Kotu Holidays

As far as Gambian beach resorts go, Kotu is one of the biggies. It’s probably down to the super-long beach on its doorstep. That said, it’s nowhere near as noisy as its bubbly next door neighbour, Kololi. The pair make the perfect team, with Kotu sorting you out with snoozes on the sand, while Kololi handles nights out and shopping sprees.

Kotu’s beach is a really relaxed customer. If you’re a people-watcher, you’re in luck. Visit at sunrise and you’ll see the locals bringing their horses down to the sea for a dip. At sunset, meanwhile, fishermen yank in their nets. Plus, you can head over to the creek for some bird-watching. If you do just want to soak up the rays, the constant Atlantic breeze will keep you nice and cool.

There’s plenty to do when you’re not chilling. Kotu’s eastern edge rubs up against Fajara Club – an 18-hole golf course. Or, you can hail a taxi to neighbouring Kololi, a five-minute drive away. Tell them to drop you off at the Senegambia Strip, which is chock-a-block with bars, clubs and restaurants. The pubs pull everything from pints of Guinness to The Gambia’s local Julbrew beer. And you’re just as likely to get a top Thai curry as you are beef domada – a peanut stew and the national dish.