Safari Party Decorations

1. Mosquito Netting

Hang mosquito netting against the walls or from lighting fixtures to drape across a room.

Or create a safari buffet by setting up party food on a table and hanging mosquito netting around the back half and sides of the table to only allow access from the front. 

2. Citronella Candles & Lanterns

Light up your party with citronella candles ($9.95) to keep the jungle mosquitoes away.

You can also place the candles inside mini lanterns ($3.50 each) set around the party area for authentic safari lighting.

3. Faux Animal Skin Rug or Throw Blanket

Up the exotic factor in your home by tossing a leopard print faux fur throw over a couch for the party.

Or hit up the local fabric district and purchase a faux fur fabric to cut into the shape of an animal fur rug. You only need about 2 yards of fabric to do the trick, which should cost under $10.

4. Safari Critters

The allure of a safari is seeing wildlife up close and personal, but along with the majestic lions and elephants come the smaller critters like frogs, snakes, butterflies and lizards.

We found online stores that sell:

• Small toy frogs for only $2.95 per dozen.

•  48 colorful butterflies for under $10.

• Suction-cup lizards (perfect for adhering to walls and other slick surfaces during the party) for $2.

•  Three 14" rubber snakes for under $2.

The grand total for all the typical safari critters is a mere $17--plus, they would make a great gift for a reptile-loving kid after the party!

Use the plastic critters in your Safari Party décor by:

• Gluing them onto the mosquito netting.
• Sticking suction-cup lizards on the wall as if they're scuttling around.
• Hanging snakes from lighting fixtures, precariously close to dropping on people's heads.

Scatter a few extra reptiles and butterflies among the food table, and the creepy crawler safari feel is complete!

5. Safari Pith Helmets

The most common safari symbol is likely the pith helmet--the tan-colored brimmed hard hat worn by adventurers and explorers alike.

Stock up on a few plastic safari pith helmets for your party, as they make great décor:

• Hang them on the wall in place of your current pictures.
• Turn them upside down to hold food, ice, sauces and beverages.
• Hand them out to guests as they walk in the door to complete their safari outfit.

6. Animal Tracks

Use black construction paper to trace outlines of hoof or paw prints, and cut them out to adhere to hardwood or tile floor surfaces and walls.

Create trails of different tracks throughout the party, even on the food table.