12 Best Binoculars for Safari in 2022 [Safari-Proof]

Safaris can be a really memorable way to experience nature and to view exotic and exciting wildlife. Most safari experiences involve riding around in a vehicle and viewing wild animals from a respectful distance. With this in mind, binoculars can be an essential tool for making the most out of a safari and getting the best view possible. In this article, we’ll look at some of the binoculars that we think are most capable of bringing you breathtaking wildlife views while resisting damage from the bumpy ride.

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Best Binoculars for Safari

1. Nikon Monarch 5 8X42 Travel Binocular

The Monarch 5 is a great all around set of binoculars that works well for a variety of purposes. For a safari, the 8X42 model of the Monarch 5 is perfect. This model has large objective lenses that let in plenty of light and high-powered magnification for viewing distant objects. Nikon’s optics are trusted by enthusiasts and fans thanks to their consistent quality.

These Nikon travel binoculars come with a roof prism system that is resilient against impacts and ready to withstand the demands of your next adventure thanks to a tough polycarbonate body.

These binoculars feature ED glass with multi-coatings to deliver sharp images wherever you point them. The color rendition these binoculars can manage is vibrant and true to reality.

The Monarch 5 has a wide field of view of 330 feet at 1,000 yards. The construction of these binoculars makes them useful for a variety of conditions as they are fog and water-resistant.

Aperture: 42mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 6.3°
Eye relief: 19.5mm
Weatherproof: Fog

2. Swarovski EL 10X42 Binocular with FieldPro Package

The Swarovski EL 10X42 is very expensive. For beginners or users who are not particularly concerned with high-end optics, it may be better to select a more budget-oriented option. For optics enthusiasts, though, the Swarovski EL is a slam dunk.

The quality of the Swarovski EL is apparent with each use as it brings distant wildlife into stunning sharp focus. The Swarovski EL has minimal noticeable defects or aberrations.

These binoculars have 42mm objective lenses and 10x magnification. This allows for powerful magnification as well as vibrant light transmission. The EL comes with a field bag, eyepiece cover, objective lens cover, and lift carrying strap.

Like most Swarovski models, the EL is backed by a Swarovski Optic Lifetime Warranty. This model is waterproof with a submersion rating of up to 13ft deep.

Aperture: 42mm
Magnification: 10x
Lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 6.0°
Eye relief: 20mm
Weatherproof: Waterproof, submersible, fog proof
Weight: 29.6 ounces

3. Celestron Nature DX 8X42 Wildlife Binoculars

The Nature DX by Celestron is a great budget-conscious option which allows the user to get up-close views of wildlife without breaking the bank. These binoculars are easy to use and focus. The 42 millimeter objective lenses of the Nature DX offer bright contrast.

The Nature DX features a rubber armored body perfect for gripping and for impact resistance. The lenses are fully multi-coated and the roof prism configuration utilizes high quality BaK4 prisms.

For rugged on-the-go use, the Celestron Nature DX is a tough beginner option to beat!

Aperture: 42mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 7.4°
Eye relief: 17.5mm
Weatherproof: Fog and waterproof
Weight: 22 oz

4. Zeiss Terra ED Pocket 8X25mm Compact Binocular

Safaris can be exhausting business, so traveling light can help ease your burden. If you’re in the market for a highly functional compact option, the Zeiss Terra ED is a great choice.

Lightweight and portable, the Zeiss Terra Ed features a Schmidt-Pechan roof prism system, which makes these binoculars both bright and easy to carry.

The Zeiss Terra ED uses smaller 25 millimeter objective lenses. This reduces weight, but it also means that these binoculars do not transmit as much light and may not be as functional in dim conditions.

The lenses of these travel-sized binoculars come with Zeiss “MC coating,” which keeps the image clear and the lenses safe from the external elements.

Furthermore, the Terra ED is both fog and water-resistant. The use of aluminum makes it one of the best lightweight binoculars for travel, birdwatching, nature observation, and outdoor activities.

Aperture: 25mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 25mm
Field of view: 52°
Eye relief: 16mm
Weatherproof: Fog and waterproof
Weight: 10.93 oz

5. Vortex Optics Viper HD 10X42 Safari-Proof Binoculars

The Vortex Viper HD is a higher-priced binocular, ideal for safari wildlife viewing and hunting. It has 10x magnification and 42 millimeter lenses. The design of the Viper HD is rugged and easy to grip thanks to its rubber armored chassis. We especially loved the thumb indents that prevent the binoculars from slipping out of damp hands!

The XR anti-reflective lens coatings, with which the Viper HD has been treated, give exceptionally clear views even in dim light. The focus wheel in the middle is large and easy to use, turning effortlessly for quick sharp views.

These binoculars feature Argon purging and O-ring seals, making them water-proof and fog-proof. Vortex is a trusted brand and their quality construction shines through with these binoculars which make a great addition to one’s safari supplies.

Aperture: 42mm
Magnification: 10x
Lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 5.5°
Eye relief: 16mm
Weatherproof: Waterproof and fog proof
Weight: 28.8 ounces

6. Vortex Diamondback HD 8X32 Safari Binoculars

The Diamondback HD, also by Vortex, is another strong choice for birdwatching, nature exploration, and safaris. These binoculars features a roof prism system for durable performance, 8x magnification, and objective lenses with a diameter of 32 millimeters.

The Diamondback HD has a decent eye relief of 16mm and an exit pupil of 4mm. These binoculars boast a field of view angle of 8.1 degrees. The eyecups are adjustable for comfort and reduced strain.

The center wheel can adjust the focus of both barrels at the same time. These binoculars come with an Armortek finish and are fairly rugged and durable.

Shockproof, with Vortex’s signature optical quality behind it, the Diamondback HD is a sturdy and reliable safari companion.

Aperture: 32mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 8.1°
Eye relief: 16mm
Weatherproof: Waterproof
Weight: 15.9 oz

7. Nikon Prostaff 7s 8X30 Binocular

The Nikon Prostaff 7S 8X30 Binocular is reasonably priced at under $200 and is ideal for outdoor use. This set of Nikon binoculars is reliable and trustworthy thanks to its rubber-armored body that protects against wet weather. The rubber armor also protects the binoculars in the event of dropping or rough handling.

With 30 millimeter lenses and 8x magnification, the clarity and color of the images are definitely impressive, especially considering the light weight of this product.

These binoculars have fully multilayer-coated lenses and phase correction-coated roof prisms which contribute to the sharp vivid views that they provide. The Prostaff 7s offers great eye-relief with turn-and-slide rubber eyecups.

Aperture: 30mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 30mm 
Field of view: 6.25° 
Eye relief: 10.4mm
Weatherproof: Waterproof and fog proof
Weight: 14.6 ounces

8. Steiner Safari UltraSharp 10X26 Binoculars

Also budget-friendly, the Steiner 10×26 Safari UltraSharp Binoculars are a great choice for a Safari. The tough-looking design of these binoculars is not just for show, as they can easily withstand treacherous outdoor conditions.

Thanks to the Safari UltraSharp’s fast Close-Focus feature, moving subjects can be viewed easily and quickly. This model has 26 millimeter lenses and 10x magnification.

There are Steiner High-Contrast coatings on every lens, contributing to clear and sharp images. For bad weather and rough conditions, the binoculars have a waterproof construction and rugged armoring that absorbs bumps and bashes.

The ergonomic eyecups fold down for use with eyeglasses, though the eye relief is still far too short for most glasses-wearers. These binoculars are very light, weighing only 10.5 ounces. Overall, the Steiner Safari UltraSharp is a great compact option for on-the-go adventuring.

Aperture: 26mm
Magnification: 10x
Lens diameter: 26mm
Field of view: 5.9° 
Eye relief: 11mm 
Weatherproof: Waterproof 
Weight: 10.5 ounces

9. Steiner Optics Predator 10X42 Binoculars

The Steiner Predator is designed with hunting in mind. While safaris don’t always involve hunting, the features that make a great set of binoculars for hunting carry over well to the safari experience.

The clarity, sharpness, and color of the images that the Steiner Predator provides are impressive. The binoculars have large 42 millimeter objective lenses and 10x magnification. They are exceptionally tough but light enough to carry around your neck. The amazing Color Adjusted Transmission system amplifies the contrasts, allowing the user to spot game, or view wildlife, in difficult conditions.

For the fast acquisition of images, there is a Fast-Close-Focus focusing wheel that requires minimal rotation to quickly obtain a sharp view. The binoculars are waterproof and fog-resistant. An amazing perk is the ClicLoc System, which attaches and releases the neck strap with a one-finger push-button. It also keeps the binoculars hanging straight and ready for action.

Aperture: 42mm
Magnification: 10x
Lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 5.0°
Eye relief: 16mm
Weatherproof: Waterproof and Fog resistant
Weight: 26.5 ounces

10. Hawke Sport Optics Endurance ED 8X32mm Safari Binoculars

The Endurance ED Hawke is a quality pair of binoculars for safari. These binoculars feature 32 millimeter objective lenses with 8x magnification.

Weather-proof with long eye relief for glasses-wearers and a sturdy overall design, these binoculars are great for sight-seeing of all kinds.

The Endurance ED features a BaK4 roof prism system for durability and lenses with fully multi-coated layers to reduce damage and increase vibrancy.

The Endurance ED is a great choice for safaris, birdwatching, and an array of nature-viewing activities.

Aperture: 32mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 7.4°
Eye relief: 18mm
Weatherproof: Fog and waterproof
Weight: 19 oz

11. Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 8X42 Binoculars

The Leupold McKenzie BX-1 features 42 millimeter objective lenses with 8x magnification. These binoculars come with fully multi-coated lenses and feature a hardy roof prism construction.

The chassis of these binoculars is fog and water-proof as well with an impact-resistant rubber-armored housing which is also great for maintaining grip in wet conditions.

The BX-1 McKenzie by Leupold is one of the lower priced items in the Leupold product lineup. Despite this, this product is capable of delivering exceptional quality in a package that is compact, portable, and able to take a beating.

Aperture: 42mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 6.1°
Eye relief: 17.7mm
Weatherproof: Fog and waterproof
Weight: 22.1 oz

12. Carson 8X32mm 3D Series Waterproof Binocular

The Carson 3D features 32 millimeter objective lenses and 8x magnification. These binoculars, like many on this list, use a roof prism construction for durability and brightness.

This device is a solid option for hunting and birding. The Carson 3D is nitrogen purged to prevent damage from water and fogging. Additionally, these binoculars include a long eye relief of 19.5mm which allows for comfortable operation even whilst wearing eyeglasses.

Sharp, bright, and easy to use, the Carson 3D is a strong contender for outdoor activities such as nature-viewing, hiking, birdwatching, and safaris.

Aperture: 32mm
Magnification: 8x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 7.5°
Eye relief: 19.5mm
Weatherproof: Fog and waterproof
Weight: 18.1 oz

Porro-prism vs. roof-prism binoculars

One challenge when choosing safari binoculars is to make sense of all of the vocabulary involved. In this section, I’ll explain what people mean when the use the phrase “Porro Prisms” versus “Roof Prisms.” Binoculars use prisms to reflect light and magnify images. These two terms refer to the ways in which these prisms can be configured.

Porro-prism binoculars

This design places the prisms at right angles to one another, allowing them to redirect the light many times, from left to right and top to bottom. Binoculars that use Porro-prisms are easier to manufacture. The prisms take up less space inside the tube. Binoculars have a broader shape with a hinge between the two oculars, for adjusting to the size of your face. Porros are great at transmiting light and are used often for astronomy. They are typically, however, a bit more fragile.

Roof-prism binoculars

Roof-prisms have surfaces that look much like a house roof. Inside, are two roof-prisms, placed to give a double reflection. This allows the image to enter and reflect without having to flip it. Binoculars with roof-prisms give sharp high-quality images. The design of the binocular is slimmer, with an H-shaped style. Roof-prisms tend to be more sturdy.

Which is best for safari?

The adjustment of Porro-prism binoculars uses a focus wheel that shifts the eye-pieces. This design requires external moving parts. 

Roof-prism binoculars adjust by moving the lenses inside the tubes. There are no outside moving parts and less chance of failure or breakage. Roof-prisms’ designs are sleeker and more streamlined. 

Both are suitable for a safari adventure, however I lean towards recommending roof-prisms.

Related: 12 Best Binoculars for Hiking (Lightweight & Trail Tested)

What is the best magnification for safari?

When shopping for binoculars, you’ll often see numbers that look something like “10×42” or “8×30.” The first number indicates the magnification. This is how many times larger the image is when viewed through the lens. 

10x means that an image is 10 times larger than you would see with your naked eye. For safari, a magnification of 8x all the way up to a maximum of 12x may be appropriate. If the magnification is too big, your binoculars will be heavier, more difficult to carry, and focus. For users who don’t want to have to worry about shaky images or tripods, I would recommend going no higher than 10x magnification. On safari, you are either walking or traveling in a safari vehicle. There is no time nor space to set up a tripod. Your binoculars need to be hanging around your neck, ready to be lifted and focused at a moment’s notice. 

The second number is the size of the diameter of the objective lenses in millimeters. 30 indicates a 30mm lens. Larger sizes allow more light to enter, giving better views. When on Safari, your most exciting viewing often takes place at dawn and dusk. Lenses smaller than 30mm may not produce clear images in dim light. Lenses bigger than 42mm make the device larger and heavy to carry.

Exit pupil size is another number to consider. It also determines the amount of light entering the binoculars and the quality of the image. An exit pupil of 7mm is ideal for safari viewing. 

For a lightweight binocular for animal viewing and birding, a solid choice would be 8×30 or 8×20. For a walking safari, the Leica 8×20 is a good option as it is small. However, the 20mm lens would not work as well as a 30mm in low light. 

You need “safari proof” binoculars

Everything about a safari is rough! Rough roads, high temperatures, frequent movement, dust, humidity, rain, and the chance of dropping your binoculars! Your model must be up to the challenge.

Waterproof

Getting wet on a safari is a matter of when not if. Your model must be waterproof and possibly fog proof.

Shockproof

Travelling on rough, bumpy sand roads will shake you and your equipment around. Even though safari vehicles are pretty comfortable these days, you are bound to drop or bash your binoculars at some point during your excursion. 

Models with rugged armoring absorb bumps and bashes. A flimsy model will be easily damaged, ruining your chances of an amazing sight and wasting what could be a pretty significant investment. Choose binoculars that include a good quality protective carry case. 

Long eye relief

This means that you will be able to hold your binoculars further away from your eyes and still see a clear image. In the hot African sun, you may wear sunglasses, or you may wear eye-glasses. Keeping them on is important, even when looking through the binoculars. Eye relief of 16mm to 18mm should give you enough distance to suit your needs.

Related: 12 Binoculars for People With Glasses

Weight

Packing for safari means taking a lot of things. There are also weight limitations on planes and limited luggage space in vehicles. Ideally, your safari binoculars should be lightweight and portable. I would recommend against anything heavier than 30 ounces.

Another great hack is to pick up binocular harness, that way you don’t need to worry about the weight so much. If you are on a very tight budget, then we suggest that you consider a proper monocular instead. These are quite small, cheap, and easy to use.

How to choose the right binoculars for safari?

Magnification

A magnification of 8x to 10x is ideal for safari. Bigger magnifications, like 12x, may deliver great views, but they make the binoculars heavier to carry. 

Lens diameter

A lens diameter of 26mm to 42mm is good for safari. The bigger the lens, the heavier the binoculars will be. I think 32mm is probably the sweet spot.

Field of view

The field of view needs to be as wide as possible. Choose binoculars that range between 4° and 6°. You will be doing a lot of scanning in areas enclosed by undergrowth, bushes and trees. A wider field of view will help you spot animals quickly in these conditions.

Lens coating

As this may be the first time you are seeing exotic wild animals, you want to see them clearly! Choosing the best optical coatings will cut down on light reflection, giving you sharp images. Look for fully multi-coated or high-contrast coatings. 

Eye relief

Long eye relief is important. You will be spending a lot of time looking through your binoculars. They must be comfortable, especially if you wear spectacles or sunglasses.

Weatherproof

The weather can be unpredictable! Choose models that are water-proof and if possible, fog-proof. Look for rugged outer armor coatings that protect against rough weather as well as dropping and bashing. 

Weight

You will be doing a lot of walking and climbing in and out of your Safari vehicle. Being weighed down by monster binoculars around your neck is not what you want. Choose models under 30 ounces.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need binoculars for safari?

If you want to enjoy the best views of the wildlife possible, then binoculars are a must-have on safari.

What are the best binoculars for safari?

Overall the best binoculars for safari are the Swarovski EL 10X42s. As a less expensive and more compact alternative, I recommend the Steiner Safari UltraSharp 10X26 Binoculars.

What type of binoculars is best for safari?

The best binoculars for safari are lightweight and comfortable to grip. They must come with quality optics and a wide field of view. If you happen to wear spectacles, choose a device with longer eye relief. As you are going to use it outdoors; your binoculars need to be sturdy. 

What are the best all-around binoculars?

If you are looking for the best all-around binoculars, pick the Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binoculars. They are robust, have quality optics, are quite affordable, and come with a wide field of view.