When it comes to safari optics, I’ve learned that great glass can completely change your wildlife viewing experience. Over countless safaris across South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and even deep into the Pantanal of Brazil, I’ve refined what I bring into the field. What I bring always comes down to precision, reliability, and optical performance.
Recently, I put together a comprehensive video guide that walks through all my current safari optics from Swarovski Optik, a premium brand renowned for its clarity and craftsmanship. You can watch that video below for an in-depth look at the gear in action and see how I use each piece in real-world safari conditions.
This blog is the companion guide to the video above, a written breakdown of my go-to optical setup for wildlife travel.
Why I Choose Swarovski Optik
I’ll be upfront: Swarovski Optik isn’t entry-level gear. It’s designed for those who truly value precision optics and the kind of performance that stands up to the toughest environments.
Beyond the gear itself, my values align closely with Swarovski Optik. Their team is deeply committed to environmental responsibility, sustainability, and forward-thinking innovation.
My Safari Optic Lineup
1. CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars
If I had to pick one piece of gear that never leaves my side, it’s the CL Companion 8x30s. These are compact, lightweight, and perfect for all-day use.
The “8×30” refers to the magnification and objective lens size:
- 8x means objects appear eight times closer.
- 30mm is the diameter of the front lenses, allowing in plenty of light while keeping the size manageable.
The result? Crisp, bright views even in lower light. They fit perfectly in hand and are ideal for travelers who want serious optical quality without bulk.
If you’d like to see more details or check current pricing, click here.
2. ATC 17–40×56 Spotting Scope
This compact spotting scope has become a game-changer on my recent safaris. The ATC 17–40×56 offers variable magnification from 17x to 40x, with a 56mm objective lens that brings incredible brightness and detail, even over long distances.
I use this to scan wide riverbanks, waterholes, and open floodplains where picking out fine details really matters. It provides excellent image stability and clarity at higher magnifications, and its compact size makes it easy to travel with, even on fly-in safaris.
I’ve used the ATC extensively in South Africa’s Kruger region and Botswana’s Okavango Delta, and it consistently helps me find wildlife long before we get close.
See more details and where to get it here.
3. VPA 2 Variable Phone Adapter
If you love capturing content as much as I do, I love this handy-dandy adaptor set. The VPA 2 allows you to attach your smartphone to your binoculars or spotting scope, effectively turning your optics into a high-powered telephoto lens.
It’s simple to set up, works with a range of phone sizes, and produces stunning images and video footage. I often use it to display distant scenes through my ATC spotting scope, letting me share moments with clients and followers in real time.
Curious to see how it works? Check it out here.
Bonus: AX Visio Smart Binoculars
Now for the exciting part… the AX Visio smart binoculars. These are the future of wildlife optics. I took them with me to the Pantanal in Brazil, where I used them to spot and document jaguars along the riverbanks.
The AX Visio combines Swarovski Optik’s legendary optics with AI-driven image recognition and built-in recording capabilities. That means I can identify species on the spot, capture stabilized photos or video, and review them instantly — all within the binoculars themselves.
For guides, photographers, and serious wildlife travelers, this is a revolutionary tool that blends exploration with technology in a way that feels seamless.
See more about the AX Visio here and explore the specs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing premium optics isn’t just about seeing wildlife, it’s about experiencing it in the highest possible detail. Over the years, this setup from Swarovski Optik has completely elevated how I travel, guide, and connect with nature.
If you want to see how each of these pieces performs in the field, watch my full video guide here. It’s the most comprehensive look at how I use this gear across Africa and South America.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your wildlife travel journey, investing in quality optics is one of the best decisions you can make.
Jeff Hyer 