English
Kiswahili
You’re very welcome
Karibu sana
Hello
Jambo
Goodbye
Kwaheri
Please
Tafadhali
Thank you
Asante
Yes
Ndiyo
No
Hapana
Excuse me
Samahani
How much does this cost?
Itakua bei gani?
Where is the bathroom?
Chooni ni wapi?
I don’t understand
Sielewi
Food
Chakula
Water
Maji
Doctor
Daktari
Left
Kushoto
Right
Kulia
Straight ahead
Moja kwa moja mbele
Hotel
Hoteli
Danger
Hatari
Emergency
Dharura
I don't eat meat
Sili nyama
Can I get the bill/check?
Naweza kupata bili?
I am lost
Nimepotea
Can I have the menu, please?
Naweza kupata menyu, tafadhali?
Is this spicy?
Je, hii ni pilipili?
Friend
Rafiki
Brother
Kaka
Sister
Dada
Let’s go
Twende
Tuk tuk
Bajaji

Mainland Tanzania - Dos and Don’ts:

Dos:

  1. Greetings: Engage in polite greetings and small talk, which are highly valued.
  2. Dress Modestly: Especially in rural areas, wear clothing that covers knees and shoulders.
  3. Politeness: Use polite phrases like “Tafadhali” (Please) and “Asante” (Thank You).
  4. Respect Elders: Demonstrate respect towards elders by greeting them first.
  5. Photography Etiquette: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Don’ts:

  1. Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Keep affectionate behavior private.
  2. Avoid Negative Talk: About religion, politics, and the government.
  3. Avoid Pointing: Pointing at people or things is considered impolite.
  4. Avoid Raising Your Voice: Maintain a calm and steady tone while speaking.
  5. Avoid Wasting Food: Take only what you can consume when served meals.

Zanzibar - Dos and Don’ts:

Dos:

  1. Dress Conservatively: Particularly for women, wear long skirts or trousers and cover shoulders, especially in Stone Town and other predominantly Muslim areas.
  2. Respect Religious Practices: Be mindful during Ramadan and observe rules regarding eating and drinking in public.
  3. Use Right Hand: For giving and receiving items and when eating.
  4. Greet Properly: Use “Jambo” or “Salam Aleikum” as general greetings.
  5. Respect Beach Etiquette: Use designated tourist beaches for swimming in swimwear.

Don'ts:

  1. Avoid Alcohol in Public: Limit alcohol consumption to tourist areas and hotels.
  2. Avoid Interrupting Prayers: Be respectful of prayer times and religious gatherings.
  3. Avoid Uninvited Photography: Be mindful of people’s privacy and seek permission before snapping photos.
  4. Avoid Importing Plastic: Zanzibar prohibits plastic bags – use reusable bags.
  5. Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Keep personal and affectionate gestures private.

Currency Information: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Basic Details:

  • Symbol: TSh
  • Subunit: 100 senti (cents) = 1 TSh

Understanding Your Expenses:

  • Common Costs: To get a general sense of your spending:
    • A local meal: 5,000 – 15,000 TSh
    • Bottle of water: 500 – 1,000 TSh
    • Short taxi ride: 5,000 – 10,000 TSh

These are estimated costs and may vary based on location and establishments.

Handling Money Safely:

  • ATMs: Available in cities and larger towns. Prefer using ATMs attached to banks for enhanced security.
  • Cash Use: Small expenses, local markets, and remote areas usually require cash.
  • Card Use: Major hotels and restaurants in cities might accept cards. Always have some cash as a backup.

Currency Conversion:

  • Real-Time Rates: Use reliable online converters (e.g., XE.com) or apps for current exchange rates.
  • Exchange Points: Opt for banks, hotel exchange services, or authorized exchange bureaus. Avoid black-market exchanges for security and legality.

Useful Tips:

  • Maintain some Local Currency: Essential for small expenditures and regions without card facilities.
  • Watch for Fees: Be mindful of potential fees when using international cards.
  • Receipts: Retain all exchange and transaction receipts during your stay.

Keep updated with real-time currency rates and ensure to manage your finances safely and smartly during your Tanzanian adventure!

Drinking Water & Dietary Options:

Drinking Water:

  • Safety: Drinking tap water isn’t recommended for travelers in Tanzania.
  • Recommendation: Opt for bottled water, and ensure seals are intact upon purchase.
  • Alternatives: Consider using water purification tablets or portable water filters for sustainability and safety.
  • Caution: Be mindful of ice in drinks, as it may have been made from tap water.

Vegetarian & Special Diets:

  • Availability: Vegetarian options are generally available, especially in tourist-friendly restaurants and hotels.
  • Local Dishes: Explore local vegetarian dishes like “Maharage” (beans), “Mchicha” (spinach with peanut sauce), and various rice and lentil dishes.
  • Communication: Learn or note down phrases like “Sina kula nyama” (I don’t eat meat) to communicate your dietary preferences.
  • Street Food: If exploring street food, look for items like “Ndizi Kaanga” (fried bananas) or “Viazi Vya Rojo” (potatoes with sauce), which are often vegetarian.
  • Pre-planning: For specialized diets (gluten-free, vegan), consider communicating with your accommodation or tour guide in advance.

Allergies and Food Sensitivities:

  • Communication: Ensure to translate and communicate any food allergies clearly to avoid mishaps.
  • Be Prepared: Carry any necessary antihistamines or EpiPens, and make sure they’re easily accessible.
  • Medical Alert: Consider a medical alert bracelet or card in Swahili detailing your allergy for emergency situations.