About us
Food Tours in Africa? Yes, Really.
That’s why we created Jiranileo: to invite travelers into homes and neighborhoods to taste something new and hear the vibrant firsthand stories of a continent bursting with creativity and hustle, tradition and change.
We don’t just serve food, we serve connection. Because in Africa, nothing says “welcome” like sharing a meal, and there’s always room for one more at the table.
Let’s Say it Together: Jiranileo
Why Travelers Choose Us
Led by women and youth. Often excluded from tourism, we highlight their knowledge of culture and food while creating new sources of income.
Everyday Africa, up close. We don’t sugarcoat or stage life here. Travelers experience the real African energy and complexities, just as locals live it.
Internationally recognized: Jiranileo has received global awards from the UN Tourism, the Basque Culinary Center, and the World Food Travel Association for our innovative model of inclusive gastronomy tourism.
The Heart Behind the Hustle
Origin: American roots with an adulthood spent in Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia
Passport stamps: 39 countries and counting (including 17 African countries)
Beth in a word: Vivacious (her energy is contagious)
What makes her mouth water: Tanzanian style chicken biryani with a spoonful of atchar.
When she’s not eating: She’s perpetually exploring new countries and fueling her obsession with scuba diving.
Siboginkosi Phiri
Origin: Zambian roots with a Botswanan upbringing
Passport stamps: 7 countries and counting (including 5 African countries)
Sibo in a word: Bubbly (with the volume turned up!)
What makes her mouth water: A steaming plate of nshima with T-bone and lumanda (a delicious Zambian vegetable.)
When she’s not eating: She’s making noise in the best way possible on the dance floor and at home with friends and family.
Hungry for more?
FAQs About Our Company
What does Jiranileo mean?
Jirani means “neighbor” and “leo” means today in Swahili. Our food tours are like getting to know your neighbor, today.
Not to geek out too much, but these 2 words are representative of many languages spoken across the continent.
- Swahili is a major language in Africa spoken by over 200 million people in 10 countries.
- The word “Jirani” has Arabic roots (“jaara”), and Arabic is spoken by over 150 million people across Africa.
- The word “leo” is rooted in Bantu languages, which are spoken by over 350 million people across Africa. Several African countries use a similar word for “today” in their dialects
How can I find out when you are expanding into more African countries?
We have a vision of starting food tours in every country in Africa. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed on our expansion plans.
How can I become a host or guide for a food tour in my country?
We would love to receive your recommendations for new hosts and guides. At minimum, we require that the person lives in or near a tourist destination or capital city of any African country, is outgoing and friendly, and is passionate about their traditional food.
Kindly note that you cannot recommend yourself, but you can refer a friend or relative or a women’s or youth group. We also welcome referrals from NGOs, community organizations, and government representatives. Visit our Contact Us page to see the requirements and to submit your recommendations.
I’m a travel agent. How can I become a reseller of Jiranileo food tours?
We welcome partnerships with travel agents within Africa and across the world. Contact us and we’ll send you more information.
I’m an influencer and content creator. How can I become an affiliate?
We welcome partnerships with influencers and content creators within Africa and across the world. Contact us and we’ll send you more information.