Things to do in Kotu
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kotu has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore reminders of The Gambia’s colonial past and its storied riverine heritage around Kotu.
Kunta Kinteh Island (James Island)
UNESCO-listed site in the Gambia River connected to the transatlantic slave trade.
Arch 22 (Independence Arch)
Symbolic monument in Banjul commemorating independence.
Fort Bullen
Historic coastal fortress with colonial-era roots along the coast.
Museums
Immerse yourself in Gambian culture and history through the region’s small but enlightening museums.
National Museum, Banjul
Exhibits on Gambian history, culture, and traditional crafts.
Kachikally Crocodile Pool
Famous Bakau site with crocodiles and a local folklore exhibit.
Religious Monuments
Visit prominent places of worship reflecting The Gambia’s diverse religious landscape.
St. Mary’s Cathedral, Banjul
Historic Catholic cathedral with classic colonial architecture.
Bakau Mosque
Colorful mosque offering insight into local worship.
National & Theme Parks
Natural sanctuaries and forest parks just outside Kotu provide wildlife and hiking.
Bijilo Forest Park
Coastal forest home to monkeys and easy wildlife trails.
Abuko Nature Reserve
Mini-zoo-like reserve with diverse birds and mammals.
Makasutu Cultural Forest
Eco-park offering traditional crafts, boat trips, and forest trails.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant coastal neighborhoods around Kotu are perfect for strolls, markets, and meals.
Kololi
Bustling strip with beachfront bars, restaurants, and markets.
Bakau
Coastal town known for the Atlantic coastline and nature reserves.
Senegambia
Popular area spanning hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
Free Things to Do
There are plenty of free ways to enjoy the coast and sunsets around Kotu.
Kotu Beach
Sun, sand, and sea with long, walkable shores.
Kololi Beach sunset stroll
A relaxed sunset walk along Kololi’s sandy edge.
Kotu River waterfront walk
Peaceful riverside strolls with birdlife.
Gastronomy
Sample Gambian flavors along the coast, from seafood to traditional staples.
Kololi beachfront eateries
Casual spots serving fresh seafood and local dishes.
Kotu seafood shacks
Rustic spots offering grilled fish and Gambian sides.
Local Gambian dishes tasting
Try benachin, domoda and other staples at beachside spots.
Nightlife
Evenings in the Koloti-Senegambia area come alive with music, bars and clubs.
Senegambia Strip nightlife
A cluster of bars and clubs with live music and dancing.
Kololi beachfront bars
Casual venues for sunset drinks that continue into the night.
Entertainment
Live performances and cultural showcases add a spark to evenings near Kotu.
Live music venues (Kololi/Senegambia)
Open-air venues with local bands and DJs.
Cultural performances at Makasutu (evenings)
Traditional drumming and storytelling in the forest.
Sports
Water sports and coastal activities are popular along Kotu’s crescent.
Kotu Beach watersports
Jetskiing, pedal boats and windsailing along the shore.
River boat trips
Short boat excursions on the Gambia River.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and day trips offer a slower pace beyond the beaches.
Boat trip to Kunta Kinteh Island
Discover the island’s history on a short river voyage.
Visit a traditional Gambian fishing village
Experience local life with a coastal village visit.