Explore South Africa like a local: a TikTok creator's fun guide to culture and slang

South Africa is undeniably one of the best countries to explore, with a mix of cultures, languages and traditions. 

Like every country, we have slang words used nationally, regardless of the township or city one comes from.

This shared language even makes it easy for South Africans to recognise each other abroad, even in distant places.

A TikTok content creator by the name of Zaafir Vally is making it easier for visitors to navigate the country and its local culture. 

His videos give non-South Africans practical and humorous tips for exploring the country safely while understanding local terminology.

In one of his videos, the first thing he points out is the versatile use of the word “aweh”. Depending on the context, he shares that it can mean “hello”, “goodbye” or “thank you”, or even be a casual way to acknowledge someone.

The word has different meanings and is understood exclusively by South Africans from all provinces, townships or cities. 

It even inspired music, like Lordkez’s song “Aweh”, which uses it in a romantic context with lines like “Dala what you must, aweh” (do what you must) and “ngi hamba nawe” (I’m leaving with you) . 

This shows how the meaning of “aweh” can shift depending on how it’s said and why.

Safety is another topic he tackles with humour. He warns that if someone approaches with their hands behind their back, it’s often a red flag.

According to Vally, in those moments, not only could your phone be stolen, but your dignity as well. Therefore it’s safe to take a different direction or simply run.

For those who get lost, Google Maps can sometimes be tricky, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the country.

The creator suggests skipping Google Maps and asking the petrol attendants at a garage (petrol station).

They usually know the streets and shortcuts better than any app. He also shares a quirky tip for dealing with dogs, saying a quick firm “voetsek” will usually send them running.

His video also shines the light on South Africa’s unique vocabulary as we have different terms for things such as traffic lights. 

We call those robots, a casual barbecue? That’s a braai for us and of course, dried meat is biltong. 

According to Vally, learning these terms will help visitors blend in and add a bit of local flavour to their everyday experiences.