We meet Oliver Peters, founder of Salty Jackal, and his partner Iris Hysko at the reception. Iris, who is from Italy, originally came to Namibia to do volunteer work at schools in Swakopmund’s informal settlements. She joined Oliver in 2019. Sitting down for a chat in the garden, surrounded by veggies and herbs, the couple tells us more about the country’s only surf backpackers.

It all started when the surf bug bit Oliver while studying engineering at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa. During surf trips with friends along the South African coast he got introduced to the thriving backpacking scene. At the time a career in engineering didn’t sound too appealing and he started looking at other options. But one thing he was adamant about: “I made a deal with myself that I would work and live close to the ocean so that I can surf without having to spend hours getting there or travel long distances for it.”

While spending holidays in Swakopmund Oliver saw an opportunity. “We have some amazing waves in Namibia but there was no real surf infrastructure for visiting surfers, hardly a surf shop around, no surf schools and no cool backpackers.” Developing his idea around the three things he is passionate about – surfing, sustainable living and extraordinary food – he transformed his grandparents’ former holiday home into a cosy accommodation establishment that can sleep 14 guests. Namibia’s first surf backpackers officially opened its doors in mid-2017.

Salty Jackal consists of four double rooms and a dorm with six beds. “What people like about it is that it’s small and feels like a home. They get to meet and spend time with other guests, staff and our international volunteers in an intimate, homely setting,” Oliver says. Centrally located, Salty Jackal is just a short walk from the centre of town. Bicycles can be rented from the backpacker to get around quicker. A neatly painted map of the town on a wall at the reception shows the surf spots as well as other points of interest such as restaurants and shops.

Tapping into other passions, the couple regularly hosts braais and dinners for guests. Oliver and Iris are also passionate about the environment and sustainability. They produce bio-gas and Salty Jackal is set up to be as energy-efficient and water- wise as possible.