A Beautiful Language

Learning Swahili can be a rewarding experience and surprisingly easy for travelers, organizations and government agencies.

Spoken in 12 Countries

Native to
Tanzania, Kenya, Comoros, Mayotte, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Bajuni Islands (part of Somalia), southern Somalia (see Bravanese dialect), Malawi, Madagascar, and Oman.

Has Rich Origins

Swahili has a significant number of loanwords from other languages, mainly Arabic, as well as from Portuguese, English and German. Around fifteen percent of Swahili vocabulary consists of Arabic loanwords, including the name of the language (Ų³ŁŽŁˆŁŽŲ§Ų­ŁŁ„ŁŠ sawāįø„ilÄ«, a plural adjectival form of an Arabic word meaning 'of the coasts').

Has Immense Benefits

Learning Swahili can be rewarding and relatively easy for visitors exploring Tanzania and Kenya. Beyond its practical benefits for communication and cultural engagement, Swahili offers a window into the heart and soul of these vibrant East African nations.

The Language of Connection

Swahili, also known as Kiswahili, holds a special place in the hearts of Tanzanians and Kenyans. It serves as a bridge between different ethnic groups, fostering unity and understanding. As a visitor, learning even basic Swahili phrases can go a long way in building rapport with locals and immersing yourself in the culture.

Essential for Safari Adventures

Both Tanzania and Kenya are renowned for their breathtaking wildlife and safaris. Guides and park rangers often speak Swahili fluently. Learning Swahili terms for animals, directions, and basic communication can enhance your safari experience, enabling you to better connect with your guides and understand the environment.

Cultural Respect

Respect for local customs and traditions is crucial when traveling, and language plays a significant role. Learning Swahili showcases your willingness to engage with local culture, earning you respect and appreciation from the people you meet along your journey.

Easy Pronunciation and Grammar

One of the reasons Swahili is considered easy to learn for visitors is its straightforward pronunciation and grammar. Swahili words are pronounced as they are written, making them accessible even for those without prior experience in African languages. The absence of complex verb conjugations and gender-specific nouns further simplifies the language learning process.

Common Phrases for Travelers

To get you started, here are a few common Swahili phrases that can be incredibly handy for travelers:

  • Jambo! (Hello!)
  • Asante (Thank you)
  • Karibu (Welcome)
  • Tafadhali (Please)
  • Ndiyo (Yes)
  • Hapana (No)
  • Nataka (I want)
  • Lala salama (Goodnight)

Language Learning Resources

We deliver online Swahili lessons designed the way you learn best. Our activities make learning more effective, more personal, and more fun.

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