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A Little Swahili Goes a Long Way: Your Safari Phrase Guide

Sometimes the simplest way to connect with people when you travel through Tanzania, is also the easiest: greeting someone in their own language. You don’t need to be fluent, you don’t need perfect pronunciation, and nobody expects you to hold long conversations. But even a couple of phrases can break the ice, spark laughter, and show respect for the culture you’re visiting.


Think of it as packing an invisible gift in your safari bag: the gift of effort. Tanzanians love it when guests try their language, even just a little, and you’ll notice the difference right away in how warmly you’re received.


A female traveler and photographer receiving a warm touch from a local Tanzanian girl.


Greetings that go a long way

In Tanzania, greetings are everything. You’ll often notice conversations starting with “How are you?” before diving into anything else. Try these:


  • Jambo! — Hello! (It’s the classic tourist greeting, friendly but obvious. Locals don’t really use it with each other, but they’ll smile when you do.)

  • Habari? — How are you?

  • Nzuri! — I’m good!

  • Asante (sana) — Thank you (very much)

  • Karibu! — Welcome! (You’ll hear this a lot, whether at your lodge, a small roadside café or when meeting people on the street.)

  • Jina lako nani? — What’s your name?

  • Jina langu ni (your name) — My name is (your name)

  • Mama — To refer to an adult woman

  • Mimi ni mBelgiji — I’m Belgian


Tip: Even if you only remember one word, make it asante. Gratitude goes a long way everywhere.


A conversation between a Belgian lady and a local Maasai men in Tanzania with the jaw-dropping scenery of the great rift vally on the background.


Friendly everyday phrases

These swahili phrases are the ones that make you sound less like a tourist on safari and more like someone who really wants to connect:


  • Pole pole — Slowly, slowly (this is basically the safari motto, and you’ll hear it often!)

  • Hakuna matata — No worries! (Yes, Disney made it famous, but it really is used here.)

  • Tafadhali — Please

  • Samahani — Sorry / Excuse me

  • Ndiyo / Hapana — Yes / No

  • Choo kiko wapi? — Where is the toilet? (Trust me, this one comes in handy!)

  • Shingapi? — How much is it? (Perfect for markets or buying fruit along the road.)

  • Chakula kitamu — The food is delicious

  • Kuna maji baridi/moto? — Is there cold/hot water?

  • Safari njema — Have a good journey / Enjoy your trip!



Swahili on safari

Here’s where the fun begins — words you can use with your guide or just to impress your travel buddies:


  • Twende! — Let’s go!

  • Angalia simba! — Look, a lion!

  • Tembo — Elephant

  • Chui — Leopard

  • Twiga — Giraffe

  • Nyati — Buffalo (part of the “Big Five”)

  • Duma — Cheetah

  • Wapi? — Where?

  • Hapa — Here


Try dropping these into your game drives — your guide will love it, and you’ll feel a little closer to the adventure.


Safari guide explaining something to a guest with ol doinyo lengai on the background.


The golden rule

If you remember nothing else, remember this: always greet people first. A simple “Mambo!” (another casual hello) before asking a question is part of Tanzanian culture, and it’s always appreciated. Even if you only say one word, that moment of respect sets the tone for the whole interaction.



Ready to bring your safari to life?

Knowing a few Swahili phrases is just the start. What really makes a trip unforgettable is how it’s planned. At ReWild Away, we’ll help you craft a journey that combines wildlife, landscapes, and cultural moments, so you can practice your Swahili while fully immersing yourself in the experience.


Whether it’s spotting the Big Five, sharing a laugh with locals, or discovering hidden corners of Tanzania, we’ll make sure every moment feels personal and effortless.



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