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Town in Erongo, Namibia

Is Swakopmund LGBTQ+ friendly?

Updated October 2026Sources
3/5Tolerant, but be discreet

Is Swakopmund LGBTQ+ friendly?

Homosexuality is legal after a 2024 High Court ruling (under appeal); the town is small and conservative, so discretion is wise.

LGBTQ+ laws in Namibia

A 2024 High Court ruling struck down the colonial-era sodomy law (the state appealed). Society is conservative; Windhoek has a small, discreet scene.

Status
Same-sex relationships legalYes
Same-sex marriageNo
Civil unions or partnershipsNo
Legal gender changeNo
Anti-discrimination lawNo

LGBTQ+ friendliness across Namibia

PlaceRating
Windhoek3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet
Swakopmund3/5 · Tolerant, but be discreet

Quick answers

Is Swakopmund safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

Homosexuality is legal after a 2024 High Court ruling (under appeal); the town is small and conservative, so discretion is wise.

Is same-sex marriage legal in Namibia?

No.

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Sources

Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.