Common Swahili Phrases to Know Before Visiting Zanzibar

Speak Like a Local & Connect Deeper with the Island

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar, knowing a few Swahili phrases can make your experience more authentic, respectful, and memorable. While many locals speak English, speaking even a little Kiswahili shows appreciation for the culture and it’s often met with wide smiles and warm hearts.

Here’s your friendly guide to essential Swahili phrases that will help you navigate the island, spark conversations, and maybe even bargain in the markets like a pro!

🌅 The Friendly Basics

These everyday greetings and responses are used throughout the day and will immediately win you local friends.

English                        Swahili

Hello                             Jambo / Hujambo

How are you?                 Habari gani?

I’m fine Nzuri /               Salama

Thank you                       Asante

Thank you very much     Asante sana

Please                             Tafadhali

Yes / No                          Ndiyo / Hapana

Goodbye                           Kwa heri / Baadaye

🌟 Tip: Always smile while using these greetings. In Zanzibar, kindness is part of the culture.

🍛 Dining & Food Phrases

Want to try local dishes or street snacks? Use these phrases when ordering food or exploring Zanzibar’s famous spice flavors.

English                Swahili

I’m hungry           Ninasikia njaa

Water, please       Maji, tafadhali

It’s delicious!        Kitamu sana!

What is this?        Hii ni nini?

I’m vegetarian       Mimi ni mlaji mboga tu

No spicy               Bila pilipili

🌶️ Pro Tip: If you love food, check out our blog on Zanzibar’s must-try local foods and get ready to eat like a Swahili!

🛍️ Bargaining & Shopping

From Stone Town’s spice market to local crafts, a few Swahili words can make your shopping more fun and respectful.

English                              Swahili

How much is this?            Hii ni bei gani?

That’s too expensive           Ghali sana!

Can you lower the price?     Punguza bei tafadhali

I like it                                Napenda hii

I don’t want                          Sitaki

👜 Insider Tip: Bargaining is part of the culture but always keep it friendly and fair.

🚖 Getting Around

Whether you’re taking a dala-dala (local bus) or a guided tour, these travel phrases will come in handy.

English                              Swahili

Where is…?                     …iko wapi?

I want to go to the beach     Nataka kwenda pwani

Stop here                            Simama hapa

Left / Right                         Kushoto / Kulia

How far is it?                       Ni mbali kiasi gani?

🧡 Show Respect & Make Friends

Zanzibaris appreciate politeness and humility. Here are some beautiful phrases to express gratitude and respect:

English                         Swahili

Excuse me / Sorry         Samahani

You’re welcome              Karibu

No problem                    Hakuna shida

Beautiful                        Nzuri sana

Friend                            Rafiki

Peace                             Amani

💬 Did you know? “Hakuna Matata” is Swahili! It literally means “No worries”and in Zanzibar, it’s a way of life.

💬 Learn the Words That Open Doors in Zanzibar

In Zanzibar, a simple “Jambo” (Hello) can earn you a warm smile. A respectful “Asante sana” (Thank you very much) can build trust. These are not just words they’re keys to deeper conversations, genuine hospitality, and unforgettable moments.

By learning a few basic Swahili phrases, you’re not just speaking you’re connecting, showing respect, and becoming part of the rhythm of island life.

🗝️ These words open markets, hearts, and hidden gems far from the tourist trail.

🏝️ Why Learning Swahili Enriches Your Trip

Learning a few words not only makes your interactions smoother it opens doors to heartwarming exchanges, cultural understanding, and unforgettable moments. Locals light up when visitors make an effort, no matter how small.

Whether you’re on a romantic escape, family adventure, or solo exploration, Swahili phrases connect you to the soul of Zanzibar.

🚫 Challenges of Visiting Zanzibar Without Knowing Common Swahili Phrases

While Zanzibar is a warm and welcoming destination, not knowing even basic Swahili can make your experience less immersive and, at times, a bit frustrating. Here’s why:

Limited Communication in Rural Areas

While English is spoken in tourist hotspots like Stone Town and beach resorts, many locals in villages, markets, and smaller guesthouses speak mostly Swahili. Without basic phrases, even simple requests like asking for directions or ordering food can become confusing.

Less Cultural Connection

Zanzibaris value politeness and personal interaction. A friendly “Jambo” (Hello) or “Asante sana” (Thank you very much) can open hearts and spark smiles. Without them, your experience may feel more transactional than relational and you might miss the chance to connect deeply with locals.

Bargaining Becomes Difficult

Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, spices, or seafood, bargaining is part of the local culture. Without knowing phrases like “Punguza bei tafadhali” (Please lower the price) or “Ghali sana!” (Too expensive!), you might overpay  or feel awkward negotiating.

Missed Local Experiences

Many authentic tours, such as village walks, spice farm visits, and home-cooked meals, are guided by locals who may speak limited English. Without understanding basic Swahili, you may miss valuable insights and personal stories.

Potential for Misunderstandings

In restaurants, taxis, or local markets, miscommunication may lead to wrong orders, incorrect prices, or even missed pick-up points. A few phrases like “Hii ni bei gani?”(How much is this?) or “Nataka maji” (I want water) can make things much smoother.

You May Seem Disconnected

Making an effort even just a little to speak Swahili shows respect, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity. Skipping that effort may unintentionally seem dismissive to locals who deeply value courtesy and community.

✅ The Solution Is Simple

You don’t need to be fluent just 10–15 basic phrases can dramatically change how people respond to you and enhance every part of your journey.

🌍Learn Swahili? Make Your Journey More Meaningful

Speaking just a few words of Swahili in Zanzibar goes a long way. It’s more than just language it’s about respect, connection, and cultural immersion. So when your readers reach the end of the blog, your call to action should motivate them with clarity and excitement.

✈️ “Start speaking Swahili like a local grab your free travel phrase guide now!”

🤝 “Break the ice, earn smiles learn the words that open hearts in Zanzibar.”

💬 “Need help pronouncing ‘Karibu’? Chat with us  Zancelebratetours we’ll teach you in 2 minutes!”

📚 “Don’t just visit Zanzibar connect with it. Master these Swahili basics today!”

🌴 “Your adventure starts with ‘Jambo!’ get ready to speak the language of the island.”

Discover more

Show Value make them feel that learning more Swahili words with BBC swahili guide will enrich your travel experience.

Spark emotion highlight the joy of greeting someone with a warm “Jambo!” Master these Swahili basics today with Zancelebratetours