Discovering the Allure of Tanzania: A Multicultural Journey
There are countless breathtaking destinations to explore in our magnificent world, from captivating cityscapes to majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and vast savannahs. Traveling to distant lands exposes us to diverse cultures, unfamiliar languages, and the thrill of the unknown. Africa also offers the best opportunities for experiencing the natural world and its fauna.
The African continent encompasses immense diversity within its 54 countries, which collectively speak approximately 2,000 languages (with 75 having more than a million speakers). Among these languages, including Arabic, French, English, and Hausa, Swahili emerges as a prominent tongue widely spoken throughout East Africa.
20 Safari Terms That Will Take Your Wildlife Experience to the Next Level
Swahili: Embracing Tanzania’s National Language
Swahili holds the status of Tanzania’s national language. With an estimated 200 million Swahili speakers across the African continent, this language remains pervasive. Tanzania itself boasts a tapestry of languages, with over 125 tongues spoken within its borders. Although English is widely understood throughout the country, having a foundation in Swahili basics can greatly enhance communication and foster meaningful interactions with local communities.
Mastering the Swahili Essentials
We have compiled a concise list of fundamental Swahili words and phrases to help you navigate Tanzania with greater ease. Acquiring even a rudimentary understanding of the language will undoubtedly enrich your travel experiences within the country.
Greetings: Building Connections
A warm greeting sets the tone for any interaction, particularly when meeting someone for the first time or seeking assistance in an unfamiliar city. Swahili offers various expressions for “hello,” such as Hujambo, Jambo, Mambo, or Habari. Habari, being the more formal term, is used to greet elders, while Hujambo or Jambo are employed in more informal settings. When approaching someone to ask a question, it is advisable to use the respectful term “habari.”
Courtesies and Pleasantries: Navigating Social Interactions
In addition to greetings, it is essential to be familiar with basic courtesies and pleasantries in Swahili. Expressions like “Habari za asubuhi” (Good morning), “Habari za mchana” (Good afternoon), or “Habari za jioni” (Good evening) can be utilized when extending polite wishes. When asked, “Habari Gani?” (How are you?), a simple response of “nzuri” (good) or “poa” (cool) suffices.
To express gratitude, saying “asante” (thank you) is appropriate, while “asante sana” (thank you very much) conveys a more heartfelt appreciation, which can be reciprocated with “karibu” (you’re welcome).
Communicating Needs and Desires
When engaging in shopping, dining, or exploring local areas, it is essential to have the ability to express yourself. By using the word “Naomba” (I want to) followed by the object or action desired, you can effectively convey your requests. Conversely, “Sitaki” (I don’t want to) can be utilized to decline offers. If you wish to inquire about the price of an item, you may ask, “Ni Shingapi?” (How much does it cost?). Developing a foundation in basic question words like “Nini” (What), “Lini” (When), “Wapi” (Where), “Kwa Nini” (Why), “Nani” (Who), and “Gani” (Which) can enhance your linguistic abilities.
To politely request something, the word “Tafadhali” (please) should be incorporated into your speech.
Savoring Local Cuisine
Exploring Tanzania’s culinary offerings will undoubtedly expose you to various local dishes with unfamiliar names. Equipping yourself with the word “ladha” (delicious) will ensure you can adequately express your delight. While English is often spoken in restaurants, possessing some basic Swahili phrases will prove beneficial when dining at local cafes.

A Culinary Journey: From English to Swahili
To order food or drinks, begin with “Naomba” (I want) followed by the desired item. For instance, if you want to drink water, say “Naomba maji,” while “Naomba kahawa” signifies a request for coffee. Here is a collection of commonly consumed food and drinks translated from English to Swahili:
Food – Chakula
Coffee – Kahawa
Tea – Chai
Beer – Bia
Water – Maji
Milk – Maziwa
Meat – Nyama
Chicken – Kuku
Fish – Samaki
Beef – Ng’ombe
Fruits – Matunda
Vegetables – Mboga
Finding Your Way: Asking for Directions
While embarking on a safari, a personal guide proficient in English is typically present. However, possessing some directional vocabulary can prove advantageous should you venture alone or veer off the beaten path. To ask “Where is my…” simply use the phrase “… ni wapi?”. For instance, when seeking the location of a market, you may ask, “Soko liko wapi?” meaning “Where is the market?”
Wildlife Encounters: Communication in the Safari
No trip to Africa would be complete without witnessing its captivating wildlife in their natural habitats. Developing familiarity with common animal names will undoubtedly enrich your safari experience. The term “angalia” (look) will be repeatedly used during the safari. Your guide may say “Angalia, Tembo” to draw your attention to elephants or “Angalia, Simba” to spot a lion. It is essential not to miss out on spotting a Simba, as elephants are often easier to find.

In the Realm of the Big Five
To expand your animal vocabulary, here are the English/Swahili terms for the Big Five:
Elephant – Tembo
Buffalo – Nyati
Lion – Simba
Rhino – Kifaru
Leopard – Chui
Additional Wildlife Terms:
Giraffe – Twiga
Cheetah – Duma
Hippopotamus – Kiboko
Hyena – Fisi
Warthog – Ngiri
Wildebeest – Nyumbu
Zebra – Pundamilia
Embracing Tanzanian Culture: Common Idioms
Alongside the above expressions, becoming acquainted with a few more terms and phrases will foster seamless communication during your Tanzania safari. To express “yes” or “no” in Swahili, use the words “Ndiyo” and “Hapana” respectively. Nodding your head and saying “Sawa” signifies agreement, while “Sielewi” denotes “I don’t understand.”
Inquiring Minds: Sharing Introductions
If someone asks you “Jina lako ni nani?” (What is your name?), respond accordingly. When asked “Unatoka wapi?” (Where are you from?) you can say “Natoka” followed by your place of origin.
Tailoring Your Tanzania Safari Experience
Devoting some time to learn the beautiful Swahili language will significantly enhance your safari enjoyment. Even a modest attempt to engage with the language will not only guide you in the right direction but also bring smiles to the locals’ faces. Whether you possess a natural talent for languages or not, rest assured that a Tanzania safari is within your reach. At Tanger Safaris, our local guides are readily available to assist with any inquiries, translations, or guidance you may need.
Create Your Bespoke Safari Today
So, why wait any longer? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us and design your perfect safari experience. Whether it’s a family adventure, a romantic honeymoon, or a solitary expedition, we are dedicated to crafting your dream getaway. Contact us now to embark on your extraordinary Tanzania safari journey.
Is it possible to learn Swahili while exploring Tanzania?
Absolutely! Tanzania is an ideal place to learn Swahili. Many safari guides and locals are fluent in English and Swahili, and they are more than happy to teach you some basic phrases and help you practice during your visit.
Is it necessary to speak Swahili fluently to travel in Tanzania?
While fluency in Swahili is not required, learning basic phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience and foster meaningful connections with locals
What are some resources for learning Swahili before visiting Tanzania?
There are various ways to learn Swahili online, like using SwahiliPod101. This website provides Swahili resources such as audio lessons, vocabulary lists, grammar explanations, and YouTube videos. You can also use language apps and guidebooks. Additionally, language schools and cultural centers in major cities offer classes for travelers. Another way to learn is to immerse yourself in local life and practice with native speakers.