconic sights along the Kryukov Canal, including St. Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky theatre.

You’ll dip beneath the famous colored bridges on Neva River whilst enjoying views of Peter and Paul Fortress, Vasilyevsky Island, and the Summer Garden. This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to take in all the beauty that St. Petersburg has to offer. 

This tour also only takes around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to revisit your favorite spots throughout the day!

5. Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

One of St. Petersburg’s architectural masterpieces is the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.

This former Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1907 and is built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival design. It is one of the city’s main attractions, with ornate domes, intricate frescoes, and 7,500 square meters of mosaics inside. 

If you don’t wish to enter, you can gain incredible views from Griboedov Canal. But if you do venture inside, you’ll be rewarded with interior frescoes and mosaic works depicting biblical scenes and figures created by celebrated Russian artists of the time.

The Church of the Saviour of Blood is built on the spot where Emperor Alexander 2 was assassinated in 1881 – hence the name. So, not only will you be able to appreciate the fine architectural designs, but also explore an important part of Russian history. 

6. Take a Rooftop Walk-in St. Petersburg

If you have viewed the city from canals and rivers, try it from the rooftops! You can take a guided rooftop walk in the city, seeing streets and skylines from an elevated perspective.

One particular tour to highlight is the Official Rooftops Excursion of St. Petersburg. Just a few minutes from Nevsky Prospect, these sites offer vistas of Fontanka River and Trinity Cathedral – and that’s just the first roof.

The second roof boasts views of St. Petersburg’s old center, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church on Spilled Blood.

This is a truly incredible way to see the city in all its glory, plus the tour provides you with binoculars so you can see everything in great detail.

7. Admire Nevsky Prospect’s Magnificent Architecture

The main street of St. Petersburg is Nevsky Prospect. Begin at the intersection at Stroganov Palace before venturing to Kazan Cathedral. While you walk, take in the monuments dedicated to Catherine the Great and browse goods at The Passage – Nevsky Avenue’s premier department store.

This store was quite the trailblazer. It opened its doors in the late 1840s and was one of the first buildings in Russia to use gas for lighting. Then, in 1900, an electric station was installed on an underground floor.

Once you’ve finished shopping and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, continue to the Russian National Library – the oldest public library in Russia – and Alexandrinsky Theatre (which was built for the Imperial troupe of Petersburg).

8. Visit the Island of Peter and Paul Fortress

Set on an island connected by bridges, Peter and Paul Fortress is instantly recognizable from its needle spire, which dominates the skyline. The fortress was originally built to defend the maritime city from Swedish invaders.

However, Peter the Great defeated the opposition before it was even completed! It has since served as a military center and prison for political dissenters and, latterly, as a museum.

Inside the vast complex, you can see Peter and Paul Cathedral, visit the resting place of the Romanovs, and watch military processions or the firing of the noon-day gun.

It’s a great day trip for anyone interested in Russian, maritime or military history. There are also plenty of group walking tours available. 

9. Sample Russian Vodka in a Ryumochnye

A visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local drink – vodka, and the best place to do this is in a Ryumochnye. This is a specific style of 19th-century Russian drinking house that not only offers some of Russia’s best vodka but also a short history lesson.

You could call it a bar, but it’s more than that – most mainstream Ryumochnye have a definite Soviet vibe and are places for working men to kick back and enjoy vodka with their buddies.

Beverages come in bottles or shot form, and some places offer self-service and snacks.

If that sounds too hardcore for your taste, there are updated versions of Ryumochnye in the city, like Mayak in St. Petersburg, where you can gain a similar experience. 

10. Enjoy local Saint Petersburg Craft Beer

Although most people think of vodka when visiting Russia, you can also enjoy some of the best craft beer in Saint Petersburg . Russia’s second-largest city has an exciting, rapidly growing craft beer scene, in part due to its history and geography.

Historically, the Russian empire was influenced by Northern Europe, and the Dutch & English beer-drinking culture eventually made its way here. Today, Saint Petersburg is home to a growing number of modern microbreweries, cool taprooms, and stylish bars.

Saint Petersburg is also home to Stepan Razin Brewery, the oldest brewery in Russia (now, of course, owned by Heiniken). It opened in 1795, but today the building is known as the Saint Petersburg Beer Museum, showcasing the history of beer in Russia and the Soviet Union.

Russia’s largest and most popular brewery, Baltika, is also located in Saint Petersburg, and it’s possible to take a tour of their huge brewery.

11. See the Majestic Catherine Palace

A stately palace of blue and gold, Catherine’s Palace is located 26 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Named after the wife of Peter the Great, this place was originally a two-story modest building commissioned in 1717.

The exterior, which stretches for one kilometer in circumference, is surrounded by woodlands, lawns, gilded balconies, and reliefs. However, the interiors are even more impressive.

With great halls, a white dining room, an amber room, and more. It’s the perfect place to step back into history and discover what life was like as a Russian aristocracy.

12. Explore Peterhof Palace

If you’re going to visit Catherine Palace, you should tour Peterhof too. It’s a 40-minute drive away, but you can even take a hydrofoil speed boat from right behind the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg center.

Sitting close to the Baltic Sea, Peterhof Palace was constructed by Peter the Great to be Russia’s version of Versailles. The opulent residence surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and tiered staircases leading to the grand entrance evokes mystery and the history of a bygone era.

Inside it is lavishly decorated with dazzling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind artworks and beautiful ceiling frescoes.

On a guided tour, you can learn more about the palace’s history. Discover the Throne Room, Portrait Hall and Peter the Great’s Oak Study. You’ll see dining rooms set for dinner, grand ballrooms where dancing and gatherings would take place, and décor which defies time.

The palace offers great insight into his life and legacy, and if you are interested in history, art and interior design, you’ll love it.

Want to know more about Peterhof?

13. Spend a Day by the Finnish Border at Vyborg

Just over an hour from central Saint Petersburg by train is the city of Vyborg. It sits on the Gulf of Finland and was first settled back in the 12th century. The city has been occupied by Finnish and German forces and suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. However, it has since been rebuilt. 

It’s a charming center to wander around, with narrow cobbled streets, a medieval castle, and Finnish art nouveau structures sprinkled throughout. An easy day trip from St. Petersburg, it can also serve as a stop-off point if you’re crossing into Finland to continue your adventure.

Want to know more about Saint Petersburg?

Where is St. Petersburg | Is St. Petersburg in Europe?

If you want to know “Where is Saint Petersburg?”, you’ve come to the right place. Beautiful St. Petersburg is located in northern Russia. Russia is a massive country, so it is no surprise that many people want to know “Is Saint Petersburg in Europe?”. The answer is yes. 

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

The maritime city is well linked to Europe by air, sea, rail and road. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the rest of your itinerary, you can use one of the following ways to arrive at St. Petersburg.

You can fly into Saint Petersburg through Pulkovo International Airport. There are around 1,100 international flights a week and 1,200 domestic flights operating in and out of the local airport.

Although many flights from European cities to Saint Petersburg are direct, you may have to change flights if flying from further afield.

It’s also possible to travel to St. Petersburg by train. The most popular (and most frequent) routes operate from Moscow, Helsinki, and Tallinn. However, there are options to travel from other areas in central Europe, central Asia, and eastern Europe by rail.

There is a central bus station in Saint Petersburg, with services to and from Moscow, Pskov, Novgorod, Vilnius, Riga , Tallinn and Helsinki. Some of these journeys can be long and arduous.

Therefore, thorough research and choosing the right bus company is important.

Baltic Sea Cruises also operate to St. Petersburg as part of a larger itinerary, and St. Peter Line Ferry sails from Helsinki in Finland and Tallinn in Estonia.

Exploring Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the 5th most populous city in Europe and also a leading tourist destination. Although people sometimes forget about Russia, this city is breathtakingly beautiful and provides plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Now that you know where to go, I hope you have an amazing time in Russia’s most beautiful city.

Friday 19th of January 2018

Thank you! So great review about our St. Petersburg!

What to do in St. Petersburg in 1 day - Probe around the Globe

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] more about the beauty of St. Petersburg from the Unusual […]

Friday 17th of June 2016

Which hostel did you stay at? I am potentially thinking of going to Russia for World Cup 2018 after my World Cup trip to Brazil two years ago. Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities, and so I am very interested in learning more about this city and recommendations from fellow travellers who have been.

Christian L.

I stayed at Soul Kitchen Junior, and I will go so far and say its by far the best hostel I have ever stayed at!! Anywhere in the world, no other hostels even get close to it:)

• United States

65 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in St. Petersburg, Florida

• 52 Pinterest

Nicknamed “The Sunshine City” for its year-round fine weather, St. Petersburg could be one of the best family-friendly places to vacation on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Endowed with gleaming white sands and tranquil clear waters, St Pete Beach is often voted one of the nicest in the country — the perfect place for sunbathing or paddleboarding. Its secluded barrier isles are an ideal place to get away from it all and a trip to its many lush parks and preserves are just some of the best things to do in St. Petersburg .

Explore up to 150 species of palm and cycads, as well as the nearly 500 different plants at Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum. Then, head to St. Pete Pier for the best green space near the sea!

The city has a thriving downtown district with a distinctly bohemian culture and many arts and cultural places to visit, including some of the country’s top museums and galleries.

The nearby cities of Tampa and Clearwater, with their world-famous theme parks and attractions, are always just a stone’s throw away. But what to do first?

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• St Petersburg tours

1 – Be astounded at The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum)

One of the 20th Century’s most genre-defying and vital artists, Salvador Dali’s work was as technically brilliant as it was unique. The Spanish-born artist revolutionized the art world with his surrealistic images and flamboyant personal flair.

The Dali Museum is a collection of thousands of items related to the great artist’s career.  Combining a spectacular purpose-built museum with exhibition areas, gardens, a cafe and a center for the avant-garde, this waterfront gallery is one of the most fun places to visit in St. Petersburg.

The James Family Wing holds the museum’s permanent collection of Dalí works, including 96 paintings created by the artist from 1918 to 1970 as well as holograms, sculptures and a lobster telephone.

2 – Cruise the historic city on a segway tour

Why take a bus tour when you can segway? Cruise the city streets on two wheels with these fun segway tours of historic St. Petersburg. Hit all the best sites, including the Victorian-style homes of the Old Northeast, the Tampa Bay area, and the St. Petersburg Museum of History.

Pick up some history on the area’s most famous residents, including the Native American princess Pocahontas, and see historic sites, including the departure point of the world’s first commercial flight, the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat.

Though they may look tricky to maneuver, segways are suitable for everyone and you’ll get the hang of it in no time. Make the most of your time in St. Petersburg, Florida and explore the city on a fun and lively segway tour.

• segway tours in St. Petersburg

3 – Stroll along the St. Pete Pier

The new recreation center of the city, St. Pete Pier has a lot to discover, from shopping, dining and entertainment to sports and parks you’ll find it all here. Dine in style on the rooftop of Pier Teaki or grab a snack at the Driftwood Cafe.

Cool off from the summer heat at the Splash Pad or stroll around the Benoist Centennial Plaza before relaxing on the Bayfront Health Tilted Lawn, there’s something here for the whole family.

Take in the sea views and that fresh sea air as you check out some of the piers artworks, including the Morning Stars Mosaic, the water-inspired sculpture Olnetopia and the stunning net sculpture Bending Arc.

The pier is sure to be your new favorite place to go in St. Petersburg.

4 – Catch a Rays game at Tropicana Field

Home to the Major League Baseball team, The Tampa Bay Rays, Tropicana Field is a must-visit for sports fans while in St. Petersburg. Commonly referred to as “The Trop” by locals, the stadium is the only indoor venue in Major League Baseball capable of hosting events all year long.

• Tropicana Field tickets

As well as baseball games it has also hosted college basketball, football, and pro hockey tournaments. Some of the world’s biggest stars have also performed here including David Bowie, Janet Jackson and the rock group, Kiss.

Check out a Tampa Bay Rays game or see the website to find out what’s happening at The Trop during your time in St. Petersburg.

• Tampa Bay Rays tickets

5 – Find inspiration at the Museum of Fine Arts

For the avid art enthusiast, there’s one place to visit in the city that will appeal above all else – the Museum of Fine Arts . The permanent collection covers almost 5,000 years of human history and creativity and is represented in thousands of objects in various media.

Visitors can see ceramics and porcelains from all over the globe and the museum features a large collection of decorative arts as well as folk art, artworks from indigenous cultures and ceremonial pieces.

You will also find more traditional works such as paintings, sculptures and prints. It has a rotating program of temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection and hosts a monthly series of lectures, talks and even cinema screenings. Art lovers won’t want to miss this one.

6 – Hike at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

If you would like to make the most of your time in St. Petersburg and explore the very best of the city’s natural landscape, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a great place to start. It is home to the Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Centre which teaches visitors about the many natural marvels of the preserve.

Looking for a peaceful place to camp? The Terry Tomalin Campground offers primitive camping inside the nature preserve as well as organized nature camps and bike tours. This is especially great for young campers who can learn all about the fascinating web of nature and how it functions inside the preserve.

During your visit to Boyd Hill, why not join one of many nature programs. Take a night hike through the park or catch a speaking presentation on the natural history of the area. As well as its wild and unspoiled beauty, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve really has a full season of activities to enjoy.

7 – Soar over Tampa Bay on a helicopter tour

Okay, what could be better than a helicopter tour over St. Petersburg city and Tampa Bay? Enjoy the invigorating thrill of hovering high above the city on one of these unique helicopter cruises.

Take to the skies in an air-conditioned chopper and see the sites in a truly unique way. Glimpse famous landmarks such as St. Pete’s Pier, John’s Pass and Treasure Island as only a few people get to.

You will cruise over the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay and the luxury beachfront resort, Don CeSar. When soaring high above the barrier islands, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other wildlife in the waters below. This is sure to be an experience you will never forget.

• helicopter tours in St. Petersburg

8 – Climb the Weedon Island Preserve observation tower

The huge 3,000-acre Weedon Island Preserve is a must-visit for nature lovers in St. Petersburg. Here you can explore the diverse wetland and upland ecosystems that make up important habitats for local plants and wildlife.

The park has a lot of great routes to hike and almost two miles of boardwalk trails, making it accessible to most people. Visitors can check out the preserve’s education center and even borrow a backpack full of useful trail maps and field guides.

You can follow the boardwalk trail through mangrove forests and tidal streams to the park’s observation tower, which on a clear day provides fantastic views of the preserve as well as Tampa Bay and the city’s of St.Petersburg and Tampa. Why not discover this serene slice of Florida countryside for yourself?

9 – Explore the Chihuly Collection at Morean Arts Center

The Morean Arts Center is a fun and engaging contemporary art space on St. Petersburg’s Central Avenue. It is open daily and puts on a series of art and creative classes, events and parties and also has an artist in residence program.

It houses the first permanent collection of works by American artist, Dale Chihuly in a purpose-built facility. Chihuly is known for his abstract and colorful glass constructions and has pioneered the production methods of elaborate glass artworks during his career. On entering, visitors to the gallery are met with a 20-foot sculpture created specifically for the site.

Admission is free, so why not take a class or explore the artworks during your time in the city. It could just be one of the best cultural things to do in St. Petersburg.

10 – Play and learn at Great Explorations Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for fun and educational things to do with kids in St. Petersburg, stimulate their curiosity at the Great Explorations Children’s Museum . Here they can meet the Explorasaurus and play and discover through interactive games and exhibits.

Try the augmented reality sandbox, where a regular sandbox becomes an entire world with gushing rivers and rocky mountains. Explore the creativity in all of us by imagining what simple tools like a pencil and paper can create.

Great Explorations puts on regular workshops with a focus on environmental topics as well as readings and discussions with authors. It also has a store that sells educational toys, of which 100% of the proceeds go back into the museum. Younger kids are sure to love this!

11 – Spot wildlife at Sawgrass Lake Park

Home to one of the largest Maple swamps on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sawgrass Lake Park is a haven for local and migratory wildlife. The park is home to many species of birds, including egrets, ibis, herons, and a few reptiles too, such as native turtles and alligators.

It is a popular stop for migrating birds in the spring and fall seasons and, as such, the park attracts a large number of bird spotters who are eager to catch a glimpse of rare wildlife.  It is also an ideal place to see plants and colorful butterflies in their natural habitats.

Why not bring some snacks and make use of the picnic shelter and barbecue facilities after taking a stroll along the boardwalk nature trail and enjoying the sights. Sawgrass Lake Park surely has something for everyone.

12 – Visit the Florida Holocaust Museum

Dedicated to remembering the millions of murdered men, women and children, Florida’s Holocaust Museum is one of the largest of its type in the country. It houses both permanent and temporary exhibitions and is a vital resource for learning about the horrors of the holocaust and the levels of persecution European Jewish people faced.

The museum was founded in 1992 by Walter P. Loebenberg, a local businessman and philanthropist. Loebenberg himself escaped Nazi Germany for Florida and then joined the United States Armed Forces to serve in World War II.

The poignant exhibitions include one of the few surviving boxcars which were used by the Nazis to transport Jews and political prisoners to the death camps of Auschwitz and Treblinka. It also keeps an archive of video interviews with holocaust survivors as an integral memento for future generations.

13 – Beat the clock in an escape room

One of the most fun things to do in St. Petersburg, for those who like thrills, puzzles and games in equal measure, is to try an escape room challenge! Gather together your team of friends and family and test your powers of deduction and problem-solving in one of these themed games.

Think outside the box as you solve problems and gather clues in these immersive adventure games. You’ll have to work together to make sure you crack all the puzzles in time and escape the room.

Outerlife Studios is one of the city’s premier escape rooms and allows visitors to choose from themed experiences and settings, including a superhero’s headquarters, a locked apartment with a ticking time bomb or a building set to burn. Will you complete the challenge in time?

• escape rooms in St. Petersburg

14 – Relax under the trees at North Straub Park

If the Florida sun is proving too much for you, why not take a stroll down to North Straub Park. Located on the bayfront between St. Pete’s Pier and 5th ave NE, the park has plenty of shady trees to lounge under, including some big old banyan trees with an unusual-looking aerial root system.

The park has plenty of shaded walkways so it’s the ideal place to go for a refreshing stroll in the cool ocean breeze. It also offers stunning views of the north shore and Tampa Bay and you can take a seat right on the waterfront to check out the yachts in the harbor.

Your four-legged friend needn’t miss out either as North Straub Park has a dedicated dog park and keep your eyes and ears open for year-round events and live music occurring on its permanent stage area.

15 – See gopher tortoises at Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge

Stuck out on its own in the mouth of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key has been an important ecological preserve since 1974. The island’s strategic position means it has played a major role in many domestic wars and includes the remains of Fort Dade as well as a 100-year-old lighthouse.

It is now an important nesting site for sea turtles, tortoises and hundreds of thousands of sea birds. A visitor favorite on the island is its large colony of gopher tortoises who definitely aren’t shy of people and can be seen trudging around the pathways and roads of Egmont Key State Park. Brown Pelicans are also a common sight in the area with over 600 of the birds calling the island home.

Egmont Key will be one of the most interesting things to do for nature and history lovers in St. Petersburg. Visitors can check out the historic Fort Dade and its large coastal gun battery, Battery McIntosh and the remains of Battery Burchsted, which now floats just off the island.

16 – Get your tickets to the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg

Taking place every March is the event of the year for car lovers in Florida – the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg !

Head down for a racing good time, witnessing the premier racing series of North America, as you learn about the seasoned drivers, and see some of the new talents on the race car scene. Experience one of the most beloved sports in the U.S.!

Do some celebrity spotting while you’re in attendance, and check out the other tons of fun available at the event. Listen to the live entertainment, participate in interactive and race car-themed games, and so much more!

Chill out a bit after the fun at the Speed Zone, or better yet, get to the Beer Gardens for a proper refreshment. Don’t leave without getting your driver’s autograph!

• Grand Prix of St. Petersburg tickets

17 – Go fishing at Skyway Fishing Pier State Park

St.Petersburg is home to a very unique and cool fishing spot in the shadow of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge which spans Tampa Bay. When the Sunshine Skyway was built in the mid-1980s, the old bay bridge was left in place and quickly became popular with local anglers.

It is now considered the world’s longest fishing pier and gives fishermen unrestricted access to the deeper bay waters. What’s better still is that you can drive your car right up to your favorite fishing spot, pretty neat!

You can catch a wide selection of fish here. Common varieties caught at the pier include grouper, Spanish mackerel, red snapper and black sea bass and the bridge is even lit up after dark so you can fish late into the evening.

18 – Check out The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

Yeehaw! The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art is enough to make even the most skeptical of souls feel patriotic. Its collection features contemporary works, mostly created since the 1980s and includes, paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more.

Many of the themes include historical subjects and recently the museum has focused on a selection of works by living Native American artists. It has separate exhibition spaces devoted to the early west, native life, western frontier and wildlife among others.

The collection of jewelry produced by Native American artists is particularly stunning as well as the diverse and dynamic sculptures depicting powerful images of the old west. Definitely check this museum out during your time in St. Petersburg and renew your appreciation for the good ol’ US of A.

19 – Go kayaking at St. Pete Beach

Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the United States, St Pete’s Beach really has it all. Pure and soft white sands, turquoise water and a relaxed and laid-back vibe, what more could you need?

St Pete’s Beach is a great place for families to relax with the calm gentle gulf waters which are perfect for bathing, and action is just a step away. With fun sports to try right here on the beach such as snorkeling, kayaking and standup paddleboarding there’s enough to amuse those who just can’t sit still.

The beach is located just 10 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg, so you’re never far from the lively city center. Hit the beachfront bars and restaurants to try out the best fresh seafood dishes or stroll along the waterfront at sunset to experience the best of this low-key beach town.

• kayaking in St. Petersburg

20 – Take a boat out from Demens Landing Park

Another of the city’s fantastic waterfront green spaces, Demens Landing Park occupies the space which was formerly the city’s first railway pier. It is named after its creator, Peter Demens.

Laying directly on the waterfront between the Central and South Yacht Basins and in close distance to the AI Lang Stadium and Saturday Morning Market, this park is in the most bustling part of the city’s harbor. It has plenty of benches to sit and relax on as well as large green spaces if you want to throw a frisbee around.

If you plan to venture out onto the water while in the city, the park is a good launch point and has a boat ramp that is available for use. There are also picnic benches and public restrooms. This centrally located park is a great place to visit and soak up the atmosphere.

21 – Explore the Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum

It’s hard to believe that the lush 2-acre tropical gardens of Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum were a mini-golf course not so long ago. This beautiful collection of exotic palms is well worth a visit during your time in the city.

The transformation began in 1976 after a donation of 60 palms of ten different species was gifted by longtime palm admirer, Miss Gizelle Kopsick. The Arboretum was dedicated to Miss Kopsick one year later to celebrate her 100th Birthday.

Over nearly 50 years, the collection has grown to include 150 species of palm and cycads and 500 individual plants. The arboretum is wheelchair accessible and as part of St. Petersburg’s city parks, is free admission.

You’ll never have to go far to find amazing history here, and the Jungle Prada Site is a particularly compelling spot.

After all, it was here that some of Florida’s earliest residents made their homes!

22 – Learn some unique stories on the Jungle Prada Site history tour

The Tocobaga tribe was a major influence in the region for centuries, and some of their ceremonial mounds are still intact today.

You’ll get to see these remarkable constructions up close, and spend some quality time exploring the remnants of their daily lives, as well as the impact of Spanish colonization in the 1500s.

You’ll even be able to look at many of the items used by those long-gone locals!

• Parasailing in St. Petersburg

23 – See amazing Contemporary glass art at Imagine Museum

The newly opened Imagine Museum is one of the first institutions dedicated solely to contemporary glass art in the US. Its collection includes over 1,500 pieces from all over the world as well as a core collection of 500 American studio glass artworks.

This inspiring museum is sure to uplift everyone who visits as it stretches our concept of the applications of glass as a material. The unique pieces collected here display the ingenuity of the individual artists and the wide range of techniques applied in the modern studio glass scene.

The museum displays both permanent and temporary exhibitions and visitors can opt to join a tour of the gallery to gain a deeper insight into the artworks on display. This is a must-see for art lovers but the pieces on display have a diverse appeal that will be fascinating and beautiful to most people.

Definitely check this out.

• Imagine Museum tickets

24 – Cycle the Pinellas Trail

Whatever your preferred way to explore outdoors, be it jogging, walking, cycling or skating — you are bound to enjoy the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail. The trail starts in St. Petersburg and runs all the way to Tarpon Springs, covering a distance of 50 miles.

The trail runs through a number of towns on the way including South Pasadena, Palm Harbor and Clearwater. This unique and level passageway used to be the route of the Atlantic Coast Line and Seaboard Air Line Railroads which were abandoned in the 1980s.

Why not take a bike tour of the city to learn a little more about its history and the best places to cycle and walk. The Pinellas Trail has some super-scenic stops to visit along the way including Honeymoon Island near Dunedin and Wall Springs Park in Palm Harbor.

• bike tours in St. Petersburg

25 – Sunbathe at Fort De Soto Park

Pinellas County’s largest public park, Fort De Soto Park covers over 1,100 acres and has a huge amount of things to see and do.

The park is spread out over five islands sitting in the mouth of Tampa Bay and features coastal areas, wetlands, forests and meadows, as well as one of the region’s finest beaches. You’ll find plenty here to explore.

Wildlife lovers can spend the day spotting the wide variety of creatures that live in the area. Since the 1960s, 328 species of bird have been documented in the park. Visitors can hike over six miles of trails that stretch between both coasts and past the historic fort.

The park also has over seven miles of waterfront, almost half of which is blanketed with white sandy beaches, two fishing piers and a canoe trail. With two large swim centers, picnic areas and campgrounds, as well as the Quartermaster Museum, you’ll definitely fall in love with Fort De Soto Park.

26 – Spot manatees at Coffee Pot Bayou

The scenic waterfront road, Coffee Pot Boulevard, which skirts by Coffee Pot Bayou has picturesque views of Snell Isle and could be one of the most enchanting spots in St. Petersburg for a stroll.

The Bayou is a great year-round place to spot manatees but especially in the cooler months of the year when the water remains warmer than the surrounding Gulf of Mexico.

The area has charming old waterfront homes with European and Spanish designs and cool tree-lined avenues to explore. The walk over Snell Isle Bridge offers nice views of the historical Renaissance Vinoy Resort and the upmarket neighborhood of Snell Isle.

27 – Pet an alligator at Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center

Ever wanted to get up close to an alligator? Well now’s your chance! The Alligator and Wildlife Discovery Center allows visitors to do just that, you can even kiss one if you really want to?!

The center offers shelter and rehabilitation to surrendered gators that were bought as pets and outgrew their homes. Visitors get the unique opportunity to see alligators up close and pet and hold them under careful supervision.

Though the primary draw of the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center is going to be alligators, there are also plenty of other creatures to get up close to. The center is home to a bunch of unusual and interesting residents including fish, snakes, skunks, lizards, pigs and more.

Don’t forget to show them some love!

28 – Treat yourself to a Yacht dinner cruise

Time to treat yourself like a rock star – with the perfect watercraft to match! Yachts are the perfect way to enjoy this beautiful region, taking you on a luxurious trip around the Gulf.

Live music will add a little extra pizzazz to the trip, as you gaze out at all of the breathtaking views around you. And it’s an especially lovely option in the evenings, when the vivid sunset forms a backdrop like no other.

As an added bonus, there are optional dining packages that offer up some of the finest meals in town for you to savor – and the perfect nautical venue!

• Dinners in St. Petersburg

29 –  Bike around Maximo Park

Located on Boca Ciega Bay, Maximo Park is both a beautiful waterfront park and also an important archeological site in the city. For thousands of years, the park was home to indigenous American people who fished and lived on these shores. There is information throughout the park about the tribes that once settled here.

Why not take some time to rest under the shady trees and play a game of Tocobaga Disc golf on the specially built 18-hole course. Explore the boardwalk trails and climb the 50-foot observation tower to glimpse some amazing panoramic views of the park.

For the keen fisherman, the park has seven boat ramps giving access to the bay water as well as shoreline fishing areas for those who prefer it. There is also a large selection of picnic shelters available and two playgrounds which is sure to keep the kids entertained.

Maximo Park has something for everyone.

30 – Climb aboard a family-friendly pirate ship

Hoist the sails, don the eyepatch, and get ready for an adventure above the towering Royal Conquest pirate ship! Setting sail from Madeira Beach on Gulf Boulevard (just a short drive north of Treasure Island and St Pete Beach), this stunning vessel promises an amazing day out on the Gulf of Mexico waters for kids and adults alike.

The youngsters can compete in limbo contests, work up a sweat during a little dance party, or cool off in a squirt gun battle — the crew runs interactive activities throughout the 90-minute journey, sure to keep the little ones occupied.

As for the big kids (read: adults), things get even more exciting with the free onboard beer and wine. With several departure times throughout the day (11 am, 1.30 pm, 4.30 pm and 7 pm), you can squeeze it in regardless of your schedule! But ask any former swashbuckling traveler and they’ll attest: the sunset ride is hard to beat.

• pirate ship cruises in St. Petersburg

31 – Camp at Shell Key Preserve

Part of the reason people return to St. Petersburg year after year is for the abundance of unspoiled natural environments it offers, Shell Key Preserve is one such place. An important habitat for nesting birds, Shell Key Preserve includes one of Florida’s biggest areas of undeveloped barrier Islands.

The center of the reserve is a protected area, so not accessible to visitors, but the outer edges have overnight camping facilities which offer the perfect place to really get away from it all. Sleep out under the stars to the sound of the sea lapping the shore and the gentle cry of birds. Paradise!

The Preserve is a great place for wildlife spotting and is a nesting site for sea turtles. Besides turtles, visitors may be lucky enough to spot starfish and fiddler crabs as well as egrets, spoonbills and plovers. Shell Key Preserve is accessible only by boat so plan ahead. Its beautiful beaches are waiting.

32 – Ride the Iron Gwazi at Bush Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens hardly needs any introduction. This Tampa Theme Park and Zoo has been entertaining visitors for over 60 years with its thrilling white-knuckle rides and attractions. Its newest ride, Iron Gwazi, is the tallest hybrid roller coaster in North America as well as the fastest and steepest in the world.

If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can choose from 25+  nausea-inducing roller coasters that will spin you every which way around. For those that like the more sedate life, take a safari ride and view some of the park’s 200 species of animals, including rhinos, elephants and gorillas.

After a busy day of thrills and spills why not take in some live family entertainment. Busch Gardens has jaw-dropping ice skating extravaganzas, storytime shows for kids, and live music by No.1 tribute bands. A day at Busch Gardens is one of the most action-packed things to do in St. Petersburg and is something the whole family will love.

• Bush Gardens tickets

33 – Pay your respects at War Veterans Memorial Park

The sight of a Walker Bulldog tank may not be the most reassuring thing to see in a park but War Veterans Memorial Park is dedicated to honoring the memory of its Military Veterans.

The park has five dedications, one for each branch of the United States Armed Forces. It also has a battlefield cross monument dedicated to the 18 local members of the armed forces who died in the Gulf War.

The park has some nature trails to explore as well as a playground for the kids and even a boat ramp. Check it out while you’re in the area.

Fun fact! The Bulldog tank you see on entering the park is actually a four-man tank from the Korean War era and was built by Cadillac!

34 – Explore the colorful world of Fairgrounds St. Pete

Those expecting Ferris wheels and funhouses won’t be disappointed for long. Fairgrounds St. Pete is an immersive and explorable art and technology exhibition that is a collaboration of 60 artists. It’s a very unique attraction and you won’t find anything like this elsewhere in the state of Florida.

The perfect place to escape reality, even if just for a while, this playful self-contained world has exhibits based on the weird and wonderful stories and history of the region. It allows you to choose your own interaction and offers visitors multiple ways to engage.

This colorful and abstract world will draw you into its narrative, divulging small chunks of information piece by piece until you are hooked. You may find yourself returning to Fairgrounds St. Pete again and again.

35 – Unwind (with a drink in hand) on a tiki boat!

Bringing the laid-back vibe of the tropics to Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tiki Boat tours are all about the open-air party lifestyle.

Each tour runs for between 90 minutes and two hours and is fully equipped with a sound system, coolers and a licensed captain — so all you need to do is BYO food, drinks, and party hats (even if they’re metaphorical), and you’ll be all set.

Whether it’s a birthday, bachelor party, or even something as simple as a family outing on the water, these quirky vessels promise a great couple hours on the later (especially if you set sail in the late afternoon, in time to catch a sunset).

• tiki boat cruises in St. Petersburg

36 – Crack up with the stand-up talent at Spitfire Comedy House

From sketch, stand-up, and improv, enjoy the different comedic stylings of St. Petersburg’s local comedians as well as national ones at the Spitfire Comedy House !

The shows are typically held Friday-Saturday nights, with some shows taking place on Thursdays and Sundays as well, making it the perfect activity to do in St. Petersburg!

Enjoy a variety of shows, from a 40s-style murder mystery improv musical to a freeform comedy showcase, and interactive comedy shows where the audience participates!

If you’re feeling up for it afterward, you can ask about the improv comedy classes that the club offers to build up your own comedy chops!

With a seating capacity of up to 40 people, enjoy the shows in a small group setting. Children can attend, but it is held at the discretion of parents.

37 – Discover handmade beauty at the Museum of the American Arts & Crafts Movement

If you need the inspiration to take up a craft, this is where you’ll find it. Step into a showcase of some of America’s best arts, pottery, textiles and more at the Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement .

This unique museum is dedicated to the movement that spread across America in the late 1800s and early 1900s, as more people turned to creating their own crafted pieces in retaliation against the mass-produced items of the industrial era.

It features over 2,000 items in a stunning gallery that includes a restaurant, cafe and a children’s gallery that will entertain the kids. Admire the furniture, lighting, photography, tiles and jewelry that Americans created and expressed themselves through.

Located in downtown St. Petersburg, the Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement will take you on a journey through the beauty of everything handmade.

38 – Start your weekend with a bang at St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market

One of the most fun things to do in St. Petersburg on a weekend is to drop by the Saturday Morning Market . Start your day the right way with freshly cooked food, locally farmed groceries and live music.

With over 120 vendors on site selling everything from fresh vegetables, meats and cheeses, teas and coffees and even artisan vegan popsicles, you know you’ll find something here you’re gonna love. The market also has stalls selling freshly cooked international dishes so you better bring your appetite.

Pick up some jewelry from one of the artisan craft stalls or choose some locally produced chocolates as a souvenir of your time in St. Petersburg. A trip to the Saturday Morning Market is a must-do thing while in the city and you can find it opposite Pioneer Park and a stone’s throw from Demen’s Landing.

39 – Spot dolphins at play on a boat tour

The calm waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast offer some of the country’s best conditions for boating. The gentle currents and clear green waters, which are lit up by year-round sparkling sunshine, may make you feel like you’ve found paradise on Earth.

One of the most fun things to do in St. Petersburg is to take a boat tour of the surrounding coastline. There are so many different tours to try that there is bound to be something to suit your tastes. Are you an adventurous speedboat kind of traveler, or a laid-back tiki bar boat kind of person?

Maybe you want to explore under your own steam on a kayak or go out to the deeper waters to spot dolphins playing in the surf? There are so many options you are really spoiled for choice.

Simply choose your departure point, whether from St. Petersburg, Tampa or nearby Clearwater and then enjoy the cruise. This is what St. Pete’s vacays are all about!

• dolphin watching in St. Petersburg

40 – Watch the sunset at Albert Whitted Park

With its privileged position at the southern end of St. Petersburg’s downtown seafront district, Albert Whitted Park has uninterrupted views of those spectacular Florida sunsets. The park is located near the airport and has an airplane-themed children’s playground.

It gained its name from the man who brought commercial aviation to the city in the early 1900s. With beautiful views of the yacht marina as well as some of the city’s most attractive buildings, including The Dalí Museum and Mahaffey Theater, this quiet park is a great place to just kick back and relax.

On busier days it’s a good place to watch the city’s Firestone Grand Prix or catch sight of old-fashioned biplanes taking off and landing at the nearby waterfront airport.

41 – Set sail on a magical sunset cruise

Relaxing, beautiful, and oh-so-very romantic, a St. Pete’s sunset cruise sells itself as the perfect way to end a long day of Florida sightseeing.

Hop aboard a luxurious yacht and take in some of the most incredible views St. Petersburg has to offer — from its striking buildings and sandy shorelines, to the colorfully illuminated Skyway Bridge.

With several companies offering these trips — whether it’s with a group of fellow travelers on a 45-foot modern catamaran or a private charter in an intimate sailboat — you can choose an evening cruise that suits your schedule (and budget).

And for something extra special, there are companies who make a point of venturing into high-traffic dolphin areas!

• sunset cruises in St. Petersburg

42 – See the baseball collection at the St. Petersburg Museum of History

It may seem like a dubious title but St. Petersburg’s Museum of History is home to the world’s largest collection of autographed baseballs. It has 4,999 signed baseballs in its collection, including balls autographed by four US Presidents and even Fidel Castro.

Why not 5,000 you ask? The plan is for Hollywood legend, Tom Hanks, to sign the 5,000th baseball when pandemic measures allow it. More than just a baseball collection though, the museum uses these autographed trophies to tell key moments in the country’s history and tell the story of modern American achievements.

There is even a baseball signed by the first man on the moon, Neil Armstrong, how is that for iconic! The museum also has an archive of thousands of photos and over 30,000 artifacts in its collection. Take a look around this fascinating museum during your time in the city.

43 – Float between sky and sea on a parasailing trip

If you happen to be strolling around Madeira Beach, you might spot something unusual: floating humans! But don’t worry, this is no apparition; it’s just some folks enjoying a bit of parasailing… and trust us, you’ll soon want to join them!

After all, it isn’t every day that you can get strapped to a giant parachute and hover above the surface of the sea!

Go by yourself or a couple of travel buddies, and embark on an unforgettable journey that lets you briefly experience a true bird’s eye view of your surroundings.

With an expert captain driving the boat and the wind as your co-pilot, you can enjoy your bit of sky time!

44 – Drive the Sunshine Skyway Bridge

While in St. Petersburg you have to take a cruise over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge to see the exceptional views of Tampa Bay and the nearby cities.

Constructed in the late-1980s to cross Tampa Bay, after the old bridge was badly damaged and collapsed, the current Sunshine Skyway Bridge spans from St. Petersburg South to the north of Terra Ceia. The bridge extends for over 4 miles and at places is towers 190 feet above the water to give the necessary clearance for boats traveling beneath it.

This iconic sight on the Tampa Bay skyline is the second bridge on the site to be named the Sunshine Skyway, the first one was built in the 1960s. Why not take an aerial tour of the bay to and get see the bridge from above? Join a helicopter or light aircraft tour for a unique tour you’ll never forget.

Tip: Be sure to stop by in the evening to enjoy the spectacular Skyway light show !

45 – Be amazed by glass art at Duncan McClellan Gallery

St. Petersburg is the place to be for glass art. The Duncan McClellan Gallery is another of the city’s major exhibitions of studio glass and it resides in the most unlikely of places.

Based in a former fish and tomato packing facility, its 7,800 square feet of exhibition space displays work by some of the leading internationally known glass artists. Be sure to stop by the hot shop to watch some artisans creating their latest masterpieces!

An intrinsic part of the St. Pete art community, the Gallery is located in the center of the city’s Warehouse Art District. It houses work by dozens of artists and hosts regular exhibitions of contemporary glass art.

46 – Soak up the Florida sun on a boat tour

Enjoy the sunset views from the Gulf of Mexico, as you board the St. Petersburg, Florida: Sunset and Skyway Lights Boat Tour. See as the golden sun sets behind the water, and the lights of the Skyway Bridge begin as you enjoy fresh fruit and refreshments.

The S. Saint Petersburg Pier to Egmont Key Cruise is a 60-minute ferry ride to the stunning Egmont Key. Enjoy views of the turquoise waters, and nature around. Once at Egmont Key, you’ll enjoy 2 hours on its shores to explore the historic lighthouse, nature, and wildlife.

And of course, no Floridian trip would be complete without a few dolphin-watching cruises, where you can keep an eye out for energetic pods at play!

• boat tours in St. Petersburg

47 – Take a run in Vinoy Park

In a perfect position looking out over Tampa Bay, Vinoy Park is one of the city’s most visited attractions. It hosts some of the city’s major outdoor shows like the Tampa Bay Blues and Reggae Rise Up music festivals, The Festivals of Speed Car Show and food fests throughout the year.

featuring lengthy trails throughout, it’s an ideal place to walk or cycle and if you’re looking for somewhere to take your morning run, this place can’t be beaten. The cool breezes blowing in off the bay and sea views are sure to give you all the inspiration you need to get outside and run.

48 – Cruise the bay on a jet boat

A surefire way to see bottlenose dolphins in Tampa Bay is to take a ride on the Dolphin Racer speedboat . Cruise the beaches and waterways of the Gulf Coast on these thrilling and fun adventure rides.

The local population of bottlenose dolphins are a curious bunch and are drawn to the Dolphin Racer as it powers through the bay. They love to play and surf in the boats wake and jump alongside to catch a glimpse of the people onboard.

The trips last for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours and features narration from the team members. The crew is so confident that you will spot dolphins that they even offer a free ride to those who don’t. What are you waiting for?

• Speed boat in St Petersburg

49 – Explore the lush and tranquil Sunken Gardens

A tropical paradise in the middle of the city, The Sunken Gardens has been wowing visitors to the area for 100 years. It contains some of the best established tropical plants in the region and its collection includes 50,000 specimens including plants, flowers and grasses.

This tropical wonderland was created as a hobby garden by a local plumber in the early 1900s on a six-acre piece of land that formerly held a lake. The rich and fertile soil of the lake bed made the perfect environment for The Sunken Gardens botanical collection.

Visitors can explore its landscaped miniature waterfalls and flowing ponds and see the gardens flock of pink Florida flamingos. Visiting this secret garden in the midst of the busy city might be one of the most invigorating things to do in St. Petersburg and is sure to be a big hit with nature lovers.

50 – Shop, eat and relax at John’s Pass presented by Nathan Shirk Realty

If you’re looking for a one-stop destination for shopping, dining and entertainment in St. Petersburg, John’s Pass will likely fit the bill. With stores selling everything from clothing, apparel and jewelry to sweets, collectibles and Cuban cigars, there’s a lot to see here.

Take a family tour with lunch on the triple decked ship, Calypso Breeze , or board a tiki bar boat for a relaxing booze cruise around the bay. Try your hand at fishing or visit Splash Harbor Water Park for a wild afternoon on the slides.

Afterward, hit up one of the cafes or restaurants to grab a bite to eat and an invigorating coffee or cold beer. The choices are huge and you’re sure to find great fresh seafood, tasty grill and barbecue dishes and all your fast food favorites.

51 – See a live show at Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater

On the downtown waterfront within a stone’s throw of The Dalí and the Museum of Fine Arts is one of the city’s largest and finest performing arts venues. The Mahaffey Theater opened its doors in 1965 and has been the place to go in St. Pete for live performances of all types.

Now known as The Duke Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater hosts, on any given week, orchestral concerts, Broadway musicals and plays, stand-up comedy shows and touring live bands. Its position at the heart of the city’s waterfront makes it a beautiful venue to visit at any time of the year.

• The Duke Energy Center for the Arts tickets

52 – Revel at the bungalows and landscapes at Historic Kenwood

Step back over 100 years just a few minutes from Downtown St. Petersburg. Historic Kenwood is a charming neighborhood with bungalows built in the 1920s when real estate in Florida first flourished.

Stroll along brick sidewalks and imagine the old times, as you admire their well-kept landscapes and rows of trees lining the streets. You can time your visit during the Bungalow Fest in November when the homeowners open their doors and give tours to visitors.

See amazing gardens and get some inspiration, while checking out independent locally-owned coffee shops, restaurants, bars and boutique stores. This eclectic place has something for everyone — even for your furry friend like The Dog Bar . If you want to fully experience the vibe of Historic Kenwood, you can stay for a night or more at the art deco Avalon Hotel less than a two-minute drive from the neighborhood.

Hollander Hotel is also highly recommended and has over 20 craft beers and delicious cuisine to indulge yourself in at the Tap Room and Grill. Courtyard St. Petersburg Downtown is a historic hotel with modern amenities that is sure to tick all the boxes.

53 – Pick your aperitivo at Mazzaro’s Italian Market

Mazzaro’s started out as a coffee roasting business nearly 30 years ago and soon became the locals’ go-to place for anything Italian — stopping by here is one of the essential things to do in St. Petersburg and you won’t leave empty-handed for sure.

This Italian deli has got everything you need to satisfy your Mediterranean cravings such as coffee, wine, cured meats, cheeses, handmade pasta, pizza, bread, pastries, gelato and many more!

Mazzaro’s cellars include the largest selection of Italian wines in Florida. Not sure which wine to bring home? Join one of the free wine tasting sessions every Friday and Saturday lunchtime and get top recommendations from the staff.

54 – Scour the city on a scavenger hunt

Looking for a fun way to explore the city? Why not try a scavenger hunt to discover the best of St. Petersburg’s highlights. Gather together your team and hit the streets for a unique self-guided game experience.

This activity takes the tourist experience to the next level, turning the whole town into a treasure map of knowledge.

Simply download the app and follow clues and directions to locations around the city. Here you will have to use your eyes and intuition to answer trivia questions and solve puzzles. Uncover the history of the city, explore at your own pace and enjoy working together in these light-hearted and informative challenges.

• scavenger games in St. Petersburg

55 – Shop retro at ARTpool Gallery – Vintage Clothing Boutique & Vinyl Record Store

If you love to shop for vintage, retro and kitsch items, you’re gonna love ARTpool . This independent gallery, clothing boutique and record store is one of the most fun places to visit in the city to pick up those pre-loved gems from a bygone era.

The gallery portion is not restricted to paintings and prints but reflects the eclectic tastes of its owners. In fact, you may find something here that is so unique it defies explanation. The vinyl record store is a great complement to the vintage clothing on offer and will appeal to the crate diggers and record enthusiasts.

ARTpool hosts regular creative get-togethers and a monthly independent craft market. Beware though, you may come out with something fun and frivolous which you didn’t expect.

56 – Take in a show at Jannus Live

Music enthusiasts, rejoice!

This beloved venue, which opened in 1984, hosts an endless array of concerts, from the large to the up-and-coming and everything in between.

And in true Floridian fashion, it’s all outdoors, letting you breathe in that nice, warm air as you jam out to new and old favorites.

2,000 people can celebrate together here on any given night, but be aware that it is standing room only.

Heck, you might even catch a new DJ or other performer!

• Jannus Live tickets

57 – See rescued otters at St. Petersburg’s aquariums

If you toured the bays and beaches of the region and want to see its most spectacular sea creatures up close, St. Pete has some excellent aquariums to visit.

See rescued native sea creatures at Clearwater Marine Aquarium , including dolphins, sharks, sea turtles and pelicans. Many of the creatures here were in some way injured and cannot be returned to the wild but are well looked after in purpose-built habitats. The aquarium also has freshwater creatures such as its adorable river otters, Walle and Boomer.

The area’s other large facility, The Florida Aquarium , has some fascinating exhibits with native and exotic wildlife habitats. Visit the jungles of Madagascar to see lemurs and tomato frogs, then go deep beneath the sea to witness the elegant dance of the moon jellyfish.

58 – Tour the best craft breweries

After a long day of exploring and beachcombing, you might just be in the mood to check out some of the city’s best craft brews — and where better to go than straight to the source.

3 Daughters Brewery is a great place to start. Sample some of its fruity IPA’s flavored with Florida oranges, mango and watermelon. It also does some more traditional blonde ales, red ales and porters and has a bar with over 40 brews on tap.

For a selection of great beers and whiskies paired with hearty barbecue dishes, URBAN Brew and BBQ is the place to go. This Central Avenue restaurant is family and dog friendly and has a laid-back and relaxed ambiance. This is a great place for bourbon and whisky lovers with a large selection to choose from.

The Cider Press Cafe has a good choice of local and international beers, wines and ciders and also serves up a wide selection of light lunches and snacks. It is a good centrally located place to pick up beers and wines to go.

59 – Experience exciting flavors at the locals’ favorite restaurants

Satisfying your taste buds is part of the deal when you’re in town. Make sure to try some of the best restaurants and their unique and modern take on the traditional cuisine highlighting local ingredients —  including, of course, the best fresh seafood.

Head to Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Jungle Terrace to enjoy an incredible assortment of seafood and traditional Caribbean cuisine – plus some excellent beverages, of course!

Craving for a home-cooked meal? Famous for its fried chicken, PoFolks Restaurant is known for homestyle Southern cooking whether you want vegetables, catfish or barbecue grilled dishes. Give in to your cravings for fish, steak or chicken in its “all you can eat” on Fridays and weekends.

For classic Mexican dishes and cocktails, Red Mesa Cantina has fantastic traditional dishes and a wide selection of tequila. Taste the Shrimp Los Cabos served with avocado, cilantro, sweet tomato cocktail sauce and fresh tortilla chips. Dine next to the fountain in its outdoor courtyard and enjoy the delightful flavors this family-owned restaurant has to offer.

A local favorite, Bodega on Central is a “hole in the wall” known for its Cuban sandwiches and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Locals also recommend its delicious platters which you can diversify according to your preference (including vegan and vegetarian options). Check out the “Frita of the Month”, a Cuban-style hefty burger with exciting toppings.

60 – Take a trolley pub crawl

If you want to sample the St. Pete nightlife, you should definitely try a pub crawl of the city’s best pubs and bars. You could walk, or you could hop on to one of the city’s fun and rowdy trolley tours.

Join other party-goers to pedal your way around the city, stopping at the best drinking holes on the way. Pick up a little history from your trolley captain and best of all, don’t worry about driving.

It’s a wonderful way to make new friends, and get a taste of how and where the locals like to party!

• pub crawls in St. Petersburg

61 – Huck some blades at Hatchet Hangout

Raise your blade and keep your eye on the target – ax throwing is serious business at Hatchet Hangout !

Ok, technically it’s entertaining business; after all, the most important part of this activity is having as much fun as possible with your family and friends.

But let’s face it, the element of competition is equally important, as you duke it out to see who can hit the most bullseyes.

And while the prospect of flinging blades around might seem daunting, this low-key venue is focused on safety as much as fun, with friendly staff standing by to show you the best techniques.

After that, you just have to channel your inner lumberjack and perfect your aim!

62 – Have a drink in the best rooftop bars

Where better to while away those sunny Florida evenings than in the city’s best rooftop bars. Enjoy the sunset over a cold beer or cocktail and start your evening the right way.

360 Rooftop Lounge , located atop Hotel Zamora, is a popular choice for beverages thanks to its namesake views, with the Gulf of Mexico perfectly laid out in front of you.

Some of the city’s other great rooftop bars include Pier Teaki , at the end of the 2nd Ave NE Pier, Level 11 over at St. Pete Beach and The Cambria Hotel at Madeira Beach. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll be greeted with beautiful sea views to make an evening worth remembering.

63 – Play an infinite number of games at Laser Ops

Space battles, archery, and Pac-Man… oh my!

Laser Ops is an electronic wonderland that is the place to go for endless hours of fun, with electronic games and immersive activities that span the breadth and depth of arcade history.

Along with classic games and some incredible VR experiences, you can dive into some wonderfully nerdy sporting endeavors.

Take a crack at post-apocalyptic combat with laser tag, where you’ll weave your way through 8,000 square feet of wasteland and try to outwit your rivals.

Or set your sights on some very different targets with a round of Archery Tag, where you’ll channel your inner Robin Hood and fire arrows at each other – foam ones, of course.

And don’t miss the rowdy fun of Bazooka Ball, a hybrid option where you fire orbs from air cannons – or run around trying to avoid them!

64 – Enjoy all the fun for hours at the Historic Manhattan Casino

Step in for a fun time at the Historic Manhattan Casino, located in the lively Grand Central District. Historically known as a meeting space since the mid-20s, the casino has been renovated to reflect modern times while maintaining its community and history intact.

Check out the many things to do inside, from eating your heart out at the food hall to enjoying the soirees that take place here.

Check out the packed calendar, where you can attend everything from film screenings and watch parties, to the dozens of opportunities to join fun mixer events, comedy shows, private concerts, fashion shows, and so much more!

Locals recommend visiting for Sunday brunch as well, or the Jazz concerts on Saturday.

65 – Have a laugh at the Bonkerz Comedy Club

Making St. Petersburg and the country laugh since 1984, the Bonkerz Comedy Club has won the hearts of many, including a few celebrities, as one of their favorite comedy clubs, originally started in St. Petersburg.

The Bonkerz Comedy Club is one of the main comedy venues in Florida, so if you’re looking for a good show, you’ll find it here! The club hosts many celebrity comedians, as well as locals, from pop culture comedy to crude comedy, and relatable comedy – it’s all here!

Shows are typically held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, so be sure to plan ahead!

Pro tip: Buy your ticket ahead of time to receive a $2 discount! Also, seats are first come first serve, so make sure to arrive 1 hour before the show starts!

Where to stay in St. Petersburg?

Check out the comfortable digs inside Crystal Bay Historic Hotel , featuring a 24-hour front desk, shuttle services for guests, and beautiful views out to the terrace and gardens. Breakfast is served daily, which includes vegetarian and vegan options. This hotel is only 3.4 miles away from John’s Pass.

The Holiday Inn Express St. Petersburg North doesn’t disappoint with its highly rated clean rooms, filling breakfast options, and secure free parking. At just a short distance away is the Tropical Sunken Gardens, the Tropicana Field Baseball stadium, as well as a few other notable sights.

Welcoming guest with rows of palm trees, large pools, and beautiful and clean rooms is the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park . Soak up the Floridan way of life at this hotel, and focus on working on your sun tan in the lounge chairs by the pool, or working up a sweat in the state-of-the-art gym.

• best hotels in St. Petersburg

Where to go next?

If you’re in search of exploring other incredible cities and things to do in Florida , then look no further! Go people-watching at the famous Pier 60 in Clearwater as the sunset rolls in, or better yet, set sail on a Pirate Cruise full of non-stop fun activities!

Get nerdy at the Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa , and afterward devour the goodies inside Ybor City for a taste of Tampa. Hit the mangroves on a kayak in Sarasota , or for the art lovers, head to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art for stunning works of art.

Take on all the water parks in Kissimmee , from Island H20 Live to Aquatica Orlando, and then wander back in time through Old Town Kissimmee for night fun! Create the perfect picnic to enjoy at Bok Tower Gardens in Orlando , or learn more about some of the local marine life in Crystal River.

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed our list of fun things to do in St. Petersburg! Which one was your favorite? Is it the mouthwatering restaurants, or the historic homes of Kenwood? Or perhaps it’s the stunning beaches like Fort De Soto Park?

Whichever it is, let us know! We hope your future travels take you to this Floridian slice of paradise.

Happy travels!

20 Best Things to do in St. Petersburg Florida

By: Author Hannah

Posted on Last updated: 5 June, 2024

Florida is home to some of the world’s top beaches, award-winning restaurants, and stunning natural scenery. It’s not often thought of as a hub for culture, but as anyone who’s visited its top cities can tell you, there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to Florida’s charm.

St. Petersburg is a city on Florida’s gulf coast and has the perfect selection of white sandy beaches, top-tier dining, and nature exploration. The list of things to do in St Petersburg is never-ending, but we’ve managed to narrow it down to give you a glimpse into some of the top activities when visiting the city.

Things to do in St Petersburg, FL

1. check out the saint petersburg pier.

Also known as St. Pete Pier, the Saint Petersburg Pier is a famous landmark in the city. The pier is a waterfront attraction and extends from the downtown core into Tampa Bay.

There are lots to do at the pier. Firstly, there’s a huge parking area, so finding a place to leave your car is easy. There’s public art and green spaces where you can come just to meet up with friends or spend a relaxing afternoon. Or, beat the heat and check out the outdoor waterpark area called the Splash Pad.

There are also some of the best restaurants in St Petersburg in the area and some great cafés & bars. Check out Teak at the end of the Pier for a fine dining experience.

2. Explore the Sunken Gardens

The Sunken Gardens are a botanical hideaway in the middle of the city. It is sometimes called a living museum as some of its tropical plant species are over a century old.

The gardens are full of an astonishing variety of 50,000 different species of tropical plants. Follow the winding walkways past pools and waterfalls and marvel at this lush paradise in the middle of a bustling metropolis.

Don’t miss the different parts of the garden. There is a peaceful Japanese garden, a walk-through butterfly garden, a cactus garden, and even a garden featuring Chilean flamingos.

Make sure to check out our article on planning a family Clearwater beach vacation . We include where we stayed, where we ate, and everything we did.  

3. Get up early for the St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market

A great way to feel part of the community in a new city is to visit a market. The St. Petersburg Saturday morning market is open every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. it’s one of the best things to do in St Peterburg on a Saturday.

It’s one of the largest markets in the US and covers several blocks’ radius in the downtown area. This is more than just going shopping.

You’ll find freshly harvested produce from local farmers, baked goods, and homemade preserves. There are food trucks serving up hot meals throughout the day and vendors selling art, crafts, jewelry, and clothing. Street performers roam the pathways, playing live music or entertaining kids with giant bubble blowers.

4. Spent some time at Shell Key Preserve

Shell Key Preserve is another must-visit park just southwest of St. Petersburg. It stretches for 195 acres of beautiful white sand beach, and it’s just a stone’s throw from the city center.

Fishing and boating are popular here, and it’s a hotspot for nesting and migrating birds. There are no facilities on the island, so it’s best suited for a day trip. Access is via private boat or public ferry.

There are some tours you can do if you want an organized expedition. Try out the clear-bottom kayak tour to get a glimpse of tons of wildlife.

5. Explore the Edge District

No visit to St. Petersburg is complete without exploring the city’s Edge District. This is the life and soul of the city, full of restaurants, breweries, cafés, and unique independent shops. They focus on maintaining small communities through independent businesses.

This is where the most eclectic mix of businesses live. You’ll find everything from furniture stores to bohemian clothing shops. For anyone seeking activities, stop by one of their yoga studios or lose yourself in an Escape Room game.

The Edge is easily one of our favorite parts of St Petersburg. Some of the best restaurants in St Petersburg are found in the Edge District. Red Mesa Mercado has one of the best breakfasts in St. Petersburg . We highly suggest visiting them before exploring the town.

Check out their events schedule ahead of time, since there are often street performances, live music, and more happening in the district.

6. Learn something new at Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Located on St. Pete Pier, the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is a learning experience that is interactive and fun for all ages. If you are looking for things to do in St Petersburg with kids, add the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center to your itinerary.

Their indoor exhibit area focuses on educational exposés on local wildlife and ecosystems. There are video presentations, displays, daily talks from experts, and even a touch tank that is welcome for all ages.

If you want to learn about Florida’s ecosystems in a more exciting, hands-on way, book a tour on their 45-foot “eco-vessel” boat, which takes visitors out onto the water to see native species in the wild. This is the most fun way to learn about ecology while also exploring the city. For more information and tickets, click here .

7. Visit the Dalí Museum

Immerse yourself in the art and history of Spanish artist Salvador Dalí at the Dalí Museum . It holds 200 paintings and over 1,000 sculptures, graphics, and photos. It is probably the most well-known museum in St Petersburg. Remember, there are 31 museums in St. Petersburg .

The building’s architecture was inspired by the surrealism Dalí himself is famous for. You’ll want to take your time exploring the halls and seeing the glass entryway.

After you’ve explored the astounding collection of original artwork, grab a bite of Spanish-inspired food in the Gala Café.

8. Visit Pass-a-Grille Beach

You can expect to find lots of beaches when you visit St. Petersburg, but Pass-a-Grille Beach stands out from the rest. The soft white sand stretches for over 4 miles of undeveloped beachfront.

The beach is located only minutes from downtown St. Petersburg. The area around the beach feels like a quiet, laid-back beach town. It’s full of quaint boutiques, markets, bars, cafés, and ice cream shops.

Aside from the Paradise Grille, where you can grab a bite to eat while listening to live music, Pass-a-Grille Beach has no developments on the beach itself. The beach is pretty much the same as it has been for decades: nothing but sand, surf, and sun. It’s the perfect place to spend a day when visiting St. Petersburg.

Related Article: Where to Find the Best Burgers in St. Pete

9. Spend some time at Egmont Key

Egmont Key State Park is the place to go if you want a nature refuge. This is one of Florida’s most secluded national parks, located on a small island just south of St Petersburg. You can reach it by ferry from the city or via private boat.

The island is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. It’s particularly known for being home to gopher tortoises and many varieties of seabirds. Be sure to check out the hidden beach to explore a 19th-century fort and go hunting for seashells.

10. Take your kids to the Great Explorations Children’s Museum

This is one of the best spots to take your kids when visiting St. Petersburg. The Great Explorations Children’s Museum is an interactive play museum perfect for ages 10 and under.

The museum is full of exhibits, play areas, and hands-on activities to help children stay stimulated and burn off a little energy. They can get their hands messy at art stations or play pretend in a vet’s office, grocery store, and other scenarios.

There are also physical activities like climbing areas and jungle gyms. This is such a great rainy day family activity that your kids will be begging to return.

11. Upham Beach Park

Upham Beach is a great example of the beauty of Florida’s beaches, but without the massive buildings and hotels that line the busier, more touristy St Pete Beach. Sometimes lively music can be heard drifting from the south end of the beach, where more restaurants, bars, and hotels can be found.

There is a grassy dune area just beyond the parking lot (meter pay parking that operates from 8:00 to 20:00), and once you are past the dunes, you land right on Upham Beach. The beach is a wide expanse of white sand at low tide and virtually sandless at high tide when the water comes right up to the dunes. If you’re planning a day of lounging, be sure to check tide charts to find out when to come and go.

Other amenities include a concession (the Seaside Grille), an outdoor shower, public bathrooms, and a nearby trolley stop just a few minutes walk from the beach. You can surf here too, but erosion over time has caused water conditions to be less than ideal.

12. Fort de Soto Park

Fort de Soto Park is widely regarded as having the nicest beaches in Florida. It’s located a bit further south of St Pete Beach and spans over 1,100 acres across five connected islands. If you’re looking for things to do in St Petersburg with kids, it’s also great for families, and the pirate-themed playground is a big hit with kids. However, they’ll love the beach too, where shallow tide pools are great for playing and looking for seashells.

The white sandy beaches lead into warm, crystal-clear waters, so whether you’re lounging or swimming, the conditions are perfect. If you like to go fishing, good news: you can do that here too. There’s a bait shop nearby, and plenty of pelicans to keep you company while you wait for your catch of the day.

There’s also an area with an off-leash, dog-friendly beach, so your furry friends can have fun on the beach too. The nearby Paw Playground has hoses you can use to clean off your pooch after they’ve gotten sandy.

Other things you can do include kayaking, canoeing, or snorkeling, and there is plenty of wildlife to be seen in the nearby shallows! You might get lucky and spot some sea turtles.

13. Florida Orange Groves Winery

Florida Orange Groves Winery is a family-owned winery on the Florida mainland, just across the Pasadena Avenue bridge from St Pete Beach. They call themselves a ‘tropical fruit winery’ (the first in Florida), specializing in the production of over 43 varieties of tropical fruit wine.

Their wines are pure fruit-derived, made from tropical fruit, berries, or citrus. A specialized fermentation and aging process means that the final result tastes like wine, but with the distinct flavor of the fruit used to make it! They do daily tastings and tours, during which you can sample many varieties of their wine, like the mango wine, red raspberry wine, or their bestseller – the key lime wine, a true Florida flavor.

There is also a gift shop where you can purchase bottles to take home or gifts to loved ones. It makes for a great souvenir of your visit.

14. Sunset Beach

The entire area of St Pete Beach and Clearwater is great for sunset watching, and Sunset Beach is another spot where you can get a great view of the sunset. It’s located at the south end of Treasure Island. Without the usual condominiums and resorts that are right next to most beaches, Sunset Beach is a more relaxing, laid-back beach that still has white sand and warm blue water.

The beaches of St Petersburg and Clearwater are what makes it one of our favorite Florida spring break destinations .

It has the feel of a small bohemian beach town. The area has colorfully decorated houses, tiki huts, and small bars with laid-back attitudes. Because of this, it’s a big hit with the LGBTQ+ community, and you’ll find people from all different lifestyles and backgrounds who like to come here and hang out.

It still has all the beach necessities like bathrooms, a shower area, and even a beautiful pavilion that is a great example of Florida’s vernacular architecture.

Related Article: Best Beaches Near Disney World

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15. Treasure Island Slide

Back on Treasure Island just north of St Pete Beach is one of the most fun attractions you’ll find in the area. The Treasure Island Slide is so big it can be spotted before you even reach the parking lot. Also called The Hippo, it’s a huge inflatable water slide kids will love going down.

There are also a few smaller inflatables nearby, like a pirate ship and a bounce castle. In addition, there is a bungee trampoline. These attractions are right on the sand, so you can set up nearby and alternate between lounging in the sun and going for a slide. Rates vary depending on how many times you go.

There’s a mat walkway directly to the complex area from the parking lot to make access easier. Some rides have weight limits (since they are designed with kids in mind), so not everything will be adult-friendly.

16. Gulf Beaches Historical Museum

Originally a church built in 1917, the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is a small, intimate museum with exhibits that focus on the local history. It was the first church of the barrier islands, and it became so popular that a new, larger church was commissioned nearby.

Hours are limited, and the museum is open only from 11 am-2 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, but free admission. Visitors will learn about many nautical topics relevant to the natural surroundings of the keys, like Red Tide, sea turtles, and the old now-closed Aquarium, which kept trained dolphins, pilot whales, and later on, sharks.

There are separate exhibits on the Second World War, the Don CeSar Hotel, and artifacts dating back to the 1500s. There are also exhibits with hundred-year-old photographs and postcards, which give visitors a glimpse into life in this area a long time ago. Once you’ve learned plenty of new things about the history of the region, swing by the gift shop for sea-themed pieces made by local jewelers, artisans, and designers.

Marie Brandon

Wednesday 15th of June 2022

Daughter just moved there 2 yrs ago, I’m thinking to go the same. It’s so pretty.

Jake Stimmell

Thursday 21st of April 2022

St Pete is almost like heaven I lived there for 30 yrs back when retired people sat out in front of the Pennsylvania hotel I miss the old days

Tuesday 29th of March 2022

Thank you! This is a great article. We own and have managed a VR near our home in Gulfport for 10 years. We love to supply our Guests with articles like yours. We’re proud to say we’ve assisted 6 families relocate to our area by way of our rental and info like this.

Marisa Hoke

Friday 7th of January 2022

Excellent article!