What Are Go Safari Balls and Are They Worth It in Pokémon GO?
Go Safari Balls are special Poké Balls introduced in the Pokémon GO "Wild Area: Global" event. They can only be used during event hours and disappear once the event ends. These balls are inspired by the Safari Balls from the mainline games, which are typically used in Safari Zones where you can’t battle wild Pokémon but can try to catch them using various tactics like throwing treats or rocks to increase the catch rate.
In Pokémon GO, Go Safari Balls offer a higher catch rate than regular Poké Balls, though the exact percentage is not publicly known. They are especially useful for catching “mighty Pokémon,” which debut during the event, but can also be used for any Pokémon encountered during the event. For example, they are effective against the Galarian birds, which have notoriously low catch rates. Make sure to use your Daily Adventure Incense during the event to increase your chances of encountering them.
If you purchase the Go Wild Area ticket, Go Safari Balls will replace Premier Balls during the raid’s catch phase in Max Battles, but any leftover balls will be discarded after the event ends.
Important Notes:
- Go Safari Balls are event-exclusive and expire at the end of the event (6:15 p.m. local time), so use them before then!
- Pokémon caught in Go Safari Balls cannot be transferred to Pokémon Home, so avoid using them on Pokémon you plan to transfer.
How to Get Go Safari Balls:
Free Methods:
- Complete daily Timed Research tasks during the event for 2 Safari Balls.
- Spin PokéStops (for a chance at obtaining Safari Balls, though it's rare).
Paid Methods:
- With the $11.99 Wild Area ticket, you can complete hourly Timed Research, earning 20 Safari Balls per hour.
- Alternatively, buy a $2 “Extra Access Ticket” for an additional 4 Safari Balls per hour.
Remember, regardless of how you earn them, all Go Safari Balls will vanish when the event ends, so be sure to use them up before 6:15 p.m. local time.
For additional event details, like Go Wild Area habitat spawns, mighty Pokémon, Gigantamax Toxtricity, and more, we have dedicated guides to help you make the most of the weekend.