SWAHILI TRANSLATION GUIDE
As you embark on your African safari, you'll likely encounter Swahili words and phrases that will enrich your experience and help you connect with the local culture. We do recommend buying a Swahili translation book from Amazon before you're traveling however, you can also use Google Translation. Here are a few common Swahili words and phrases that you may hear along your journey:
Habari – Hello
Kwaheri – Goodbye
Ndio – Yes
Sawa – Okay
Hapana – No
Tafadhali – Please
Asante – Thank you
Karibu – You’re welcome
Samahani – I’m sorry
Sijui – I don’t know
Mtu – Person
Hapa – Here
Pale – There (if it’s close)
Huko – There (if it’s far)
Siku – Day
Wiki – Week
Mwezi – Month
Leo – Today
Jana – Yesterday
Juzi – The day before yesterday
Kesho – Tomorrow
Saa – Hour
Dakika – Minute
Saa – Time
Bafu – Bathroom
Nyumbani – Home
Nchi – Country
Hoteli – Hotel
Simu – Phone
Kitu – Something
Nyumba – House
Gari – Car
Chakula – Food
Chai – Tea
Maji – Water
Bwana – Husband
Mke – Wife
Jina – Name
Kabla – Before
Baada – After
Sasa – Now
Mwanamke –Woman
Mwanaume – Man
Mzee – Old man/respectful way of referring to a man
Mama – Old woman/respectful way of referring to a woman
Msichana – Girl
Kijana – Boy
Rafiki – Friend
Duka – Shop
Kazi – Work
Pahali – Place
Shule – School