Tanzania
East Africa · Swahili · Tanzanian shilling
Greet elders with shikamoo, use your right hand for everything, and accept that pole pole — slowly, slowly — is a way of life.
Today in Tanzania
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5 phrases you need in Tanzania
- HelloHujambohoo-JAHM-boh
- GoodbyeKwaherikwah-HEH-ree
- PleaseTafadhalitah-fah-DHAH-lee
- Thank youAsanteah-SAHN-teh
- Excuse meSamahanisah-mah-HAH-nee
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Tanzania phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
money
Carry Tanzanian shillings in cash for markets and small towns, plus clean, newer-series US dollar bills — torn or marked notes get refused for visas and safari lodges.
safety
On Kilimanjaro the danger is altitude, not animals — pick a reputable operator with a slow route, and never skimp on acclimatization to save a day's fee.
etiquette
Greetings come first, always: 'shikamoo' to elders (the reply is 'marahaba'), handshakes linger, and ask before photographing people, including Maasai.
connectivity
Pick up a Vodacom or Airtel SIM with passport registration; M-Pesa mobile money is how locals pay, and coverage holds in towns but fades on safari.
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