Navigating public transport in a new country can be daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local language. If you’re traveling to South Africa, understanding some key Afrikaans phrases will greatly enhance your experience and confidence when using public transportation. Here are some useful Afrikaans phrases and vocabulary that will help you on your journey:
Baie dankie
Meaning “thank you very much,” it’s polite to thank the driver or conductor.
Die busrit was vinnig en gemaklik, baie dankie.
Waar is die busstasie?
Asking for “Where is the bus station?” is incredibly useful.
Verskoon my, waar is die busstasie?
Kan jy my help, asseblief?
Means “Can you help me, please?” when you need assistance.
Ek is verlore, kan jy my help, asseblief?
Hoe laat vertrek die trein?
This means “What time does the train leave?” and is useful to ensure you’re on time.
Ek wil graag weet, hoe laat vertrek die trein na Kaapstad?
Koop ‘n kaartjie
Means “Buy a ticket” – an essential part of using public transport.
Ek moet ‘n kaartjie koop vir die volgende trein, asseblief.
Wanneer kom die volgende bus?
Translates to “When does the next bus come?” so you don’t miss it.
Verskoon my, wanneer kom die volgende bus na Johannesburg?
Is hierdie sitplek beskikbaar?
“Is this seat available?” helps you find a place to sit on busy transports.
Hallo, is hierdie sitplek beskikbaar?
Hoeveel kos die kaartjie?
Means “How much is the ticket?” to ensure you have enough money for the fare.
Goeiemôre, hoeveel kos die kaartjie na Pretoria?
Ek wil graag afklim hier
“I would like to get off here” is perfect for when your stop is approaching.
Verskoon my meneer, ek wil graag afklim hier by die volgende stasie.
Ry hierdie bus na … ?
“Does this bus go to … ?” is necessary to confirm you’re on the right route.
Ry hierdie bus na die waterfront?
Gaan ons nou vertrek?
Asking “Are we leaving now?” can clarify departure times if you’re in a hurry.
Verskoon my, gaan ons nou vertrek?
My kaartjie is weg.
Saying “My ticket is lost” to inform the staff if you run into trouble.
Ek het ‘n probleem, my kaartjie is weg.
Watter bus roete gaan na … ?
Which bus route goes to … ?” helps you determine the correct bus to take.
Ek soek die bus na Stellenbosch, watter bus roete gaan daarheen?
Remember to practice these phrases before your trip or while you’re on the go. Most South Africans are friendly and will appreciate your efforts to speak their language. With these Afrikaans phrases at your disposal, navigating the public transport system should be a breeze, and you’ll be traveling like a local in no time. Goed reis! (Safe travels!)
