Learning a new language can be an exciting and enriching experience, and for those interested in the outdoors, acquiring nature and wildlife vocabulary is a rewarding challenge. Afrikaans, spoken widely in South Africa and Namibia, has a rich lexicon of words pertaining to nature and wildlife, inspired by the diverse ecosystems found in these regions. Below you will find a selection of Afrikaans terms that will enhance your vocabulary and help you engage more deeply with the natural world.

Natuur
Definition: Nature
The word “natuur” is used in Afrikaans to describe nature in its broadest sense, including the physical world and all of its plants, animals, landscapes, and other features.
Ons gaan hierdie naweek die skoonheid van die natuur geniet.

Wild
Definition: Wildlife
“Wild” refers to the animals that live naturally in an area, also known as wildlife. It encompasses all undomesticated creatures from the smallest insects to the largest mammals.
Die wild in die nasionale park is baie uiteenlopend en interessant.

Berg
Definition: Mountain
The term “berg” denotes a mountain, which is a prominent part of the landscape and often a destination for hikers and climbers.
Ons gaan môre die berg uitklim vir ‘n uitstekende uitsig.

Rivier
Definition: River
A “rivier” is a large natural stream of water flowing in a channel to the sea, a lake, or another river.
Die rivier voorsien vars water vir die diere in die reservaat.

Veld
Definition: Field or Open Country
The word “veld” is often used to describe the open, uncultivated country of South Africa or the grassy plains in the countryside.
In die veld loop verskeie antelope vry rond.

Boom
Definition: Tree
“Boom” refers to a tree, a perennial plant with an elongated trunk, branches, and leaves.
Daardie ou boom verskaf skaduwee vir die piekniekgangers.

See
Definition: Sea
“See” means the sea or ocean, a large body of saltwater that is often home to diverse marine life.
Ons gaan die naweek na die see toe om walvisse te kyk.

Strand
Definition: Beach
A “strand” is the land along the edge of a sea, lake, or other large body of water, usually marked by sand or pebbles.
Die kinders bou sandkastele op die strand.

Bos
Definition: Forest
“Bos” signifies a large area covered chiefly with trees and undergrowth.
Die bos hier naby huisves verskeie spesies voëls.

Dier
Definition: Animal
“Dier” stands for any member of the kingdom Animalia, differing from plants and other entities by voluntary movement, among other characteristics.
Die dier spore lei na die watergat.

Voël
Definition: Bird
A “voël” is a warm-blooded vertebrate species distinguished by feathers, beaks, and typically the ability to fly.
Ek het vandag ‘n voël met baie kleurvolle vere gesien.

Blom
Definition: Flower
A “blom” describes the reproductive structure found in flowering plants.
Die blomme in die tuin is pragtig gedurende die lente.

Insekte
Definition: Insects
“Insekte” are small arthropod animals that have six legs and generally one or two pairs of wings.
Die insekte is volop ná die reënval.

Learning these foundational Afrikaans terms for nature and wildlife will prepare you for conversations about the great outdoors and help you appreciate the flora and fauna of the Afrikaans-speaking world. Whether you’re traveling through South Africa, exploring the wilderness, or just enjoying nature-themed Afrikaans literature, these words will enhance your lexicon and your experiences.