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Published on January 31, 2026

Basic Wolof Phrases for Travelers in Senegal

Embarking on a journey to Senegal promises an unforgettable adventure through vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. While French is the official language, the heart of daily communication for most Senegalese lies in Wolof. Learning a few basic phrases not only shows respect for the local culture but also significantly enhances your travel experience, opening doors to more genuine interactions and deeper connections.

Why Learn Wolof for Your Trip to Senegal?

Beyond simple politeness, speaking a little Wolof can transform your journey. It bridges cultural gaps, fosters trust, and often leads to more authentic experiences, whether you're bargaining in a bustling market in Dakar or sharing a laugh with a local fisherman in Saint Louis. Senegalese people are renowned for theirteranga(hospitality), and making an effort in their language is a direct way to reciprocate that warmth.

The Power of a Simple Greeting

In Senegal, greetings are paramount. Rushing into a request without a proper salutation is considered impolite. Take your time, make eye contact, and engage in the customary back-and-forth. This ritual is a fundamental part of Senegalese social etiquette.

  • Salam alaikum(Sa-lam ah-LAY-koom): "Peace be upon you." This is the universal greeting, regardless of religion, and always a great way to start.
  • Maa ngi fi rekk(Ma-an-gee fee rehk): "I am just here" / "I am fine." A common response to "How are you?"
  • Na nga def?(Naan-gah-deff): "How are you?"
  • Jamm rekk(Jamm rehk): "Peace only." A common, positive response.
  • Naka suba si?(Na-ka soo-ba see): "How is the morning?" (Good morning)
  • Naka ngoon si?(Na-ka ngo-on see): "How is the evening?" (Good evening)
  • Fanaan ak jamm(Fah-naan ak jamm): "Sleep with peace" (Good night)
  • Ba beneen yoon(Ba beh-neen yoon): "Until next time" (See you later/Goodbye)

Always remember to smile! A genuine smile combined with a Wolof greeting is an irresistible combination.

Essential Polite Phrases

Manners go a long way in any culture. These phrases will show your respect and appreciation.

  • Jërëjëf(Jeh-reh-jef): "Thank you." This is perhaps the most important phrase to learn and use frequently.
  • Amul solo(Ah-mool soh-loh): "You're welcome." (Literally: "It's nothing important.")
  • Baal ma(Baal ma): "Excuse me" / "Sorry." Use this when you bump into someone or need to get attention.
  • Waaw(Wa-ow): "Yes"
  • Dëdëd(Deh-deh-d): "No"
  • Baxna(Bakh-na): "Okay" / "Good"
  • Maa ngi la begge(Ma-an-gee la beh-geh): "I greet you." A general friendly greeting.

Cultural Tip: The Left Hand
In Senegalese culture, as in many West African nations, the left hand is considered impure. Always use your right hand when shaking hands, giving or receiving items, or eating.

Getting Around and Asking for Help

Navigating new surroundings is easier with a few key phrases.

  • Fan la...?(Fahn lah): "Where is...?"
    • ...toilettes bi?(...twa-let bee): "...the toilet?"
    • ...marché bi?(...mar-shay bee): "...the market?"
    • ...taxi bi?(...tak-see bee): "...the taxi?"
  • Maa ngi dem...(Ma-an-gee dem): "I am going to..."
    • ...Dakar(...Dakar): "I am going to Dakar."
    • ...Gorée(...Go-ray): "I am going to Gorée Island."
  • Fi(Fee): "Here"
  • Fale(Fah-leh): "There"
  • Jappil ma!(Jap-peel ma): "Help me!"
  • Xamuma Wolof(Kha-moo-ma Wolof): "I don't understand Wolof."
  • Maa ngi wax Angale/Faransé(Ma-an-gee wakh An-gah-leh/Fa-ran-say): "I speak English/French."

Shopping and Bargaining

Bargaining is a common practice in Senegalese markets, from the vibrant stalls of Dakar to local artisan shops. It's a friendly negotiation, not an aggressive confrontation.

  • Ñata la?(Nya-ta lah): "How much is it?" (The most important phrase for shopping!)
  • Cher na!(Sher na): "It's expensive!"
  • Waññi ko!(Wa-nyee koh): "Reduce the price!" (A polite way to ask for a lower price.)
  • Dama bëgg...(Da-ma buh-guh): "I want..."
  • Am na...?(Am na): "Do you have...?"
  • Lu neex?(Loo nekh): "What's good?" (Can be used when looking at items or food.)
  • Bokk na?(Bokk na): "Is it included?" (e.g., in a price)

Be prepared for friendly persistence from vendors, especially in popular tourist areas like Gorée Island or near attractions like Retba Lake. A polite "Dëdëd, jërëjëf" (No, thank you) with a smile usually suffices.

Food and Drink

Senegalese cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Don't miss trying the national dish,Ceebu jën!

  • Ñam(Nyam): "Food"
  • Ndox(N-dokh): "Water"
  • Tëy(Tuhy): "Tea" (Mint tea is a central part of Senegalese hospitality)
  • Café(Kah-fay): "Coffee" (French word, widely understood)
  • Ceebu jën(Cheh-boo jen): "Rice and fish" (The national dish, a must-try!)
  • Yapp(Yapp): "Meat"
  • Jën(Jen): "Fish"
  • Mburu(M-boo-roo): "Bread"
  • Dund gu neex(Doon goo nekh): "Delicious food!"
  • Noo bokk?(No boh-kk): "Are we sharing?" (Often asked when eating from a communal plate)

Basic Numbers

Knowing your numbers can be useful for prices, directions, or just understanding quantities.

  1. Benn(Behn)
  2. Ñaar(Nyaar)
  3. Ñett(Nyet)
  4. Ñent(Nyent)
  5. Juróom(Joo-room)
  6. Juróom-benn(Joo-room-behn)
  7. Juróom-ñaar(Joo-room-nyaar)
  8. Juróom-ñett(Joo-room-nyet)
  9. Juróom-ñent(Joo-room-nyent)
  10. Fukk(Fook)

General Tips for Using Wolof

  • Start with Greetings:Always begin any interaction with a proper Wolof greeting. This sets a positive tone.
  • Don't Be Afraid to Try:Locals appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation isn't perfect. Laughter and patience are common responses.
  • Listen and Learn:Pay attention to how locals speak and respond. You'll pick up nuances and common phrases quickly.
  • Context is Key:While French is the official language, and English is understood in tourist hubs, Wolof is the lingua franca for the majority of the population across regions, whether you're camping in the Lompoul Desert or exploring the wildlife of Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary.
  • Hand Gestures:Combine your Wolof phrases with appropriate hand gestures and a friendly demeanor.

Learning even a handful of Wolof phrases will unlock a richer, more engaging travel experience in Senegal. It’s a powerful way to show respect, connect with the generous local people, and truly immerse yourself in the vibrant culture ofTeranga. So, practice these phrases, embrace the interactions, and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

Jërëjëf, ba beneen yoon!(Thank you, see you next time!)