The island of Benguerra is an unspoiled paradise off the coast of Mozambique, surrounded by white sandy beaches, is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. It is a famous destination for diving and snorkeling on some of the best coral reefs in the world, horseback riding through the dunes and traditional cruises. It is in this natural paradise that a luxury ecological resort Kisawa Sanctuary emerged at the end of 2021, framed in a dream landscape.
The Kisawa Sanctuary, in which Kisawa means “unbreakable”, which as defined by the resort is “our mission is to unite nature and well-being, with care and comfort”. And “Sanctuary”, refers to the place that in itself is a sanctuary, and although it is a luxury resort, its entire existence is based on balance, sustainability, and even research, in a quest to give back to the island everything that it can eventually take away from it. . “Kisawa is a happy combination of innovation and tradition.”
The hotel is made up of 22 bungalows and 12 thatched-roof residences set within the dunes, spread across 300 hectares of coastal forest by the sea. Some are positioned on the calmer side of the cove and others are nestled in the dunes on the ocean side, but all are carefully positioned within their own secluded terrain, providing maximum privacy and excellent appreciation of the natural surroundings.
Built in the most artisanal way possible, it has wooden and straw structures covered in a variety of styles based on the traditional of the region. Inside, the walls are plastered and the wooden floors covered with large colorful rugs. We also found wood on the paths that lead to the bungalows, on the terraces that support the cabins and that surround the pools. The decor and furnishings are contemporary and locally made, combined with crafts and objects from across Africa to give the interiors an authentic feel.
Guests can enjoy common dining spaces throughout the resort, the cuisine is traditional made with seafood and fresh items, with a zero waste policy and no processed ingredients. As well as a wellness center sheltered in the dunes formed by clusters of round straw volumes with conical ridges.
Next to the resort is the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies, a research center for ocean conservation. As described by Nina Flohr responsible for the project, “Their parallel operations create a new symbiotic business model whereby for-profit hospitality directly contributes to non-profit marine science and research”. Surveys that resort guests can participate in through activities such as excursions on the survey vessel, which is used to tag and monitor local shark populations. The resort is “the first property worldwide to open in conjunction with its own marine research centre”.
To enjoy this unforgettable experience, the minimum you have to spend is five thousand euros per night per bungalow, for two adults. This value includes a personalized service team 24 hours a day, sustainable ways to explore the island among other comforts of attention of the highest luxury.
