Swahili is a National Language in Kenya and Tanzania and thus mostly spoken within the regions. Additionally, some sections in Rwanda also use the language and some words and phrases might come in handy during your stay in East Africa. The following are terms you might hear often during your safari:
Jambo - Hello
Asante - Thank You
Karibu - Welcome
Tafadhali - Please
Jina lako nani? - What is your name?
Hapana - No
Ndiyo - Yes
Kwaheri - Goodbye
Nyati - Buffalo
Duma - Cheetah
Mamba - Crocodile
Tembo/Ndovu - Elephant
Twiga - Giraffe
Kiboko - Hippo
Chui - Leopard
Simba - Lion
Kifaru - Rhino
Punda Milia - Zebra
Chakula - Food
Kifungua Kinywa/Chakula cha asubuhi - Breakfast
Chakula cha mchana - Lunch
Chakula cha jioni - Dinner
Weita - Waiter
