Twenty Swahili phrases that change your trip
By Innocent, Founder & Lead Guide23 June 20254 min readTravel Tips
1. Start with greetings: 'Jambo' or better 'Habari?' (how are things),…
Start with greetings: 'Jambo' or better 'Habari?' (how are things), answered 'Nzuri' (good). To an elder, 'Shikamoo', answered 'Marahaba'.
2. 'Asante sana' is thank you very much; 'Karibu' is you…
'Asante sana' is thank you very much; 'Karibu' is you are welcome, and you will hear it constantly.
3. 'Pole pole' means slowly, and it is close to a…
'Pole pole' means slowly, and it is close to a national philosophy. 'Hakuna matata' really is used.
4. On safari: 'simba' lion, 'tembo' elephant, 'twiga' giraffe, 'chui' leopard,…
On safari: 'simba' lion, 'tembo' elephant, 'twiga' giraffe, 'chui' leopard, 'kifaru' rhino, 'nyati' buffalo.
5. Tanzanians are generous with beginners
Tanzanians are generous with beginners. Five words used badly will get you further than perfect English.
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Innocent, Founder & Lead Guide
Published 23 June 2025
