KISAWA SANCTUARY – BENGUERRA ISLAND

Kisawa Sanctuary occupies a quiet stretch of the southern coastline of Benguerra Island within Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago. Surrounded by forest, sand dunes and the Indian Ocean, the sanctuary has been designed to sit within the landscape rather than dominate it. The emphasis is on space, privacy and a close connection with the island’s natural environment, with each residence positioned well away from its neighbours across more than 300 hectares of protected coastline.

Although Kisawa offers a very high standard of accommodation, its appeal extends well beyond the residences themselves. The sanctuary was created with a strong commitment to conservation, local craftsmanship and scientific research, giving guests the opportunity to experience one of the Indian Ocean’s most important marine ecosystems while supporting its long-term protection. This approach gives Kisawa a character that is distinct from many traditional beach resorts.

Life at Kisawa revolves around the island and the sea. One day may be spent snorkelling over coral reefs, exploring the archipelago by dhow or enjoying a wellness treatment overlooking the ocean, while the next could involve joining marine scientists, walking across the island’s dunes or simply enjoying the privacy of your own residence. The sanctuary encourages guests to discover Benguerra at their own pace, with experiences tailored to individual interests rather than a fixed daily programme.

Whilst Benguerra Island is already well established as one of Mozambique’s finest beach destinations, Kisawa has brought another dimension to the island through its combination of thoughtful design, environmental responsibility and a genuine sense of place. It is equally suited to guests seeking complete relaxation or those wishing to explore both the island and the remarkable marine environment that surrounds it.

LOCATION

Kisawa Sanctuary is located on the southern tip of Benguerra Island, approximately 14 kilometres offshore from Vilanculos within the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park. Guests normally arrive via Vilanculos International Airport before transferring by helicopter to the island. The short flight provides an excellent introduction to the archipelago, revealing the sandbanks, reefs and shallow turquoise waters that make this stretch of coastline so distinctive.

The sanctuary combines particularly well with safari itineraries in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa, offering a complete contrast to time spent in the bush. Its position within the marine park also provides easy access to coral reefs, seagrass beds and waters that support turtles, dolphins, whale sharks, manta rays and the rare dugong.

LODGE

Accommodation at Kisawa consists of just eight private residences, each occupying its own generous plot with direct beach access, a private swimming pool, outdoor living areas and a dedicated guest service team. The residences range from one to three bedrooms, allowing the sanctuary to cater for couples, families and small groups whilst maintaining a strong sense of privacy throughout the property.

The design of the sanctuary combines traditional Mozambican building techniques with contemporary engineering. Local artisans were involved throughout the construction, working alongside innovative 3D sand-printing technology that enabled many building components to be produced using materials from the island itself. The result is architecture that feels closely connected to its surroundings while minimising its environmental impact.

The main guest facilities include several dining venues, a 25-metre lagoon pool, a fully equipped Natural Wellness Centre and direct access to the beach and water sports facilities. Dining is flexible, with meals served in the restaurants, on the beach, in the privacy of each residence or at specially selected locations around the sanctuary. Throughout a stay, the emphasis is on allowing guests to enjoy the island in the way that suits them best.

One of Kisawa’s defining features is the amount of space it provides. Rather than creating a traditional resort centred around a main building, the sanctuary encourages guests to explore the island using their own electric Mini Moke, moving between the beach, dunes, wellness centre and restaurants at their own pace. It is an approach that allows the island itself to become part of the experience, rather than simply the setting.

ACTIVITIES

Snorkelling and Diving – The waters surrounding Benguerra Island are home to some of the Bazaruto Archipelago’s best-known coral reefs. Guided snorkelling and diving excursions visit a variety of sites, with opportunities to see reef fish, turtles, rays and, at certain times of year, whale sharks and manta rays. The resort’s PADI dive centre caters for both qualified divers and those wishing to learn.

Ocean Safaris – Boat excursions explore different parts of the archipelago, from remote beaches and sandbanks to neighbouring islands. Dolphins are regularly encountered, while humpback whales pass through these waters between July and September during their annual migration.

Dhow Cruises – Traditional wooden dhows continue to fish and travel between the islands, providing a reminder of the archipelago’s long maritime history. Sunset cruises offer a chance to experience this traditional form of sailing whilst enjoying the changing light across the Indian Ocean.

Fishing – The Bazaruto Archipelago is regarded as one of Africa’s leading saltwater fishing destinations. Guided excursions are available for both deep-sea and fly fishing, with experienced skippers selecting locations according to the season, tides and prevailing conditions.

Island Walks – Guided walks explore Benguerra Island beyond the beaches, taking in coastal dunes, freshwater lakes and areas of indigenous vegetation. These walks provide an opportunity to understand more about the island’s ecology and the communities that live here.

Wellness – Treatments are available at the Natural Wellness Centre, where therapies draw on both international and local influences. Yoga, fitness sessions and personalised wellness programmes can also be arranged during your stay.

Marine Research – Kisawa has a close relationship with the neighbouring Bazaruto Centre for Scientific Studies (BCSS). Depending on current research programmes, guests may have opportunities to learn more about the marine science taking place in the archipelago and the work being undertaken to better understand and protect its ecosystems.

GIVING BACK

Kisawa Sanctuary was established alongside the Bazaruto Centre for Scientific Studies (BCSS), Africa’s first permanent ocean observatory. The centre supports long-term research into coral reefs, seagrass habitats, marine mammals and the wider health of the western Indian Ocean, bringing together scientists from Mozambique and around the world.

The sanctuary also works with local communities across Benguerra Island through employment, training and the use of Mozambican craftspeople and locally sourced materials. Many of the construction techniques and furnishings found throughout the sanctuary were created by local artisans, helping to preserve traditional skills whilst creating employment on the island.

KISAWA SANCTUARY IS OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND

THE SANCTUARY OFFERS ONE, TWO AND THREE-BEDROOM RESIDENCES SUITABLE FOR COUPLES, FAMILIES AND SMALL GROUPS. PLEASE ASK US FOR THE LATEST CHILD POLICY WHEN PLANNING YOUR HOLIDAY