LearnWolof.com

Learn Wolof from Senegal and The Gambia

Learn Wolof

Free Wolof lessons for Senegal and The Gambia

Wolof is the bridge language of Senegal, The Gambia, and much of coastal West Africa. Learn how the Dakar and Banjul dialects compare through side-by-side cards that highlight spelling, pronunciation, and usage.

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Why Learn Wolof?

Speaking Wolof opens doors across Senegal, from bustling markets in Touba to the beaches of Saint-Louis, and helps you connect with Gambian families around Banjul and Serrekunda. Whether you're traveling, working with NGOs, or reconnecting with family, Wolof is the key to authentic cultural exchange in West Africa.

Our lessons focus on the shared core of the Senegal and Gambia dialects while pointing out the subtle spelling and vocabulary differences that locals expect you to know. Every card uses English explanations, practical usage notes, and optional search to help you remember new vocabulary quickly.

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hellothank yougood morninggood eveningpleasesorryyesnohelpwaterbathroommarketmoneyfriendfoodwhere are you fromhow are youwhat is your namesee you lateri love youna nga defjerejefnanga fanaaneba beneenwaawdeedeetndoxjaaykatbakkanjotnajiggengóorxaletubaabceeb u jënjam rekkjamm rekkbaax nadafay ñorndank
Master the Alphabet
Learn the sounds of Wolof, from the gutteral "X" to the nasal "Ñ", with audio examples.
Start Alphabet
Translate Words & Phrases
Search our English-Wolof dictionary for instant translations with dialect variations and examples.
Open Translator
Explore Wolof Words
Browse numbers, family members, food, and time vocabulary with both Senegalese and Gambian spellings.
Go to Words
Practice Real Phrases
Study greetings, market talk, travel questions, and everyday expressions for real-life conversations.
Go to Phrases

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wolof hard to learn?

Wolof is considered moderately easy for English speakers. The pronunciation is phonetic, and the grammar is relatively straightforward. With consistent practice, you can start having basic conversations within a few weeks.

Where is Wolof spoken?

Wolof is primarily spoken in Senegal, where it is the lingua franca, and in The Gambia. It is also spoken by diaspora communities in Mauritania, Mali, and around the world.

What is the difference between Senegalese and Gambian Wolof?

The main differences are in spelling and some vocabulary. Senegal uses letters like C, X, Ñ, and Ŋ, while Gambia uses Ch, Kh, Ny, and Ng. The spoken language is largely mutually intelligible.

Do I need to learn both dialects?

No, you can focus on one dialect based on where you plan to travel or who you want to communicate with. Our app lets you switch between dialects so you can learn either or both.

Learn Wolof Online — Free Wolof Lessons for Beginners