safari party for toddler

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Planning the perfect party doesn’t have to be exhausting! Choosing a theme is half the battle but once you find inspiration for your theme you’ll find your idea will quickly come together. Safari themed birthdays are a great way to get your child’s and their guest imagination moving.

You can make a big impact in a space with decorations that make your guest feel like they just stepped into a jungle. Many kids love animals which makes this such a fun party theme, not to mention it is extremely gender neutral. We have composed 20 ideas and recipes so that you can plan the perfect safari themed party. So grab your binoculars, put on your safari vest and let’s go on this adventure together.

1. DIY Balloon Centerpiece

These balloon centerpieces were initially designed for a pineapple themed party but their tropical themed arrangement would work perfectly for a safari theme too. This step by step tutorial is super easy you’ll have a big impact arrangement in no time at all.

Balloon centerpieces are a great way to fill up space while keeping it interesting and entertaining for the kids. If you don’t have a table big enough to host the arrangement you could consider attaching it to your wall for decor.

https://www.blog.birdsparty.com/2016/07/diy-balloon-fronds-tropical-party-table-centerpiece-garland.html PHOTOS AND RECIPE HERE: BIRDS PARTY

2. Sand Slime

It seems like slime is the latest craze with the kids these days. Glitter slime, neon slime, you name it and there is probably a slime variation of it. The texture alone is probably the most fun part of slime, you can stretch it, pull it, twist it and form it into anything you want.

Why not impress all the kids at your party with sand slime. You could consider making this sand slime to use as an activity in a sensory box depending on the age group or you could make this slime to send home as part of thank you gift to your guests.

https://frugalfun4boys.com/2015/04/07/how-to-make-sand-slime/ PHOTOS AND TUTORIAL HERE: FRUGAL FUN FOR BOYS AND GIRLS

3. DIY Binocular Favors

These do it yourself binocular favors will definitely get all the kids excited at your safari themed party. They’re easy to make and require minimal tools and resources. They’re super simple that you can have the whole family jump in on the craft making.

Fill these binoculars with treats and trinkets to send home with your guests. If you already have party favor plans you could consider making these binoculars for the kids to wear while at the party or make a fun eye spy game out them too.

https://www.handmadecharlotte.com/diy-jumanji-movie-night/ PHOTOS AND TUTORIAL HERE: HAND MADE CHARLOTTE

4. DIY Treasure Stones

These treasure stones are a fun and easy do it yourself project that you can do for your safari themed party. They’re super adaptable for many different themed parties because you could call them dinosaur eggs, stones or cannon balls. These treasure stones are made out of coffee grinds, flour, sand, and water. It has a playdough-like texture that can harden.

Place a secret treasure in the middle and let the kids go on a safari hunt to find the treasure stones in your yard. You could even have them use the binoculars you made in the previous tutorial to scout for their treasures. The rocks are hard enough to keep the trinket inside but are easy enough for younger kids to break open.

http://www.makelifelovely.com/2014/01/how-to-make-diy-treasure-stones.html PHOTOS AND TUTORIAL HERE: MAKE LIFE LOVELY

5. Animal Figure Decor

This blog shows you how you can take an animal themed party and modernize it. You can find animal figurines at many places like Hobby Lobby, Walmart, and even many dollar stores. Consider using them as decor for an inexpensive way to decorate your space.

You could use the animal figurines as cake toppers to fill up space as well as dress up a simple cake. You can even use them as centerpieces on your table. If you place them on candle holders you can create dimension within your centerpiece.

http://www.hellotinylove.com/emerys-2nd-birthday-party/ PHOTOS AND IDEAS HERE: HELLO TINY LOVE

6. Rainforest In A Jar

This rainforest in a jar is a very fun project that you could use for decorations at your safari themed party. However, if you have older kids you could consider making this a fun craft for everyone to do at the party.

It will keep the kids busy and they’ll have something fun they can take home with them. You can get a lot of the materials at your local dollar store or craft store at an inexpensive price. Make sure to purchase a variety of safari animals and let their imaginations run wild.

http://thecraftingchicks.com/rainforest-in-a-jar-kid-craft/ PHOTOS AND TUTORIAL HERE: THE CRAFTING CHICKS

7. Foil Balloon Backdrop

Foil balloons seem to be all the rage as of late. For good reason because, hello, they’re super fun! Foil balloons come in all sizes, colors, letters, and numbers. A phrase like “wild one” is very fitting for a safari themed party.

You could consider complimenting the foil balloon arrangement with a statement wall piece like this backdrop. It is made from brown paper twisted to look like vines. Add some leaf cutouts and you’ll have a jungle wall in no time.

http://www.carefreeblondeblog.com/2016/08/diy-wild-one-birthday-party.html#.Wumw79PwZTZ PHOTOS AND IDEAS HERE: CAREFREE BLONDE

8. DIY Animal Cupcake Toppers

Following animal figurine decorations, try using them for cupcake toppers too. This tutorial walks you through how to spray paint the figurines right up to how to make their adorable little party hats.

Spray painting animals is an awesome way to modernize a juvenile theme while still making it fun for the kids. This is always an easy way to make party favors for your guests too. Let them eat their delicious cupcake and then take their cupcake topper home too.

https://projectnursery.com/2015/08/diy-animal-cupcake-toppers/#_a5y_p=4216698 PHOTOS AND TUTORIAL HERE: PROJECT NURSERY

9. Safari Themed Snacks

Party food doesn’t have to be difficult and tiresome and let’s face it the decorations alone can take all our time and energy. Instead of making fancy foods to serve at your party you could consider using accessible packaged foods you can buy at the grocery store and labelling it with animal themes.

Cheezies can be used cheetah food, spinach dip for hippos, and if you don’t need to keep your party nut-free you could serve peanuts for elephants. Use labels to print your phrases onto and then you’ll have this animal food ready in a hurry!

http://www.roxyskitchen.com/safari-jungle-themed-first-birthday-party-part-ii-appetizers-finger-foods-snack-ideas.html PHOTOS AND IDEAS HERE: ROXYS KITCHEN

10. Chocolate Bear Paws

Bear paws are easy snacks that can be suitable for kids of all ages, and the adults will love these too. They are soft and chocolatey and will be snatched up quickly.

The claws are made out of almond slivers which makes the whole dessert edible and fun. Your animal lovers will love these tasty treats.

https://family.disney.com/recipe/chocolate-bear-paws/ PHOTOS AND RECIPE HERE: DISNEY FAMILY

11. Paper Plate Hippopotamus

Involving your guests in interactive crafts that can keep the kids busy at your party is always a good idea. These fun hippo themed paper plates are very cute and will keep them entertained.

Depending on the duration of your party you can have them make this craft from painting all the way to gluing. If you’re crunched for time with you could consider doing all the painting work pre-party and just have the kids assemble their hippo instead.

https://iheartcraftythings.com/paper-plate-hippopotamus.html PHOTOS AND RECIPE HERE: I HEART CRAFTY THINGS

12. Oreo Dirt Cups

Dirt cups may have been around for a while but they definitely make a great animal themed food. It is an easy way to make a delicious dessert that stays in line with your theme all the while pleasing all your little guests too.

It has chocolatey layers of creamy pudding and oreo crumbs and then buried gummies worms within. Their imaginations will be booming with this dessert.

http://shariblogs.com/oreo-dirt-cups/ PHOTOS AND RECIPE HERE: SHARI BLOGS

13. Paper Plate Snake

Instead of tossing your bubble wrap in the trash the next time you get an online order make sure to save it for this fun craft. This is another easy craft that all your little party guests can partake.

Using a rolling pin and bubble wrap you can achieve a textured painted snake very quickly. If you don’t have a rolling pin you could even use a slender cup so each child can paint their own. Once the plates are dry simply cut the snake in a swirl shape, glue on eyes and tongue and voila, it’s done!

https://www.craftymorning.com/paper-plate-snake-craft-using-rolling-pin/ PHOTOS AND TUTORIAL HERE: CRAFTY MORNING

14. Safari Tour

Interactive activities are a great way to keep your guests busy as well as keep them moving around. Afterall, a lot of kids love to run around a play. How else are they going to burn off all that sugar? This print out was originally designed for a preschool classroom but it can make a great party activity too.

If you’re having an outdoor party you could place stuffed animals around the yard, if you don’t have enough or all the animals called for on the sheet you could simply print off a picture of the animals instead. Have the kids go on a scavenger hunt and check off once they find all the animals. You could even make it a contest and have there be a prize for the guest who finds all the animals first! If you’re having the party indoors you can do the same just hide the animals throughout your house instead.

https://playtolearnpreschool.us/classroom-safari/ PHOTOS AND PRINTOUT HERE: PLAY TO LEARN PRESCHOOL

15. Safari Passport Invitations

Once you have decided on your theme the next step is to usually get the invitations ready to send out. Having the invitations themed to match the party is a great way to let your guest know what to expect as well keeps things creative and fun.

These safari passport invitations are a great idea and very customizable. This tutorial walks you through how you can make your own. The original design includes a photo of the birthday child but you could always leave the photo blank so your guests can draw a picture of themselves and bring their passport to the party.

http://prettypaperprettyribbons.blogspot.ca/2011/04/28-candles-blog-hop.html PHOTOS AND IDEAS HERE: PRETTY PAPER PRETTY RIBBONS

16. Adopt A Pet Party Favor

Party favors are a great way to give a thank you to your guests for coming to your party. After the kids have enjoyed their safari themed party you could set up a pet adoption center. Fill the pet station with safari stuffed animals and let each kid pick their own.

If you’re worried about disagreements of who get’s what animal you could always assign the adoptions yourself. Your guests will remember this fun safari themed party for a long time.

http://blog.wantsandwishesdesign.com/2016/12/pet-adoption-birthday-party.html PHOTOS AND IDEAS HERE: WANTS AND WISHES

17. Animal Cracker Funfetti Cake Batter Dip

Animal crackers are one of the easiest ways to get animal themed food at your party. This delicious snack resembles a kid-favorite snack, Dunkaroos.

This recipe only requires 4 ingredients and only takes 10 minutes to make. Serve this dip with delicious animal crackers and your guest will be dipping into this savory snack the whole time.

http://www.farmwifecooks.com/animal-cracker-dip/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes# PHOTOS AND RECIPE HERE: FARM WIFE COOKS

18. Lion Hummus

If you have a hard time getting your kids to eat healthy foods then you’ll definitely want to serve this platter at your safari party. Make healthy food fun by creating animal shapes.

Kids have big imaginations and if you can make healthy food look well, not healthy and more fun then they’re bound to eat it. This recipe is super easy because it uses store-bought hummus. The hardest job you’ll have with this recipe is cutting all the vegetables.

https://eatingrichly.com/lion-vegetable-tray/ PHOTOS AND RECIPE HERE: EATING RICHLY

19. Quick And Easy Fringe Garland

Another great way to decorate your safari themed party would be to make your own leaf garland. You can transform your space into a jungle with this easy do it yourself project.

Making fringe garland is an easy alternative to cutting out individual leaves. You get the same colors and effect but it is a whole lot easier and stays within your theme. As an added bonus this garland is super inexpensive and creates a big impact in a room.

https://jennybatt.com/blog/quick-and-easy-tunnel-fringe-garland PHOTOS AND TUTORIAL HERE: JENNY BATT

20. Safari Party Decor

If you’re looking for a safari themed party that can cover ideas from head to toe then this is it. This post has inspirations from the food table to a lush photo backdrop and everything in between.

This post also offers free printables like the adorable animal footprints that you can place all over your floors. You can even turn an ordinary fruit drink into an “explorer energy drink” that your guests will love.

https://www.americangreetings.com/inspiration/celebration/jungle-birthday-party-theme?utm_source=pinterest&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=seer-birthday-2018&utm_term=keyword&utm_content=device&pp=0 PHOTOS AND IDEAS HERE: AMERICAN GREETINGS

Clarissa loves experimenting with food of all cultures to make unique healthy dishes. When she’s not browsing Pinterest for new recipe inspiration she likes to pick up a DIY project and use her creative hands to make art or crafts. In her down time you can find her watching the latest documentaries on Netflix or going for nature walks.

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Kids , Birthday

Go wild with these 15 safari theme party ideas

July 29, 2023

Does your little explorer spend all their time slashing through the dense jungle in the backyard with their pretend machete? Or maybe their room looks like a wildlife refuge with all their ferocious stuffed safari animals. If either of those descriptions sounds like your child, then we’ve got the perfect birthday party theme for you.

With a safari theme birthday party , your mini adventurer is guaranteed to have a ferociously good time while also showing off their love for nature. Keep reading for more safari theme party ideas than there are zebras on the savannah.

“ Giraffe Birthday ” by Rifle Paper Co. for Paperless Post; image via Pexels .

Table of Contents

Plan a journey to the wilderness… or to the backyard

You know that a safari theme birthday party would be perfect for your little animal lover—but what exactly does the party planning look like? There are a ton of exciting options to make this next birthday a special one, both at home or out in the wild. Here are some ideas to add a bit of adventure to your safari birthday party.

1. Visit a local zoo or wildlife center

Zookeepers actually make great party hosts, especially when they bring some of their furry (or scaled) friends for each guest to take a look at. Plus, they often have party rooms you can rent out where the explorers can enjoy safari snacks on-site.

2. Create a backyard safari

In many places, it’s possible to hire an exotic animal handler who will visit your home with their menagerie. Your little adventurer will never forget the birthday they hung out with a boa constrictor!

3. Plan a wild dress code

For your safari theme party idea, encourage guests to show up in animal masks, animal prints, or full-on costumes of their favorite beasts. 

Due to the *nature* of a safari theme birthday party, there’s a good chance that it includes some kind of outdoor element. But what if the weather isn’t cooperative? Hardy adventurers won’t let a little rain or snow stop them… but it might stop your birthday plans. Luckily, there are plenty of fun safari activities you can plan for indoors.

4. Put on a movie

There are so many fun animal movies to choose from. Might we suggest “Madagascar,” “The Lion King,” or “The Jungle Book”?

5. Play some games

Whether you’re playing Monkey in the Middle or Sleeping Lions , plan some fun kids’ birthday party games to have everyone feeling like a true party animal, indoors or out.

6. Create some safari crafts

With a few simple party supplies, you can set up a safari craft station where your young guests can make their own artistic safari animals.

Safari-themed party supplies are available at Paperless Post Party Shop .

Decorations for a wild safari party.

Whether you’re hosting at home or elsewhere, you’ll want the venue to give off serious jungle vibes for your safari-themed party. Seek out garlands and streamers that look like vines, and balloons in varying shades of greens and browns. Some other decoration options to consider include the following.

7. A fun garland to set the mood

Set the mood by inspiring guests to Party like an animal with this decorative garland , featuring an elephant wearing a party hat.

8. An animal-shaped pinata

Fill this cheeta party pinata from Paperless Post Party Shop with treats for the kids to enjoy.

9. Creature-shaped plates

From animal print plates to plates shaped like animals , themed plates help bring your safari theme to life.

10. Animal-inspired costumes

Get into the safari spirit with safari animal print party hats and lion masks .

11. Delightful safari-themed party favors

Thank your guests for a roarin’ good time by sending them home with safari print party bags filled with trinkets like temporary animal tattoos .

Feeding hungry safari explorers (aka partygoers)

Of course, a day spent exploring will leave your guests licking their chops and circling the birthday cake like it’s a water buffalo. So, what kind of food does one serve at a safari-themed birthday bash? Animals eat all kinds of things, but these explorers will probably have a taste for cakes and treats, above all else.

12. The birthday cake

Maybe it’s shaped like your child’s favorite jungle animal or decorated with a scene from the safari of their dreams. Also, some animal candles make the perfect topper. 

13. Cupcake decorating kit

For desserts that can double as an activity, have your guests decorate cupcakes with animal-themed toppers . 

14. Animal tail treats

We love this idea of decorating chocolate-covered pretzel rods to look like tiger tails!

15. Veggies… but shaped like a lion

For a healthy snack, you can make a safari-themed veggie tray by using a dip (like hummus or ranch) as a lion’s face and surrounding it with peppers and carrots to form a lion’s mane. 

Wording for an adventurous invite

Once you’ve picked out your favorite safari-themed invites , it’s time to invite your child’s fellow adventurers with the perfect birthday invitations . If you’re more of a Tarzan than a Jane and have trouble choosing the right words, consider the below examples for your kids’ birthday invitations to get those creative juices flowing. 

Welcome to the jungle!

Axl is turning FIVE

Saturday, April 2nd

The adventure begins at:

4 o’clock in the afternoon

Please RSVP

Or, if your safari theme party is taking place at a location other than your home, you might use the following wording on your safari invitation :

Calling all critters!

Join us at the John Hammond Zoo

Animal print attire is highly encouraged!

“ Wild One” Flyer by Paperless Post.

Have a roaring good time with paperless post.

If party planning has you feeling like you’re lost in the jungle, Paperless Post is here to make it a walk in the park. Not only is Paperless Post your one-stop destination for exotic invitations and party decorations , but our app—available on both iOS and Android—makes organizing your birthday safari even easier. You can send invitations and track RSVPs right from your phone, plus communicate directly with other parents about things like dietary restrictions for all those safari snacks. 

With Paperless Post, your adventurous safari theme party will have your guests howling for more. 

Looking for other kids’ birthday party themes? Try our articles detailing how to throw parties for mermaids , race car fans , and unicorn lovers .

Browse safari invitations

Hero image via Kara’s Party Ideas .

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• Interviews How to throw an animal-themed birthday party like Sister Parish Design’s Eliza Harris

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Smart Party Planning

The Best Safari Party Ideas Everyone Will Love

Unisex Kids Parties

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Head deep into the jungle with this collection of simple Safari party ideas. The kids will have a wild time with fun and playful party decoration.

There are plenty of ideas that are easy to incorporate with a little DIY planning. This is a great party theme for any little adventurer.

Related articles:

• How To Make An Easy But Awesome Monkey Birthday Cake
• The Ultimate Guide To Easy Party Ideas For Boys

A Safari party is perfect on so many levels. For a start it is great for not only birthday’s, but also baby showers and christenings.

It also works as a great party theme for both boys and girls. You could say in a way that it is the perfect party theme, one which all party guests will have a great time.

Everyone will certainly have the time of their life at a Safari party. With it’s striking decor, it’s adorable characters and it’s capacity for wild adventures, this is a party that everyone is going to love.

How Do I Decorate For A Safari Party?

Decorating for a safari theme party is going to be a LOT of fun. There are a lot of safari party supplies that can be purchased, as well as using other items found in the dollar store.

Whilst there are some specific party ideas further down the post with decorating ideas, the simplest way to decorate the party space is to stick to the earthy colors. Think of brown, green, yellow, orange and white as a good starting point and it’s easy to build from there.

It is a good idea to create a party backdrop . This can easily be achieved using budget friendly plastic tablecloth’s in your chosen party colors.

Next create some tissue paper garlands to hang around the area and suddenly you already have the perfect jungle feel. Make some vines by twisting together brown craft paper. Add vine and palm leaves to them for extra effect.

If you have any stuffed safari animals, use them as decoration props. It is also a great idea to look out for them at second hand shops.

Add some animal cutouts, animal print balloons and even some inflatable animals for some extra wild touches to the jungle theme party.

Real Safari Party Ideas

Use these real Safari parties to give you an idea of how to put the party together. Each of these parties takes a slightly different spin on the Safari theme.

The great thing about a themed party is that no two parties are exactly the same!

Typical Jungle Safari Party

Source: A Pumpkin and A Princess

This jungle Safari party is simply amazing. The party decor, the earthy color scheme, the funky cake and the simple yet delicious table display. It all works together perfectly.

The hanging rosettes are totally gorgeous and look awesome set back against the striking green leaves.

Cheetah Party

Source: A Small Snippett .

Another great way to hold a Safari party is to focus on one aspect of Safari. In this instance it’s the cheetah.

The cheetah print everywhere looks awesome. It’s even included on the ties on the chairs. Having the cheetah print as the focal point ensures that everything blends together perfectly.

Madagascar Safari Party

Source: Love Every Detail

For some amazing Safari party ideas, you can’t go past Madagascar. This is certainly a party that is deep in Safari.

The cupcake toppers are sensational and even the ‘dirt’ cups look delicious. Everything is matched perfectly with printable’s and the colors are bold and striking.

Venturing up to this party table, you are literally walking into the jungle.

Baby Shower Safari Party

Source: Stix N Pops

A Safari party makes a gorgeous theme for a baby shower.

The cupcake tower with the cake on top is stunning and creates a fantastic table feature. The baby curled up on top of the cake is just adorable.

This is a fun and cheeky party, and would certainly be a lot of fun for a mum to be.

Pastel Safari Party

Source: Grey Grey Designs .

Pastel decoration might not instantly be the decor that comes to mind when you think of a Safari party, but this example goes to show that it can be done.

Everything looks like you would see it in a nursery, the baby spin on the party is simply delightful. The cupcake display has to be my favorite part of the table display.

Safari Party Food Ideas

There are so many fun themed treats that you can make for a Safari party.

Creating theme food adds to the fun and helps to create the jungle atmosphere. For simplicity, stick to finger foods.

Some easy Safari food ideas include:

• Delicious and also fun monkey pops . This is an easy recipe and the monkey heads are available as a free printable.
• Kids love jello and this is so easy to have available at the party. Stick to jello in safari colors where possible.
• Have a fruit station. Fruit will always be found on safari, so this is a great excuse to get some healthy food into the kids.
• It would also be fun to use some vegetables and turn them into animal faces. For example, use carrot sticks to create a lion’s face with drip bowls for eyes, cauliflower for the nose and slices of mushrooms for the mouth. Or perhaps slice a cucumber and lay it out as a snake.
• Obtain an animal cookie cutter of choice for some fun cookies

Fun Safari Games & Activites

To throw the most awesome Safari party, it’s important to have some games. Examples include:

• A spin on Simon Says. Instead of saying Simon says, you could say, “The jungle says to swing your arms like an elephant”.
• Safari animal scavenger hunt.
• Sleeping lions. Play some music and when the music stops, the kids fall to the ground and lay as still as they can.
• Jungle Animal Charades
• Pin the tail on a (Safari animal of choice)
• Have someone available for face painting an assortment of jungle animal face masks.
• Create a craft table where the kids can color in jungle animal masks.
• Make a pair of binoculars by taping two toilet rolls together and fixing some string to the ends so they can hang around the children’s necks.
• Create a photo booth with safari props and animal party hats.

Safari-Themed Birthday Party Favors

Kid love to explore their goodie bags end the end of a party. There are lots of party favors that you could include that match the theme of the party such as:

• Plastic little animals
• Animal stickers
• Tiger tails
• Animal tattoos
• Animal eye masks

A Safari party is a whole lot of fun for the entire family. The kids might like to dress up in their favorite Safari animal costume or as a Safari explorer to really feel like they are entering the jungle together.

With the striking party decor and some fun themed food and games, this party is going to be a roaring success.

Need some ideas for a different theme? Check out more  party ideas  for a ton of inspiration with different themes, games and more.

Let’s keep in touch. Did you love these safari party ideas? Sign up to the weekly newsletter to be kept up to date with other easy party ideas, decorations and recipes. You will also have access to the library of free printables. See you there!

About Catherine Holt

Catherine Holt is the founder of Smart Party Planning . She is a stay at home mum with a passion for celebrating life’s little moments, with creative yet budget friendly ideas. Catherine often has a camera in hand capturing everyday events and is a self obsessed chocoholic! She loves connecting with other mum's on the blog and sharing party planning tips and tricks. Get all the answers to every aspect of party planning with her eBook today! If you want to hold a party with that ‘wow’ factor and have it tailored to the person you’re holding it for then this eBook is for you. Let Catherine take the stress and headache out of organizing your next party or event.

Connect with her on Twitter , Facebook , and Pinterest .

August 9, 2014 at 4:17 pm

I may never go to a safari party, but I sure enjoyed all these options! Thanks for coming and linking up at The Weekend Social. All posts get pinned in our pinterest board! Please be sure to come back next week starting Thursdays at 9PM EST on culinaryflavors.gr ! I hope to see you there!

August 9, 2014 at 8:29 pm

Thanks Katerina. They look so much fun don’t they! You never know, there could always be an excuse for a safari party 🙂

August 10, 2014 at 7:53 am

So cute! Thanks for linking up with The Caffeinated Crafters this week!

August 10, 2014 at 8:56 pm

Thanks April, glad you could stop by 😉

August 12, 2014 at 10:26 am

Awesome round up of Safari Parties! Thanks for sharing them at the Teach Me Tuesday Linky Party:) Hope you can join us again starting tonight!

August 12, 2014 at 7:17 pm

Thanks Adrian. I love the round up posts and seeing what other bloggers are creating 🙂

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Everything You Need for a Safari Themed Birthday Party

Lauren Miolene

We’ve all been to dozens of kids birthday parties , and we can probably agree they get repetitive quickly. That's why it’s always best to have a fun and exciting theme to make it stand out from the rest. If you’ve ever thought about hosting a safari themed birthday party, take this as your sign to get adventurous!

If your kiddo’s birthday is soon, take a walk on the wild side this year by hosting a safari themed birthday party using creative ideas from The Bash. Start with an outdoor venue, live animals, and of course plenty of safari inspired food and drinks. Use our handy kids birthday party checklist as a guide, so you don’t miss a thing.

Keep reading for safari themed birthday party ideas…

Safari themed venue.

You’ll want to establish a home base for this safari themed birthday party. We recommend keeping the festivities outside to enhance the adventurous setting.

Having the safari themed birthday outside just makes sense, so take the party to the park! Visit your local park that has plenty of tables, a pavilion, and a play area to celebrate the guest of honor. The park is also the perfect location so guests have ample space to run around and play.

You can never go wrong by hosting your child’s birthday party in your own backyard with the fresh air and sunlight. Sometimes the comfort of your own home makes the best party venue for everyone. Spend the day outside and easily transition the get-together inside depending on the weather.

If your child is an animal lover, organize this birthday bash at the zoo. Contact zoos in your area to set up a tour with different event packages. Visit different  website to read about animal interactions, a private party space, and other fun surprises.

Safari Theme Party Outfit

You’re probably wondering what to wear for a safari themed party, and the answer is all in the details!

Safari Hats

Invite guests to bring their dress up safari hats or take a trip to your local party store to distribute at the celebration. Your child and their friends will love this special touch that will get them into the safari spirit and provide additional protection from the sun. This creative touch also doubles as a party favor!

Animal Print, Camouflage, and Neutrals

Tap into the adventure for this safari theme with animal print, camouflage clothing, or neutral colors. Ask parents to dress their kiddos in these wild prints to help complete the safari aesthetic.

Safari Vests

To feel the part, guests will have to look the part. Stock up on children’s safari vests from Amazon so everyone can look like a wildlife explorer. These vests come complete with badges, patches, and plenty of pockets to keep some extra goodies in.

To complete any safari ensemble, you’ll need a set of binoculars. Of course guests can bring their own pair if they have them, but you can also distribute them in goodie bags so they can be used during the party. Shop binocular party favors on Amazon so everyone can have their own set.

Safari Theme Party Entertainment

These safari theme party entertainment ideas are guaranteed to bring a roaring good time.

Live Animals

This safari party requires animals, we don’t make the rules! Take a look on The Bash for live animals that can make a special appearance at the birthday celebration. Communicate with different animal handlers to decide which types of animals make the most sense for the faux-safari party. Choose from monkeys, reptiles, and much more!

Find Live Animals

Bounce House

The kids will feel like queens and kings of the jungle with an epic bounce house at the celebration. Browse various party inflatables including obstacle courses and waterslides that will match the safari themed birthday party. Jumping like kangaroos all day is the perfect way to release some of their energy.

Find Bounce Houses

Let the kids (and adults) unleash their inner animals by transforming them into their favorites! Face paint artists on The Bash use non-toxic paint to turn guests into safari creatures like lions, and tigers, and bears—oh my!

Find Face Painters

Photo Booth

A photo booth is exactly what this party needs to help create the safari feeling. Rent a photo booth for the day that will provide safari themed backdrops and props for an immersive wildlife experience.

Find Photo Booths

Allow the kids the opportunity to try different foods from various types of carts. From cotton pizza, to snow cones, and even donuts, party guests will love the freedom of choosing their own party food. Book your child’s favorites on The Bash.

Find Food Carts

Safari Theme Party Activities

Incorporate these safari theme party activities that will keep guests of all ages occupied and entertained.

You’ll need some sort of transportation for this safari adventure! Charge up your child’s mini trucks and cars, or shop safari vehicles on Amazon for guests to drive around the yard in. Block off an area with plenty of space so parents can keep an eye on the little ones.

Animal Charades

Put everyone’s acting skills to the test! A few rounds of animal charades is the perfect activity for this safari themed birthday party. Write various safari animals on a piece of paper for guests to randomly choose and act out. Their friends will have a ton of fun guessing and laughing about what animal they are.

Scavenger Hunt

Send the little explorers on a safari themed expedition during the party. Break everyone into groups, give them riddles to solve, and watch as they follow along to find the prize. You can keep this activity safari themed, but any type of scavenger hunt will work.

Outdoor Activities

Hosting your party outside means there will be plenty of space for all kinds of games and activities. Set up stations with things you probably already have like hula hoops, jump ropes, and other fun yard games that will keep everyone occupied.

Safari Theme Party Decorations

Get wild with these safari theme party decorations that will make this birthday extra special.

Any birthday party, especially a kid’s, needs balloons! Balloons are one of the best decor options because they are fairly easy to purchase or even assemble yourself. For this safari theme, use various shades of brown, green, and orange, or any other color you might find in the wild. You can also get balloons shaped like typical safari animals to incorporate. Details like this will help bring the wild theme to life!

Pro tip: Hire an event planner through The Bash that is an expert in assembling unique balloon arrangements.

Stuffed Animals

The key for any event decor is to make use of things you might already have. Incorporate your child's stuffed animals throughout the space to capture the safari theme. Find jumbo size plush animals including tigers, giraffes, and elephants that everyone will want to get a picture with.

One of the best places to incorporate themed decor for an outdoor party is on the tables. Whether you decide on multiple small tables or one large one, incorporate animal inspired tableware for guests to use. Shop animal print utensils , napkins, and tablecloths that will make the celebration pop.

For this safari, you can also use details like vines, pampas grass, and compasses for a wild dining experience.

Any experienced explorer most likely spends the majority of their time in a tent. Play into the safari theme by setting up tents in the outdoor space for a backdrop. Arrange a few blankets, pillows, and small activities like coloring books that will help keep everyone entertained.

Safari Theme Party Food and Drinks

Make sure there is plenty of fuel for the explorers at the safari themed birthday party.

Safari Themed Birthday Cake

You’re going to want to incorporate the safari theme into every party detail, including the cake. Place an order from your favorite bakery ahead of time to ensure there will be plenty of sugary animals, fake vines, and other wild accents on the birthday cake.

Dinosaur Chicken Nuggets

Who says dinosaurs can’t be invited to the safari party? Chicken nuggets are one of the most loved kid’s foods that are easy to make because all you have to do is pop them in the oven! Serve with different sauces, french fries, and maybe some broccoli trees.

It’s important that a safari explorer keeps plenty of snacks on hand that are easy to travel with, for example, trail mix. Make your own by purchasing a variety of nuts, dried fruit, and small candies. You can also set up a trail mix bar including separate ingredients so guests can make their own take home bag.

This dessert is a delicious DIY treat! All you’ll need to do is add crushed Oreos, gummy worms, and candy rocks on the top of a pudding cup to look like mud. If you don’t prepare these beforehand, kids will love decorating and customizing their own.

Ants on a Log

One of the best snacks for kids usually incorporates them being hiddenly healthy. Make a childhood classic of ants on a log that will help fuel the little explorers during the safari themed birthday party. All this classic entails is spreading peanut butter on a celery stick, and topping with raisins. This snack is easy to customize because you can easily swap the peanut butter with hummus in case of any allergies.

“Jungle Juice”

Whip up a big batch of kid-friendly jungle juice to quench everyone’s thirst. Add any ingredients you want; fruit juice, Gatorade, fresh juice, soda, the possibilities are endless. Serve in a beverage dispenser with a spout so kids will be able to easily refill their canteens. For an adults only drink, try adding champagne for a delicious and fruity mimosa.

Animal Crackers

Who doesn’t love animal crackers? Arrange a platter of plain and frosted animal crackers with different types of dessert dip. Guests will enjoy this sweet treat by dipping their cookie in edible brownie batter, cookie dough, and cheesecake dip.

Banana Splits

This safari themed birthday party will make everyone go absolutely bananas! Your child and their friends will love a homemade banana split that is the perfect treat to end the day.

Safari Themed Party Favors

You’ll definitely want to toss a few of these safari themed party favors into everyone’s goodie bags.

Custom Canteens

Once everyone RSVPs and the guest list is complete, place an Etsy order for customized canteens with everyone’s name. Kids will love having their own custom canteen to drink out of and make them feel like they are on a real safari.

Animal Bubbles

Little kids love bubbles, so give them their own to play with! Find animal inspired bubble bottles on Amazon for guests to use during and after the party.

Animal Ears

Once the face painter turns the kids into their favorite animals, give them ears to match. Visit your local party store or place an online order for lion ears, tigers, giraffes, and more. Try to stock up on a variety so everyone can choose what animal they want to be.

1st Birthday Safari Theme Party: Wild One

Turning one year old is wild! That’s why “Wild One” is such a popular first birthday party theme. You can easily incorporate these same safari ideas into this milestone occasion, but you’re not going to want to forget these details.

If you’ve seen kiddos go wild and destroy their gorgeous birthday cake, that’s exactly why smash cakes have become popular. Smash cakes are typically a smaller, homemade cake specially made for the guest of honor. After the proud parents help blow out the candle, let the one year old celebrate their special day with their own cake. It’s completely up to them if they play with it or eat it, but this way it saves plenty of birthday cake for the other guests to enjoy.

Photographer

A first birthday only happens once, so you’re going to want to remember it forever. Hire a photographer to capture every detail: the decor, the cake, and of course all the smiling faces in attendance! Miss no photo opportunity with our helpful 1st birthday picture list for ideas.

Photo Backdrop

You’re only going to be able to host a “wild one” themed birthday for your baby once, so make a photo backdrop for plenty of pictures. Create your own using a safari background, plush animals, and a big metallic “1” balloon. This backdrop will also act as a focal point in the party space.

Find more kids’ party ideas and inspiration here on The Bash.

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