Namibia’s hospitality sector recorded occupancy of 32.39% in February 2026, up slightly from 31.23% a year earlier, but demand remains subdued.
The figure reflects the typical first-quarter slowdown, with international arrivals declining after the European winter travel season.
Simonis Storm Economist Almandro Jansen said the sector continues to be driven by seasonal patterns.
Leisure travel accounted for 95.58% of arrivals, while business travel contributed 2.83% and conferences 1.59%.
The Coastal Region led performance, with occupancy rising to 42.22%, supported by European tourists and increased oil and gas-related business activity.
The Southern Region recorded 32.75%, while the Central Region posted 31.77%, down from January’s peak driven by conferences. The Northern Region recorded the lowest occupancy at 29.17%.
Jansen said forward bookings are weakening across all regions.
He warned that rising travel costs, including accommodation, fuel surcharges and other expenses, are affecting demand from key European markets.
Global economic uncertainty, limited air access and visa challenges continue to weigh on the sector’s outlook.
