OK You are awesome, Shay tay,I'll tr to commit with a final decision on the canon as soon as I find a good price. Right now Amazon is close with all your suggested accessories. Only question is whether or not a metal vs "plastic" lens adapter is best.

Thanks a million

42nd St. Photo has it on sale for $339.99, and Costco, $349.99. I think Canon is currently giving rebates via their dealers. Rumor has it that they will be releasing the SX-50 this month, so you might wait and watch for that since you don't leave until October. As for plastic vs. metal... don't know. I've seen some discussions as to whether the 58mm adapter or 67mm adapter is best. I use the 58mm, but the 67mm is supposed to eliminate "vignetting". I did notice a bit of minor "shadowing" sometimes on the side of my videos, so that's probably what's happening.

Shay Tay - super advice again. Hadn't thought to wait for the new one to arrive. Maybe the SX-40 will drop a bit then. If you are already pleased with this model I'm sure I will be also in that you have so much more experience and I am just beginning with this type of camera. May I assume that 42nd St Photo is a reputable dealer? I'm worried about using someone on line and getting stuck if there are issues. I haven't seen this company before, mainly ABH, Adorama, and AjRiches had the lowest so far but not as good as your quote. In general, is there a particular search you recommend when I am price shopping?
thanks a million again

Here are the "rumors" for the SX-50 (might be worth waiting for):
-zoom: 1060mm x44 (instead of 840mm x35)
-14.1 MP (instead of 12.1 MP)
-920.000 pixel LCD (approx. 720x1280) (instead of 230.000 pixels, approx. 360x640)
-3" LCD (instead of 2,7")
-processor DIGIC V advanced (instead of DIGIC 5)
-Super SteadyShot system Hybrid IS (instead of Intelligent IS)
-Max. aperture: F2.8 - F5.0 (instead of F2.7 - F5.8)

There are a few other items that might be included, but these seem to be the main ones listed on photo websites.

I've used 42nd St. Photo in the past with no problems. Nextag is a comparison shopping site that's good. Use www.resellerratings.com before buying from any online store. The reviews there will give you an idea of whether or not they are reputable. 42nd St. Photo rates a 9.13 out of 10.

Hey Shaytay and Spunkie, there's some great camera info here worthy of it's own thread! Kinda gets lost in here.

Sharon I liked the photo cheat sheets website.

Hi Shatay, Just sent the link for resellerratings to my husband and sons. It's great. Found out that Adorama has a 9.52 and B&H photo 9.77. Combined with 42nd st. I know where to shop for a camera. Not sure I can wait for the SX-50 but I'll keep an eye out for in during the next couple weeks. The larger LCD sounds nice and clear but as you said you rarely use yours. What other features would be a big determining factor for me to wait? How would I see or feel the difference with the processor or steady shot? The SX-40 is down to $349.99 as you noted. I'm heading to Costco to check it out. I'm guessing the SX50 will be at least $100 more? What do you think.

If you've not been on safari before and looking for near-professional shots, the SX-40 ought to do the trick, especially if price is a consideration. The longer zoom, while nice on safari, also requires a lot of stabilization. The newer processor and higher pixels matter to some folks, too, but again, the SX-40 is a nice camera.

B&H, Adorama, 42nd St... I've used them all and have had no problems with them. Another thing to consider when purchasing your camera - get an extra battery or even two. If you buy generics, make sure they actually work in the camera. One of my friends on this last safari found out too late that her generics didn't. You'll also need to have adapters for the country or countries to where you'll be traveling. You don't need a converter. The chargers are all dual voltage.

Hi ShayTay, Just thought I'd let you know that I FINALLY made a camera purchase and could not have done so well without your advice. By waiting till this week I found a super clearance sale at Target for the Cannon SX40 - $292.38!!! For that price my mind was made up. Now checking out the accessories you have recommended, filters, extra batteries, and I found a laminated cheat sheet for instructions and operations in that there is nothing in the box that can go on the trip with me. I can see that my biggest challenge will be stabilization with the big zoom. I feel like I have Parkinson's. I still have a few weeks to practice so hopefully I can get a handle on this before on safari. We have a potential for 14 drives during our 10 day stay. Needless to say there will be a lot of time spent in the pop up top van and many opportunities to see some spectacular sights and animals. Hoping the SX40 helps me capture the moments. We will be on the frequently traveled circle with our beginning and end in Niarobi - Lake Nakuru, Massai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, Arusha, Amboseli. Other than calling us crazy, if you have any survival recommendations, please share..... I may need a lot of energy boosts to keep up with the pace and handle the bumping rides.
Thank you again for all the camera advice.

I've been traveling and am just now seeing your post... congrats on getting the camera! The Pod really worked great for me: www.thepod.ca. The red one is what works for the SX-40. I used the zoom at 35x and got some great videos. This video was shot at 35x (look in the featured gallery): sharontaylor.smugmug.com. In the open-topped vehicles, you can set it on the roof edge. Inside the vehicles, it will even work on the window ledge or even a seat armrest. I even used it when hand-holding the camera as it was comfortable that way. When hand-holding the camera, use your left hand to support the lens.

Survival tips? Hmmm... If you are traveling that circuit in a vehicle, stop, get out and stretch a bit. Keep hydrated and if you have a midday break in camp, use it to rest. Enjoy your safari!

Hi ShayTay
One last question about equipment - what do you recommend for any lens filters for the SX40? I know I need an adapter ring first and definitely a UV filter to protect the lens. Also was suggested I buy a Circular Polarizing filter. Again I have been researching like crazy but want to hear from someone who actually has used the camera and found some that are not super expensive. AND do I buy 58 or 67mm versions? Hope you can help me out again - then it is off to practice. I'm not getting clarity at full zoom yet so I think I need to start using some of the manual settings for shutter speed/ISO. I really am a novice here.

Thanks again