Pokémon GO continues to evolve with new events, mechanics, and exciting ways to catch powerful Pokémon. One of the latest additions shaking up gameplay is the introduction of GO Safari Balls—a special type of Poké Ball designed to enhance your catching experience during Safari-themed events. Whether you’re aiming to secure rare Pokémon or power up your Pokédex with high-CP creatures, Safari Balls can significantly improve your success rate. In this guide, we’ll explore what GO Safari Balls are, how to get them, and the best strategies to catch mighty Pokémon like a pro.
What Are GO Safari Balls?
GO Safari Balls are special limited-event Poké Balls introduced in Pokémon GO to offer trainers a more immersive Safari experience. Inspired by the classic Safari Zone mechanics from the mainline Pokémon games, these balls are typically available only during specific events or regions.
Unlike regular Poké Balls, Safari Balls often come with boosted catch rates, helping players capture rare and high-level Pokémon that are often hard to catch. They also add a sense of nostalgia and adventure to the game, making each catch session unique.
How to Get GO Safari Balls in Pokémon GO
Safari Balls are usually not available through the regular in-game shop or PokéStops. Instead, they can only be obtained through the following methods:
1. Participate in Safari Zone Events
Safari Balls are primarily distributed during official Pokémon GO Safari Zone events held in selected cities and countries. Players attending these events—either physically or through special remote ticket options—receive Safari Balls as part of their event-exclusive items.
Each trainer is typically awarded a limited number of Safari Balls when they enter the event. Once you use them up, you must wait for timed refreshes or event quests to gain more.
2. Special Research Tasks & Timed Research
During Safari Zone and other themed events, Niantic sometimes includes Safari Balls as part of Special Research or Timed Research rewards. Completing tasks such as catching certain Pokémon, spinning PokéStops, or battling in gyms may reward you with additional Safari Balls.
3. Event Bonuses & In-Game Gifts
Some global events tied to Safari Zones also offer Safari Balls through bonuses. Niantic may distribute them through:
- Emergency gift bundles
- Login rewards
- Limited-time challenges
- Partner bonuses during sponsored events
Keep an eye on the Pokémon GO News tab and official social channels to stay informed.
How to Use Safari Balls Effectively
Once you have Safari Balls, using them wisely is key—especially because they’re limited. Here’s how you can make the most of them:
1. Target Rare or High-CP Pokémon
Safari Balls come with improved catch rates, so prioritize using them on:
- Regional exclusives
- High CP Pokémon
- Shiny Pokémon
- Event-exclusive spawns
- Rare evolved forms
Avoid wasting them on common Pokémon like Pidgey, Rattata, or Zubat.
2. Use Berries Strategically
Even with boosted catch chances, rare Pokémon can still flee. Combine Safari Balls with effective berries:
- Golden Razz Berry: Maximum catch rate boost
- Silver Pinap Berry: Balanced boost + extra candy
- Razz Berry: Helpful for mid-tier Pokémon
This combo significantly increases your odds of capturing mighty Pokémon.
3. Aim for Excellent Throws
Throw quality plays a big role in catching success. Practice hitting Great or Excellent throws with curveballs for added bonuses. With Safari Balls’ enhanced performance, this increases your hit and catch ratios dramatically.
4. Stay Calm With High-Aggression Pokémon
Some Pokémon have high aggression rates—like Absol, Scyther, or Aerodactyl. These Pokémon often swat away balls or break out repeatedly. Patience is the key here. Observe their attack patterns and release the Safari Ball at the right moment.
How to Catch Mighty Pokémon During Safari Events
Safari events often spawn powerful or rare Pokémon with low catch rates. Here’s how to secure them:
1. Track Spawn Hotspots
Safari Zones usually designate certain areas for increased spawns of mighty Pokémon. Check the event map in advance and plan your route to maximize encounters.
2. Focus on High-Value Targets First
Some mighty Pokémon have extremely low encounter rates. Prioritize these first:
- Salamence
- Metagross
- Garchomp
- Tyranitar
- Dragonite
These Pokémon are not just rare—they are useful in raids, PvP, and gym battles.
3. Team Up With Other Trainers
Playing with groups increases the number of Pokémon you can encounter through Lure Modules, Incense effectiveness, and shared tips. More encounters mean better odds of finding high-CP or shiny versions.
4. Use Incense and Lures Wisely
During Safari events, Incense often has boosted effectiveness. Combine it with Lure Modules on clusters of PokéStops to maximize encounters.
Final Tips to Maximize Your Safari Experience
- Keep your bag organized before the event to avoid missing catches.
- Charge your phone fully or carry a power bank.
- Take breaks—you’ll catch more Pokémon when you’re not rushing.
- Keep an eye on weather boosts to catch stronger versions of Pokémon.
- Always have spare space in your Pokémon storage to avoid missing rare captures.
Conclusion
GO Safari Balls bring a fresh wave of excitement to Pokémon GO, especially during Safari Zone events that feature rare and mighty Pokémon. Knowing how to earn and smartly use these special balls ensures you make the most out of each catch opportunity. Whether you’re aiming for high-CP beasts or rare shinies, mastering Safari Ball strategy will give you a real edge in your Pokémon GO journey.
