Guests can attest that Thomson brings the magic of Tanzania to life! The dedicated team in Boston, MA handles the logistics and planning while the expert crew on the ground in Arusha, Tanzania adds invaluable local expertise that transforms every safari into an extraordinary adventure. With a deep knowledge and firsthand experience, the staff in Tanzania ensures your journey is not just seamless, but truly immersive and unforgettable.
Daniel Yamat
Rose Ngilisho
Mary Yamat
To give you the best insight into what to expect on safari, we spoke with Mary Yamat from the accounting department in Boston, Rose Ngilisho, General Manager of Thomson Safaris LTD in Tanzania, and Daniel Yamat, Manager of the Eastern Serengeti Nature Reserve—and Mary’s dad! Their firsthand experiences and local wisdom offer practical advice that can enhance any trip. Whether you’re embarking on your first safari or returning for another adventure, their insights will help you travel with confidence and appreciation.
1. Learn a Few Swahili Words
“It’s always appreciated when visitors try to speak Swahili. Simple words like Asante (Thank you), Mambo (Hi), Karibu (Welcome), or Habari (How are you?) can go a long way. You’ll see how quickly it brings a smile to people’s faces.”
“Swahili is spoken throughout Tanzania; when you visit Eastern Serengeti, we will teach you a handful of words in Maa, which is the language spoken by the surrounding Maasai community. Being familiar with a simple greeting like Sopa (Hello) and Ashe oleng (Thank you) will help facilitate your interactions when visiting a boma or the local market.”
— Mary & Daniel Yamat
2. Be Mindful of Hygiene
“Hygiene practices may differ, so here’s what we recommend:
- Stick to bottled or filtered water.
- Avoid salads and fresh juices unless you are at Gibb’s Farm or Thomson Safaris’ camps.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially before meals.
These little habits can help you avoid unnecessary discomfort during your trip.”
— Mary Yamat & Rose Ngilisho
3. Patience is Key
“Things move at a slower pace in Tanzania compared to the U.S., and that’s okay. Whether it’s waiting for food or other services, take it as an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the moment. You’re on safari to relax, after all!”
— Rose Ngilisho
4. Try Local Cuisine
“Tanzanian food is amazing—rich, flavorful, and cooked with love. If you don’t have allergies or dietary restrictions, give it a try! From pilau to grilled nyama choma (barbecue), there’s so much to enjoy. And don’t worry, your guides can help you choose what to eat if you’re unsure.”
— Mary Yamat
Components of the traditional Tanzanian meal including nyoma choma, kachumbari salad, rice pilaf, chapati bread, pilipili hot sauce, and bamia (okra dish)
5. Connect with People
“Tanzanians are naturally warm and love sharing stories. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with your guide or locals. You might leave with more than just memories—you might gain a new perspective or a deeper connection.”
— Mary Yamat
6. Approach Cultural Experiences with an Open Mind
“I have seen guests hesitant to visit a Maasai home (boma), thinking that they might be intruding. Know that it is totally okay to visit a home in rural Tanzania—the Maasai families always welcome our guests who are interested in learning about what life is like in this part of the world.”
— Daniel Yamat
Travel Like a Local, Experience More
From learning a few words of Swahili to embracing the relaxed pace of life, these simple but valuable pieces of advice can help travelers make the most of their safari. The team in Tanzania is passionate about sharing their country with visitors, and their insights are a great way to ensure a smooth and meaningful adventure.
Ready to experience Tanzania with the best in the business?