Best Binoculars For Safari, Wildlife & Whale Watching

Binoculars can make a significant difference when observing animals in their natural environment. 

If you are on safari, watching wildlife from a hide or looking for whales offshore, a good pair of binoculars will help you spot details that would otherwise be hard to see.

The best binoculars are often those that offer a bright image, a wide field of view and comfortable handling.

Why Is A Wide Field Of View Useful?

Animals do not always stay still.

With a wider field of view, it’s easier to spot and follow moving subjects, whether that’s a bird in flight, a deer crossing a field or a whale surfacing in the distance.

This is the reason why many wildlife observers prefer lower magnifications such as 8x over higher powered binoculars.

Why Are 8×42 Binoculars So Common?

If you go on a safari trip or visit a popular wildlife reserve, you will likely see a lot of people with 8×42 binoculars.

This configuration provides a balance between magnification, brightness and field of view. The 42mm objective lenses get enough light for viewing the early morning and late evening hours when wildlife is often most active.

Are 10x Binoculars Better For Distant Animals?

An 8x binocular is fine for most situations but a 10x will make distant subjects appear even larger, which can be useful when observing animals on open plains or viewing whales far offshore. But the higher magnification can also make any shake in the image more obvious and can reduce the field of vision.

Do You Need Waterproof Binoculars?

The weather can change quickly, especially around the coast. Waterproof binoculars give some additional protection against rain, sea spray and moisture. 

Many are also fog proof, helping to prevent interior fogging when temperatures change. These features are particularly useful for whale watching and other coastal activities.

What Matters Most?

The ideal binocular often depends on where it will be used.

Someone who spends a lot of time on safari may put brightness and comfort first, while a whale watcher may prioritise durability and weather protection more. 

The binocular that is easy to carry and enjoyable to use will see the most use.