This manuscript presents community perceptions of wildlife conservation and associated benefits within Namibia’s conservancy model. Based on research conducted in six conservancies across different regions and stages of establishment, the study compares historical and contemporary attitudes toward wildlife management. Findings show strong positive perceptions in registered conservancies, largely driven by increased community control, awareness, and tangible benefits such as income, employment, training, and meat distribution. In emerging conservancies, perceptions remain less differentiated due to limited understanding of the conservancy concept. The study highlights the importance of inclusive benefit distribution, clear governance roles, and sustained community awareness to maintain positive conservation attitudes.