Namibia’s tourism accommodation occupancy reached 66.5% in the third quarter of 2026, exceeding levels recorded last year and in 2019, according to the Hospitality Association of Namibia (HAN).
HAN says occupancy was more than one percentage point higher than in 2025 and two percentage points above the same period in 2019.
The association says luxury establishments supporting wildlife conservation and community initiatives continued to perform well, highlighting the link between tourism and conservation.
“Namibia’s conservation story is carried by the whole industry, from campsites to lodges. When travellers choose to experience wildlife here, they keep rhinos on the land and people in work,” says Rob Moffett, Ongava Game Reserve’s general manager for sales and marketing.
Namibia recorded 43 rhino poaching incidents in 2025, down from 91 in 2024.
HAN says 24 incidents had been recorded so far in 2026.
The association says partnerships between communities, the government, tourism businesses and conservation organisations remain essential to protecting wildlife and supporting livelihoods.
