Namibia back on an upward trend in visitor numbers

The Namibian travel industry is breathing a little easier. Visitor statistics for June show a slight increase compared to June 2024. In the first quarter and in April and May, the figures were slightly down in comparison. Some companies feared that the new 'Visa on Arrival' would deter holidaymakers. It has been in force since 1 April.

The Hospitality Association of Namibia (HAN) yesterday released the latest statistics on accommodation occupancy rates. According to these figures, the rate for June was just over 51 per cent nationwide.

This is a slight increase compared to June 2024, according to HAN Managing Director Gitta Paetzold, and roughly on par with June of the pre-corona year 2019.

Nevertheless, the second quarter was 1.5 percentage points below the previous year. At least this was only half of the decline of just under 3 percentage points in the first quarter of 2025.

Looking at the countries of origin of visitors, Paetzold says that growth can be seen above all in Central European countries. They are still considered the main market for Namibia as a travel destination.

This toruism year's overall result depends on the peak season, which begins in July and lasts until November. Many tour operators remain sceptical, pointing to increased prices, especially for flights, but also for car rentals and accommodation, as well as the new 'Visa on Arrival' (N$ 1,600, currently just under 78 euros; amount at the current exchange rate, 1 N$ = 1 rand).

In 2024, nationwide room occupancy in Namibia returned to pre-coronavirus crisis levels for the first time. According to HAN, it stood at 54.48 per cent – three percentage points higher than in 2023 and one percentage point higher than in 2019.

However, the HAN statistics are only indicative. They are based on figures from a small proportion of members.

Sven-Eric Stender