Planning a trip to South Africa is thrilling — the landscapes, the wildlife, the food, the people. But there’s one small thing that can make your experience even richer: knowing a few Afrikaans phrases before you land.
Afrikaans is one of South Africa’s 11 official languages, and while almost everyone you meet will speak English, greeting someone in their home language changes the entire tone of the interaction. It’s not about perfection; it’s about effort. And South Africans genuinely appreciate the attempt.
This guide gives you 15 essential English to Afrikaans phrases, clear pronunciations, and cultural context so you can travel with confidence. Whether you’re exploring Cape Town’s winelands, driving the Garden Route, or safari-ing in Kruger, these phrases will open doors, spark smiles, and help you navigate everyday situations like a seasoned traveller.
Why Afrikaans Matters for Your South African Adventure
You might be wondering: why bother learning Afrikaans if English is widely spoken? It’s a fair question. The short answer is that speaking a few words of Afrikaans is like holding a key to genuine connection.
Afrikaans is the third most spoken home language in South Africa, with around 7 million native speakers and millions more who use it as a second language. It’s particularly dominant in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and parts of Gauteng. When you order a coffee in Afrikaans in Stellenbosch or ask for directions in Afrikaans in Bloemfontein, you’re signalling respect for the culture — and people notice.
Key takeaway: Learning Afrikaans phrases isn’t a chore; it’s a travel hack that transforms you from a tourist into a welcomed guest.
There’s also a practical side. You’ll hear Afrikaans everywhere — on radio stations, in shop chatter, on road signs, and in place names like “Graaff-Reinet” and “KwaZulu-Natal” (which have Afrikaans and Dutch roots). Understanding basic words helps you decode the world around you, making your trip smoother and far more immersive.
A Crash Course in Afrikaans Pronunciation
Afrikaans is a Germanic language that evolved from Dutch, but its pronunciation is friendlier and more streamlined than its European cousin. Here’s what you need to know before we dive into the phrases.
The most distinctive sound is the g, which is pronounced from the back of the throat, similar to the “ch” in the Scottish “loch” or the Spanish “jota”. It can feel intimidating at first, but don’t stress — locals will understand you even if your g is softer than theirs.
Vowels are mostly short and crisp. The “a” sounds like “uh” (as in “about”), the “e” can sound like “eh” or “ee” depending on context, and the “i” is always a short “ih”. Double vowels are simply held longer, like “aa” in “kaap” (cape).
Here are three quick rules to boost your confidence:
- Stress falls on the first syllable of most words, so “Dankie” (thank you) is “DAHN-kee”, not “dahn-KEE”.
- The “r” is rolled slightly, but not as dramatically as in Spanish. A gentle tap is perfect.
- Word order is flexible in casual speech, so you don’t need to overthink grammar — just say the words.
And a bonus tip: Afrikaans speakers are incredibly forgiving. They know their language is unique and simply love hearing visitors try it. Your best approach is confidence with a smile.
The 15 Essential Phrases: Your English to Afrikaans Survival Kit
We’ve grouped the 15 phrases into five practical categories so you can find exactly what you need in the moment. From greetings to emergencies, these words cover the majority of everyday travel situations.
Greetings and Small Talk
1. Hello — Hallo (HAH-loh)
You’ll use this one constantly. “Hallo” works in pretty much any situation — from walking into a shop to greeting a game ranger. It’s informal but never rude, making it the perfect all-rounder.
2. Goodbye — Totsiens (TOT-seens)
This is the classic Afrikaans farewell, literally meaning “until we see again”. You can also use “Baai” (BYE) for a casual goodbye, but “Totsiens” carries warmth and authenticity. Use it when leaving a restaurant, a guesthouse, or a friendly conversation.
3. How are you? — Hoe gaan dit? (HOO khawn dit)
This is the go-to conversation starter. The response you’ll most often hear is “Goed, dankie” (good, thanks). Even if your small talk doesn’t go further, exchanging this greeting shows effort and creates immediate goodwill.
4. Thank you — Dankie (DAHN-kee)
Arguably the most important word in any language. Use “Dankie” everywhere — for service, for directions, for a memorable meal. For extra politeness, say “Baie dankie” (BY-uh DAHN-kee), meaning “thank you very much”. You’ll hear this phrase dozens of times a day, and it’s a beautiful one to mirror.
5. Cheers! — Gesondheid (khe-SONT-hayt)
This word literally means “health”, and it’s used when toasting with drinks. Whether you’re clinking glasses of Cape wine at a vineyard or sharing a cold beer at a braai (barbecue), “Gesondheid” is the phrase you need. Don’t worry about your g; just say it with enthusiasm.
Politeness Essentials
6. Please — Asseblief (AH-suh-bleef)
This is one of those words that instantly marks you as polite and respectful. You’ll use it when ordering food, asking for help, or requesting anything at all. Pair it with “Dankie” and you’ve mastered the foundation of courteous interaction.
7. Excuse me — Verskoon my (fer-SKWAHN may)
Use this to get someone’s attention, apologise for a small bump, or politely squeeze past someone. It’s the verbal equivalent of a gentle nudge — necessary in busy markets, crowded streets, and packed museums.
8. I’m sorry — Jammer (YAH-mur)
“Jammer” covers apologies of all sizes, from “I’m sorry I’m late” to “I’m sorry I don’t speak Afrikaans”. It’s a soft, humble word that defuses awkwardness. You can make it stronger with “Ek is jammer” (I am sorry).
9. Do you speak English? — Praat jy Engels? (PRAAT yay ENG-els)
Even though English is widely spoken, asking this question in Afrikaans first shows respect and awareness. Most people will answer “Ja, ek praat Engels” (yes, I speak English) with a wide grin, and then the conversation flows easily.
Getting Around
10. Where is…? — Waar is…? (VAHR is)
This phrase is a lifesaver for navigation. Simply attach a location: “Waar is die toilet?” (where is the toilet?), “Waar is die strand?” (where is the beach?), or “Waar is die restaurant?” (where is the restaurant?). You’ll often hear the reply with a point in a direction, which is universal.
11. How much is it? — Hoeveel kos dit? (HOO-feel KOS dit)
Essential for markets, craft stalls, and anywhere you need to check a price. Vendors appreciate the directness, and it often sparks a friendly conversation. If you’re bargaining — common at some street markets — this phrase is your starting point.
12. Left / Right — Links (links) / Regs (rekhs)
These two small words make a huge difference when someone is giving you directions. “Links” is left, “regs” is right. You’ll also hear “reguit” (REKH-ayt) for straight ahead. Combine them with “Waar is” to navigate confidently.
Food and Shopping
13. It’s delicious — Dit is lekker (dit is LEK-kur)
“Lekker” is arguably the most beloved word in South African English, borrowed directly from Afrikaans. It means nice, good, tasty, or great — depending on context. Saying “Dit is lekker” after a meal is the highest compliment you can give. You’ll also hear locals use “lekker” constantly in English conversation: “Have a lekker day!”
14. Please bring the bill — Bring asseblief die rekening (bring AH-suh-bleef dee ree-KEH-ning)
Knowing how to ask for the bill in Afrikaans is a classy move in restaurants. It signals that you’re comfortable and engaged. Alternatively, you can simply catch the waiter’s eye and say “Rekening, asseblief” (bill, please) — short, polite, and effective.
Emergencies and Safety
15. Help! — Help! (HELP)
Thankfully, you’ll probably never need this one, but it’s critical to know. “Help” is the same in English and Afrikaans, so you won’t need to think in a crisis. You might also want to learn “Roep ‘n dokter!” (roop a DOK-tur), meaning “call a doctor”, and “Waar is die polisie?” (where is the police?).
Quick-Reference Table: All 15 English to Afrikaans Phrases
Here’s your cheat sheet to screenshot before you travel. Save it on your phone, and you’ll have all 15 phrases at your fingertips.
| English | Afrikaans | Pronunciation | When to Use It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hello | Hallo | HAH-loh | Greeting anyone, anywhere |
| Goodbye | Totsiens | TOT-seens | Leaving a place or person |
| How are you? | Hoe gaan dit? | HOO khawn dit | Starting a conversation |
| Thank you | Dankie | DAHN-kee | Showing gratitude |
| Cheers! | Gesondheid | khe-SONT-hayt | Toasting with drinks |
| Please | Asseblief | AH-suh-bleef | Making polite requests |
| Excuse me | Verskoon my | fer-SKWAHN may | Getting attention or apologising |
| I’m sorry | Jammer | YAH-mur | Apologising |
| Do you speak English? | Praat jy Engels? | PRAAT yay ENG-els | Checking language comfort |
| Where is…? | Waar is…? | VAHR is | Asking for directions |
| How much is it? | Hoeveel kos dit? | HOO-feel KOS dit | Asking a price |
| Left / Right | Links / Regs | links / rekhs | Following directions |
| It’s delicious | Dit is lekker | dit is LEK-kur | Complimenting food |
| The bill, please | Rekening, asseblief | REE-keh-ning, AH-suh-bleef | Asking to pay |
| Help! | Help! | HELP | Emergencies |
Bonus Words to Boost Your Confidence
Once you’ve mastered the 15 essential phrases, these extra words will make you feel even more at home. They’re common, easy to remember, and excellent conversation starters.
- Ja / Nee (YAH / NAY) — Yes / No. You’ll hear “ja” constantly, often mixed into English sentences.
- Baie (BY-uh) — Very or many. Use it to intensify phrases: “Baie dankie” (many thanks) or “Dit is baie lekker” (it is very nice).
- Mooi (MOY) — Pretty or beautiful. Compliment a garden, a sunset, or a piece of art.
- Koffie (KOF-ee) — Coffee. Because you’ll need caffeine to fuel your adventures.
- Water (VAH-tur) — Water. Critical in the African heat and useful at restaurants.
- Braai (BRY) — Barbecue. This is a cultural institution in South Africa. If someone invites you to a braai, say yes.
- Totsiens (TOT-seens) — Goodbye. We’ve covered this, but it’s worth repeating — it’s a warm, distinctive send-off.
- Môre (MOR-uh) — Morning. Short for “goeie môre” (good morning). It’s a wonderful way to greet a new day and new people.
Common Mistakes to Avoid (and What to Say Instead)
Learning any new language comes with speed bumps. Here are a few common traps English speakers fall into when speaking Afrikaans — and how to effortlessly sidestep them.
Mistake 1: Using “Dankie” as a standalone response to “How are you?”
If someone asks “Hoe gaan dit?”, replying “Dankie” (thank you) is a grammatical slip. They asked how you are, but you thanked them. The correct quick response is “Goed, dankie” (good, thank you). Adding “en jy?” (and you?) shows genuine interest.
Mistake 2: Over-pronouncing the “g”
English speakers often soften the Afrikaans g into an English “g” sound, making “Goed” sound like “good”. The trick is to relax your throat and let the sound come from the back of the mouth. It’s fine if it’s subtle — think “khawn” instead of “goon” — the effort is what counts.
Mistake 3: Confusing “Asseblief” with German “Bitte”
It’s easy to mix up languages when you’re in learning mode. “Asseblief” is distinctly Afrikaans. If you accidentally say “bitte”, locals will understand — but you’ll earn extra credit for getting it right.
Mistake 4: Saying “Totsiens” too casually
“Totsiens” is warm but slightly formal. Among friends and casual situations, “baai” (bye) is more natural. Use “totsiens” with shopkeepers, hosts, and people you’ve just met. Save “baai” for new friends and relaxed settings.
Mistake 5: Expecting Afrikaans to sound like English
Afrikaans is a treasure trove of familiar-looking words that sound surprisingly different. “Selfoon” means cellphone, “rekenaar” means computer, and “vliegtuig” means aeroplane. Don’t assume you know a word just because it looks familiar — ask if you’re unsure.
Key takeaway: Mistakes are part of the journey. South Africans are famously patient and encouraging with language learners. Smile, embrace the wobbles, and keep chatting.
Cultural Tips: When and How to Use Afrikaans
Knowing the phrases is one thing; knowing when to use them is another. This cultural context will help you deploy your Afrikaans with confidence and charm.
In the Western Cape — especially in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek — Afrikaans is deeply woven into daily life. Use your phrases freely with waitstaff, farmers, and local guides. You’ll be rewarded with smiles and often a friendly follow-up conversation.
In Gauteng (Johannesburg and Pretoria), English dominates, but Afrikaans is still widely heard. Your “Dankie” and “Hallo” will be appreciated as polite nods to the local mix.
In KwaZulu-Natal, isiZulu is the dominant local language alongside English, so Afrikaans is less common. That said, saying “Dankie” is still a friendly gesture that most will understand.
A few etiquette notes to keep in mind:
- Always greet before asking for something. South Africans value a warm “Hallo” or “Goeie môre” before jumping into a request. It’s a small cultural ritual that opens doors.
- Smiling goes a long way. South Africa is a warm, expressive culture. Match your Afrikaans phrases with genuine friendliness.
- Don’t worry about perfection. Locals would rather hear you try with good humour than hear silence. Every attempt is a compliment.
- Be ready for “Ja, nee”. You’ll hear this odd phrase in South African English conversation — it literally means “yes, no” in Afrikaans and is used as a conversational filler, like “um” or “well”. You don’t need to say it; just know it’s not confusing or contradictory.
How to Practice Before You Leave
You don’t need to become fluent to enjoy the benefits. A little focused practice goes a long way. Here’s a practical five-step plan to build your confidence before touch-down:
- Repeat the phrases aloud — Don’t just read them. Say them out loud until your mouth learns the shapes. Repetition builds muscle memory.
- Use a language app — Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Ling offer Afrikaans courses that make learning feel like a game. Even 10 minutes a day makes a difference.
- Watch Afrikaans media — Search for Afrikaans music, podcasts, or YouTube videos. You’ll absorb the rhythm and tone even if you don’t understand every word.
- Write phrases on sticky notes — Post them around your home: “Waar is die toilet?” on the bathroom door, “Dankie” on your coffee maker. Surrounding yourself with the words reinforces learning.
- Practice with a travel buddy — If you’re travelling with friends or family, practise together. It’s more fun, and you’ll hold each other accountable.
Key takeaway: Fifteen phrases won’t make you bilingual, but they’ll make you memorable. And in travel, being memorable is a gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Afrikaans to visit South Africa?
No, you absolutely do not. English is one of South Africa’s 11 official languages and is widely spoken across the country. Public signs, menus, and transport information are almost always available in English. However, learning a few Afrikaans phrases enriches your experience, shows respect for local culture, and often leads to warmer interactions.
Is Afrikaans the same as Dutch?
Afrikaans evolved from 17th-century Dutch, so the two languages share a significant amount of vocabulary and grammar roots. However, they are distinct languages today, with simplified grammar, unique pronunciation, and borrowings from Malay, Portuguese, and various African languages. A Dutch speaker can often understand a lot of written Afrikaans, but spoken conversations can be trickier due to pronunciation differences.
How do I pronounce the Afrikaans “g” sound?
The Afrikaans “g” is a guttural sound produced at the back of the throat, similar to the “ch” in “Bach” or the Scottish “loch”. It takes practice, but you can start by saying “kha” with a breathy, soft friction at the back of your mouth. Don’t let this sound intimidate you — even an approximation is warmly received.
What is the best way to learn Afrikaans before a trip?
The most practical approach is to focus on high-frequency phrases like greetings, politeness words, and travel essentials. Use a language app for structured learning, listen to Afrikaans music or podcasts for listening practice, and repeat phrases aloud until they feel comfortable. Aim for 15 minutes of daily practice in the weeks before your trip.
Is Afrikaans spoken everywhere in South Africa?
Afrikaans is widely spoken but not uniformly across the country. It is the most common language in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and parts of Gauteng. In areas like KwaZulu-Natal, isiZulu is more dominant, and in the Eastern Cape, isiXhosa takes precedence. Everywhere you go, however, English will be an effective fallback.
Your South African Adventure Starts With a Single Word
Learning 15 essential English to Afrikaans phrases is a small investment with outsized returns. Each word you speak in Afrikaans is a gesture of friendship, a nod to a culture that values connection, hospitality, and warmth. It signals that you’re not just passing through — you’re engaging, learning, and appreciating.
Start with “Hallo” and “Dankie”. Add “Waar is die toilet?” for practical peace of mind and “Dit is lekker” for every meal you’ll love. String them together, mix in a smile, and you’ll discover that language is the real gateway to memorable travel.
So go on — practise your pronunciation, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to say “totsiens” to your doubts. South Africa is waiting, and now you have the words to greet it properly.