LGBTQ Travel in Namibia

Unfortunately, members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Queer (LGBTQ) community aren’t always able to experience a straightforward process when travelling. LGBTQ+ people often have to be extra cautious and do a few Google searches before settling on a holiday destination. This is especially true when it comes to going on safari in Africa.

More than half of African countries have anti-LGBTQ laws, including places where it’s outright illegal to be gay. However, there are spots of light on the continent, with a range of stunning destinations that welcome LGBTQ travellers, including Namibia.

Is Namibia LGBTQ Friendly?

In June 2024, Namibia took a massive step forward in recognising the rights of the LGBTQ+ community when the Namibian High Court ruled that the colonial-era sodomy laws were unconstitutional. This ruling overturned the laws that criminalised consensual sexual acts between men.

While same-sex marriage is still outlawed in Namibia, a 2019-2021 study by the Afrobarometer network has ranked Namibia as the third most tolerant-of-homosexuality country in Africa, after Cabo Verde and South Africa.

Despite this, as well as a May 2023 Supreme Court ruling that recognised the marriages of same-sex marriages conducted abroad between Namibian citizens and foreigners, a 2024 Marriage Act defines marriage as solely between a man and a woman. Unfortunately, this act nullified the 2023 Supreme Court decision. However, Namibia does have a prominent LGBTQ+ community and advocacy groups, such as Equal Namibia, that continue to work to advance LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

Safety in Namibia for LGBTQ Travellers

Namibia’s tourism sector does welcome same-sex couples. Like in all countries, there are some locals that are prejudiced against the LGBTQ+ community. Discover Africa does advise that couples be discreet and avoid public displays of affection when around locals or outside the boundaries of the safari lodge they’re staying at.

Discover Africa is a member of IGLTA and we frequently provide travellers with LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations and services. Our safari planners are happy to recommend accommodations and experiences where LGBTQ+ travellers will feel most comfortable and supported.