KiSwahili is the official language, although most people in commercial areas, such as major tourist destinations, generally speak English.
The terms Swahili and KiSwahili are used interchangeably, though the term Swahili commonly refers to the people while Kiswahili refers to the language. All the guides and transfer drivers generally speak English and are always eager to give information. But most of the population speak KiSwahili and very little English.
KiSwahili is a fairly easy language where you say it as you spell it, so it's easy to pick up phrases to help get you by. Here are some to get you started:
Jambo – Hello
Karibu – You’re welcome
Sante – Thank you