Most people in Nairobi speak English. However, some local words are such a fabric of the language that Nairobians assume that they’re part of the English language and that you know them. To avoid miscommunication, learn some basic words like sawa (okay), kesho (tomorrow) asante (thank you), Karibu (welcome) and sasa (hello). They’re usually thrown around casually in conversations so don’t panic.

It’s true that local merchants tend to overcharge tourists for certain items. While this may make you feel unhappy and drive you to question the price of everything, what you also need to know is that sometimes haggling too much on the price can also be seen as rude. Like any other merchants, those in Nairobi can get emotional about their craft and its value so don’t overdo it.

Don’t be surprised if you have to be frisked at every building, security checks are very important in Nairobi and also at all airports and especially during your departure or entry at the airport. This came after we had on several occasions be attacked by terrorists some years ago and thus the security had to be tightened. So be calm.

Kenyans don’t really do sweatpants in public. Keep this in mind so that you don’t always feel like the most under-dressed person in the room. Of course, free wear is allowed, Kenyans just care about their appearance, so pack appropriately.

Kenyans love their meat. If you’re a vegetarian,always call ahead and let your host know your dietary requirements, chances are that they are serving meat for dinner. Many restaurants are popping up in order to cater to vegetarians, but for the most part, meat still rules the menus

There are major banks, credit cards accepted, popular fast-food joints like burger king, Kfc and nearly everything you can buy back home. So don’t over pack. There’s no need to drag an oversized suitcase halfway around the world.

This is a tricky one. Kenyans are not overly sensitive about this question, it’s something we acknowledge. However, it does get a bit old, so try not to bring this up at every conversation. Many tourists are fascinated by this concept and tend to ask this question. While it’s not entirely offensive, it is weird. Especially refrain from doing this in a large group of Kenyans. Save it for friends, or people you meet one-on-one.

Jambo is a common way of saying hello but mostly used by tourists.

This is just a tip off. When you say “Jambo” to people here that automatically tells them you are new here and you are a tourist. Alternatively, you can use terms like Mambo, Niaje or sasa. These are all hello terms and they show you are somewhat a veteran. Just a polite defense.

Mobile phone banking is huge in Kenya, so don’t be surprised if people don’t always have cash on them and want to send you money this way instead. It’s also very convenient and safe for you to have some of your money stored this way, so register as soon as you land if you can by purchasing the local sim card so as to even access internet when not in the hotel or during road safari. Your safari guide will assist you in buying in safe shops.