Consistently rated as one of the best properties in Kotu, the 3-star Bakotu Hotel is a striking complex built in the style of an African village. The pool area resembles a jungle oasis, with turquoise free form pool, thatched parasols and bar and lush African vegetation including palms and shrubs. Rooms are simple, refreshingly cool and comfortable. Reviews frequently praise the friendly staff, stunning surroundings and excellent food. Kotu Creek, just behind the hotel, is home to a variety of wildlife including a huge array of African birds; take a bird watching tour with one of the well-informed staff who can find various species and explain about them! All in all an excellent choice for a relaxing holiday in Gambia.
Location
The hotel is located around 100m from a stunning sandy beach, and has Kotu Creek as its backdrop. Access to the beach is through a small shopping centre or via another hotel nearby. There is a huge range of watersports to try here, as well as restaurants and bars along the shore for those after some refreshment. For a taste of the real Africa, the Kachikaly pool makes for a fascinating day out; a watering hole home to a variety of wildlife, including many crocodiles (don’t get too close!) Other nearby places of interest include the Monkey Park (go in the morning for the best chance to see the monkeys) and Serrakunda market.
Accommodation
Accommodation at the Bakotu Hotel consists of 90 clean and comfortable rooms. Rooms come in different sizes to cater for different sized groups. All come with 2 or 3 beds, fan or air conditioning, a fridge, full bathroom with WC and balcony or terrace. Apartments are located in a separate annex, and come with a convenient kitchenette and separate living area. Twin rooms for sole occupancy can be booked at a supplement.
Facilities
The hotel provides a good standard of facilities for guests. The pool area is a lovely spot to spend days in the sun, with its relaxed tropical feel, large lagoon-style pool and surrounding African vegetation and trees. A thatched poolside bar, the Bardendengo Bar, serves snacks and refreshments throughout the day. The Back Terrace, surrounded by fruit trees and broad-leafed palms and teak trees, provides a serene shady spot to escape the suns rays. The hotel has 2 fantastic restaurants – The Captain’s Table, with its grass roof and partially alfresco terrace, offers a superb menu of food and wines from around the world. The Baobab Restaurant offers a range of set menus at highly affordable prices and a good children’s menu. Activities to take part in at the hotel include fishing, bird watching and nature walks, a round of golf at the nearby course (under separate management), watersports and daytrips available locally. Other useful facilities include a 24-hour reception, mini market, internet access and laundry service.
Restaurants and Bars
- The Captain’s Table restaurant
- The Baobab restaurant
- Poolside bar
Sports and Leisure
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Entertainment including live music, dancing and fire-eating
- Watersports and golf nearby
- Bird and wildlife watching
- Internet access
Board: Guests can opt for half board dining, purchase meals at the on-site restaurants or dine out at the nearby restaurants of the resort centre and seafront.
Children: Child prices are available for 2-12 year olds. There is a children’s menu at the Baobab restaurant.