Kotu Beach holidays

Kotu Beach holidays

Kotu Beach is one of the best holiday destinations in Gambia. For a wonderful African adventure that’s packed with year-round golden sunshine, a vibrant atmosphere, and a welcoming, rich and varied culture, there’s honestly few better.

Located on the Atlantic coast of Gambia, Kotu Beach is a beautiful destination with great beaches, bars, markets and some of the most modern and luxurious hotels you’ll find anywhere in the world. For a unique and memorable holiday in one of Africa’s gems, Kotu Beach is the perfect choice.

Things to do

Holidays to Kotu Beach are perfect for wandering around this charming village with its bright and lively atmosphere and welcoming culture; after all, this stretch of coastline is otherwise known as ‘The Smiling Coast’. Beyond the beautiful beaches, you can discover a choice of bustling markets, where you can pick up unique souvenirs and don’t forget to haggle.

When the sun goes down, there’s plenty of hotel-based entertainment going on in this here. If you fancy a flutter, then pop on your best evening dress or tux, and head to the glamorous casino nearby and put a few pounds on red at the Roulette wheel. 

Excellent beaches

Kotu Beach is on Gambia’s beautiful coastline and is one of the many resorts along the Atlantic coast stretching from the south of the River Gambia. Enjoy the warm, crystal waters and soft white sand that are fringed with coconut palm trees, which only adds to the tropical setting. Spend a day sipping fruity cocktails by the beach and take in the picturesque views of the lapping shore.

The interchanging weather conditions of the sea means that there are plenty of opportunities for water sports, such as wind surfing, jet skiing, diving, paragliding and body boarding. For something more remote, head inland for secluded sands with small lagoons and green foliage.

History and culture

Kotu Beach can be found along the western coast of Gambia shelving into warm Atlantic waters. The resort is becoming popular with tourists for its stunning beaches and nearby nature reserve where exotic birds populate the mangrove forest. The Kotu stream creates harbours, lagoons and nature spots where you can see birds like waders, kingfishers, whistling ducks and several species of birds of prey.

Visitors can enjoy nature trails along the coast or walks in the nearby iconic, Bijilo National Park. Kotu Beach also has a choice of bustling markets where you can purchase local produce like hand made woodcarvings, souvenirs and pottery.

Laid back nightlife

The evening entertainment in the small village of Kotu Beach is relatively quiet with only a few bars open late. The majority of the nightlife can be found in the hotels, which may include live music and traditional dance performances. Enjoy a meal along the main road made up of bars, restaurants and small shops. Dine on freshly caught fish, authentic meat stews and spicy rice dishes whilst watching the sunset in the laid back atmosphere.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Banjul Beach | Bijilo | Brufut Heights | GambiaKololi Beach

 

Map of Kotu Beach

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30℃

Get the best of the weather between winter and spring, when the temperature and humidity levels are lower.

6 hours

Banjul (or Yundum) International Airport (BJL)

Kotu Beach is best for...

Beach lovers: Kotu’s soft, sandy beach is one of Gambia’s finest. Even though it’s close to the hotels, it doesn’t tend to get too crowded. You’ll find lots of great bars and restaurants nearby, too. 

Ultimate relaxation: You can take Kotu Beach holidays as slow as you like; it’s all about hot days in the sunshine and cool evenings enjoying the rhythm of the local nightlife. 

Outdoor adventurers: Love getting out and about in nature? The nearby parks and forests are a must-visit (you can hire a bike and cycle through if you like). And a 10-minute drive will take you to Bakou's Kachikally Crocodile Pool.

Fast facts for Kotu Beach

Language: English is the most common language, although the further you move away from the tourist hot spots the more likely you are to hear both French and local dialects spoken. Pick up a phrasebook or download our handy language app to help you with the basics.

Currency: The currency used is Dalasi (D).

Local time: Kotu Beach is the same time as GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Banjul International Airport. Transfer time to Kololi Beach is about 50 minutes. 

Flight time from the UK: The flight time to Kotu Beach is 6–7 hours.

Tourist information: Find out more about Gambia before travelling on a Kotu Beach holiday over at www.visitthegambia.gm

Holiday destinations related to Kotu Beach:

 

Getting around Kotu Beach

By bus: You can hire buses for big groups or families for tours and excursions from Kotu. It’s the most convenient way to get around, and they come in all shapes and sizes.

By taxi: Look out for local green taxis, which are usually found around the entrance to hotels. And you can book them at reception, too. Make sure you agree on a price with the driver before you set off.

Events in Kotu Beach

Roots Homecoming Festival: Travel to the small town of Albreda and take part in this celebration of African culture, which is held every other year. Descendants of Gambian families travel from all over the world to learn more about their heritage.

Rave About Africa: During the spring, this season of beach festivals takes place spectacular season of beach festivals takes place, including the Masquerade Ball and Royal Banquet. There’s also Bob Marley Day, which is a national holiday in the Gambia. 

Kotu Beach weather

Temperature: In the 30s (°C) all year round.

Best time to visit: To make the most of the fantastic weather here, book between winter and spring as it’s outside of the rainy season. So that you can make the most of your holiday to Kotu Beach. 

Between July to October, it’s often hot, humid and rainy. Days are much drier from November to February, so why not book your holiday for the winter season and escape the miserable weather at home? The tropical temperatures make it an ideal winter destination.

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