Kisawa is a 300-hectare sanctuary of forest, beach and sand dunes, located on the southern tip of Benguerra Island in Mozambique. This ultra luxury property is run by a passionate team of over 200 staff, with 90% of the operational team from Africa and the remainder of the team combining different expertise from around the world.

Kisawa offers eleven residences, each with its open-air sun deck, infinity pool (55m²) and outdoor day area with outdoor shower. The interiors feature a generours living room, king bedroom, two dressing rooms and a joint bathroom. The residences to the east of the Main Terrace are called Ocean Residences (with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean), while the residences to the west of the main building are called Cove Residences (with views of the turquoise-coloured bay). We can advise on the pros and cons of the rooms from personal experience.

There is a choice of 6 x 1-bedroom residences (150m² interior + 220m² pool & day area), 3 x 2-bedroom residences (which is essentially two 1-bedroom residences connected via an open air deck to 300m² interior + 270m² pool & day area) and one 3-bedroom residence (which is essentially three 1-bedroom residences combined with 450m² interior + 390m² pool & day area). One of the 1-bedroom residences has a self-contained annex with en-suite bathroom which is suited for young children, personell or older children looking for a bit of independence. Last but not least the Kisawa Residence, which is the owner's 2-bedroom residence and features personal touches like pan-African antiques & arts.

All residences are well spaced and come with a private butler service and a dedicated mini moke (vehicle) to get around and to the main terrace, the natural wellness center, gym, lagoon pool and kiosk (gift shop). On both sides of the property there is a Mussassa, an outdoor beach cafe where fresh seafood is served. And last but not least, the Baracca welcomes guests for splendid sundowner drinks and fresh Mozambiquean dishes. The restaurants are not open every day - your butler will inform you accordingly.

The Bazaruto Archipelago is located off the east coast of Mozambique, not far from the town of Vilanculos, which is a two-hour flight from Johannesburg. Guests are expected and greeted on arrival at Vilanculos airport and accompagnied to their 7-min helicopter flight to the sanctuary.

The island is inhabited so guests can watch fishermen sailing their traditional dhows or women picking muscles in the shallow waters at low tide. Kiswawa occupies the best location on the island - secluded, quiet and the bay of Kisawa in particular is a dream.

Alternatives to Kisawa Sactuary are Azura Lodge and Benguerra Lodge.