Kisawa Sanctuary

Inhanbane Province, Mozambique

An expansive sanctuary on Benguerra Island, Mozambique, celebrating the unbreakable bond between people and the land through nature, culture, and soulful experiences.

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Property Overview

Kisawa Sanctuary is a vast retreat set along several miles of pristine coastline on Benguerra Island, Mozambique. Designed to celebrate the bond between people and place, it offers a new expression of sophistication rooted in privacy, space, and connection to nature. Each residence blends traditional Mozambican craft with contemporary design, reflecting the island’s cultural and natural heritage. Built with deep respect for its environment, Kisawa was conceived to have minimal impact while offering the highest standards of comfort and service. Together with its sister property, the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies, it forms a unique resort-to-research model, where hospitality supports marine science and conservation. More than a sanctuary, Kisawa is a celebration of authenticity, craftsmanship, and harmony between land, ocean, and community.

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SmartFlyer Exclusives

  • $100 equivalent food & beverage credit utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value)
  • Stays of seven or more nights will receive an additional $200 food and beverage credit (for a total of $300 during the stay)
  • One additional sixty-minute spa treatment for two guests during the stay (one is already included in the Kisawa guest experience)
  • Early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability

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Agent Tips

  • Spend an evening at Baracca, enjoying a sunset aperitif, savoring Mozambican flavors by the beach, and staying to admire the brilliance of the southern sky.
  • Join local fishermen to experience Kuvedja, an ancestral fishing technique passed down through generations.
  • Explore the archipelago’s waters to spot dugongs, dolphins, and — between July and October—migrating humpback whales.
Accommodations

A balance of privacy and togetherness.

Kisawa is a combination of eight one-, two-, and three-bungalow Residences, positioned within a vast stretch of forest, beach, and sand dunes. Each Residence has its own private beach, an open-air deck, an infinity pool, and an outdoor day area. Carefully spaced along the calm cove of Benguerra Island, each bungalow sleeps two guests. Some stand alone, while others are positioned in groups, so family or friends can enjoy a balance of privacy and togetherness.
Pool + Gym

Private pool pauses.

There is a lagoon pool, plus each residence has its own private pool. The intimate fitness space is small but thoughtfully equipped with the latest Technogym equipment, offering everything you need for a complete workout. You can also use the Pilates machines or enhance your wellness experience with private yoga sessions led by the resident yoga master, available on request.
Spa

Unity of mind, body, and soul.

The stand-alone Natural Wellness Center (NWC) specializes in integrative healing, offering a range of wellness modalities including Ayurveda, meditation, yoga, energy healing, sound healing, TCM, acupressure, infrared Iyashi Dome therapy, fitness, and nutrition—all designed to support well-being through unity of mind, body, and soul.
Restaurant + Bar

Celebrating local flavors.

The all-inclusive experience allows you to discover three unique restaurants on the property, each with its own atmosphere and flavors. Throughout all culinary destinations at Kisawa, the ethos remains the same: to showcase the best of Africa and Mozambique in a fresh and modern way. Kisawa has built a network of farmers and fishermen supplying natural, local produce from within the region. As much as possible is grown in-house and made within the Kisawa kitchen. From jams and pickles to charcuterie and cheese, Kisawa is proud to represent local flavors. There are two bars on property, one at the Main Terrace restaurant and another at the Baracca restaurant.
  • Vibe
    The vibe at Kisawa is one of effortless calm and barefoot sophistication. Days unfold to the rhythm of the island—unhurried, harmonious, and deeply connected to nature. Privacy is absolute, yet warmth and genuine care are ever-present. Design, craft, and culture blend seamlessly with the landscape, creating a feeling of natural elegance rather than formality. It’s a place where you can disconnect completely, or connect more deeply—to the land, the ocean, and yourself.
  • Who's it for?
    Kisawa is for travelers who value privacy, space, and authenticity over formality. It attracts those seeking meaningful connection—to nature, to culture, and to themselves—rather than to a crowd. This is not a place for guests who wish to socialize or meet others over aperitifs at the bar; even when fully booked, the sanctuary’s design and atmosphere ensure a sense of seclusion and tranquility. Whether as a post-safari retreat, a family escape, or simply a moment to recharge, Kisawa appeals to those who appreciate experiences that feel personal, grounded, and quietly exceptional.
  • Location
    Benguerra Island is situated off the coast of Mozambique. Kisawa occupies the entire southern tip of the island, spanning acres of pristine land and coastline. The closest airport is in Vilankulo, just a seven-minute helicopter transfer away. Airlink operates daily flights from Johannesburg and seasonal services from Mpumalanga (July to January), offering a seamless bush-and-beach connection between Kruger National Park and the Mozambican coast.

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