How it all started..
I am thrilled to have you here!
My name is Charlie Kooiman, owner and host of Charlie's Guesthouse in Swakopmund, Namibia.
Next to me is my four-legged family; Boet, Coal & Biggie.
My journey to Namibia began with a life-changing holiday in 2016. I fell in love with this country—its landscapes, wildlife, and people—and I knew I had to return “home.” Not long after, I was fortunate enough to obtain a job in wildlife and nature conservation. Something I have been passionate about since childhood and would like to continue in a later stage of my life.
In 2021 I left the bush and I moved to Swakopmund to become a student pilot. I started flying with the Swakopmund Flying School and fulfilled another childhood dream. Namibia is a different kind of beauty from above. My flying career is on hold for now as my adventures led to a new dream: opening Charlie’s Guesthouse. Since late 2023, I’ve been thrilled to share my love for this incredible place with visitors from all over the world.
Charlie's Guesthouse is located in the beautiful, friendly and adventurous coastal town, Swakopmund.
I made it my mission to work with local people and companies only and hopefully you will feel the love and dedication everyone has put into this unique guesthouse and hope that you will feel at home the moment you arrive. All rooms come with a private en-suite bathroom and patio and have a cozy and natural décor. While there is no TV in your room, as I rather want you to experience Swakopmund, we will of course offer free Wi-Fi so you can stay connected.
At Charlie's Guesthouse, we've chosen to offer breakfast experiences in town rather than on-site and instead give you a chance to enjoy the best of what Swakopmund has to offer. By teaming up with three amazing local cafes, you’ll get to experience incredible breakfasts while exploring the town— it's a win-win! Not only do we help reduce food waste this way, but we also get to support some of our favourite local spots. It’s all about making your stay a little more special.
An early departure? Let us know! We can have the lovely Sabine make the most wholesome homemade breakfast packs for you.
Whether you are here for business or pleasure, Charlie's Guesthouse will be the perfect place to stay. We are just minutes away from the Namib desert, beach, industrial, museums, local shops, restaurants, coffee shops and bars; You will find it difficult to get bored during your stay. My aim is to show you everything Swakopmund has to offer! Whether it is an adventurous activity, a culinary night out, or an excursion to learn about local conservation and wildlife, then I am here to arrange it for you with local specialists all of whom I know personally.
I am so excited to share my love and passion for Namibia and create an unforgettable stay and experiences for all of my guests.
Please follow us on social media and email us for any questions or bookings.
- Be where the good life is -
Charlie
Meet the team
Shallome - our nurse in the making! She is very busy following her dreams but makes time to come and shine at the guesthouse to pay for her studies to become a nurse. She is kind, calm, very driven and therefore we are so lucky to have her in the team of angels!
Sarah - was one of the first people I met when I moved to Namibia. We became colleagues, housemates, friends and family! She’s my super hero with bookings and anything else on computers (I don’t do well with computers). With her huge passion for Namibia, her great sense of English humor, positive outlook on life and years of experience she will make your day go smooth as butter!
Rodrecia - often called Ro Ro by us. She was the guesthouse’s first fan!!!… Who wasn’t already my friend or family, hihi! She’s a great actress, model and extremely motivated lady, that is determined to go for what she wants and believes in. She was part of the family the moment she walked through the door! With her beautiful and kind smile she manages to make a gray Swakop morning a sunny start of your day!
Charlie - a bit crazy, a heart that beats for Namibia and its nature, wildlife and people. You can expect a hug on arrival and lots of stories about adventures, life and wildlife. My mission is to share everything I know about Namibia with my guests and make their stay… let’s say, different.
We are all super excited to host you at Charlie’s Guesthouse and hope you’ll feel at home!
Be where the good life is 🌴