Things to Do in Kotu Beach

Banjul International Airport sits 30 minutes away by taxi or hotel transfer. Most flights connect through European cities, with some routing through Casablanca or Dakar—expect longer travel times from North America. Taxis cost 800-1,000 dalasi from the airport, though you can negotiate lower. Hotel transfers cost slightly more but they're reliable. Once you're in Gambia, shared taxis and local buses run regularly between Kotu and other coastal areas, though they get crowded during rush hours.

Everything is walkable in Kotu. Hotels, restaurants, and the beach cluster within a few blocks of each other, making rental cars unnecessary for most visitors. Green tourist taxis work best for longer trips—drivers speak English and know tourist destinations, though you'll pay more than local transport. Shared taxis called 'gele-geles' cost less. They can confuse first-time visitors who don't know the route system. Some hotels rent bicycles, which work well for short distances on main roads—avoid side streets where sand makes cycling difficult. Day trips require hiring a private driver. Expect to pay 2,000-3,000 dalasi for full-day excursions, which gives you more flexibility than organized tours.