Saskia Swahili is the official language of Tanzania and is widely spoken across the country. English is not! So whether you’re going on a safari, exploring Zanzibar, or interacting with locals, learning a few essential Swahili phrases will enrich your experience and help you connect with the friendly Tanzanian people. Here are some key Swahili phrases to know.
- Welcome – “Karibu”
“Karibu” (pronounced: kah-ree-boo) – means “welcome,” or “you’re welcome”, and you’ll hear it in many different situations, from entering someone’s home to being offered food or even thanked for a small gesture.
Insider tip: You’ll hear karibu a lot – in all kinds of circumstances!
- Hello – “Jambo” / “Habari”
“Jambo” (pronounced: jahm-boh) – a common greeting used to say hello.
“Habari” (pronounced: hah-bah-ree) – means “How are you?” or “What’s the news?”
Response: “Nzuri” (pronounced: n-zoo-ree), meaning “Good” or “Fine.”
- Thank you – “Asante”
“Asante” (pronounced: ah-sahn-teh) – the word for “Thank you.”
Response: “Karibu” – yes, again! It also means “You’re welcome.”
- Please – “Tafadhali”
“Tafadhali” (pronounced: tah-fah-dah-lee) – Use this polite phrase to say “Please” when asking for something.
- Yes – “Ndio”
“Ndio” (pronounced: n-dee-oh) – Simply means “Yes.”
- No – “Hapana”
“Hapana” (pronounced: hah-pah-nah) – The word for “No.”
- How much is this? – “Hii ni bei gani?”
“Hii ni bei gani?” (pronounced: hee nee beh-ee gah-nee) – Useful when shopping or in a market. It means, “How much is this?”
- Excuse me / Sorry – “Pole”
“Pole” (pronounced: poh-leh) – A polite way to say “Excuse me” or express sympathy. You might hear it if you trip, are unwell, or simply look tired.
This word has grown into one of my favourite parts of Swahili culture – it captures such genuine care. I haven’t found an equivalent in any other language.
- Slowly, slowly – “Pole pole”
“Pole pole” (pronounced: poh-leh poh-leh) – A phrase you’ll hear often in Tanzania, especially on hikes or when adjusting to the pace of local life. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down, take your time, and enjoy the journey.
- Goodbye – “Kwaheri”
“Kwaheri” (pronounced: kwah-heh-ree) – The word for “Goodbye.”
Response: “Kwaheri” or “Tutaonana” (pronounced: too-tah-oh-nah-nah) meaning “See you later.”
Conclusion
Learning just a few essential Swahili phrases can make a world of difference during your trip to Tanzania. Locals will appreciate the effort, and you’ll feel more connected to the culture. Practice these simple phrases, and you’ll be ready to navigate your Tanzanian adventure with confidence – pole pole, of course!
You may also like:
