Tanzania’s new private island gem wins global acclaim and sets eco-tourism benchmark
By Business Insider Reporter, Zanzibar
Bawe Island Resort, a newly launched eco-luxury destination in Zanzibar, is making global waves after being crowned Zanzibar’s Leading Luxury Resort 2025 at the prestigious World Travel Awards.
Barely a year since opening its doors, the private island resort has emerged as a flagship for sustainable tourism in East Africa, blending high-end hospitality with an unrelenting commitment to environmental preservation.
Owned and managed by The Cocoon Collection, Bawe Island is fast positioning itself as a high-value tourism asset in Tanzania’s growing hospitality sector – especially at a time when the global market is shifting toward eco-conscious travel experiences.
A strategic luxury investment with environmental returns
Set on a 30-hectare private island just off Stone Town, Bawe Island Resort features 70 high-end villas, each offering panoramic ocean views, private pools, and eco-sensitive architecture.
The project represents a bold investment in Zanzibar’s upmarket tourism space, aiming to attract discerning travelers who are willing to spend more for exclusivity and environmental responsibility.
The entire resort operates 100% on solar energy and utilises desalination systems to minimise reliance on local resources. More importantly, Bawe Island sits within the Changuu-Bawe Marine Reserve, which is jointly managed with the Zanzibar government to protect marine biodiversity – including coral reefs, tropical fish species, and endangered marine flora.
“Our vision was to build a luxury destination that doesn’t compromise the environment. Winning this award confirms that sustainable development and world-class hospitality can go hand in hand,” said Attilio Azzola, Founder of The Cocoon Collection.
Boosting Zanzibar’s position in tourism
Tourism accounts for over 25% of Zanzibar’s GDP and remains one of Tanzania’s top foreign exchange earners. Projects like Bawe Island Resort are not only increasing the average revenue per visitor but are also reinforcing the country’s position as a safe and desirable destination for high-spending travelers.
By targeting the eco-luxury niche, Bawe Island is contributing to the diversification of Tanzania’s tourism portfolio – moving beyond budget safaris and beach vacations to offer bespoke, low-impact experiences.
Where sustainability meets opulence
Private Luxury: Each villa is secluded, spacious, and sustainably built, combining traditional Swahili design with modern comfort.
Culinary Excellence: Gourmet dining options highlight locally sourced ingredients, with Swahili, Italian, and Asian-inspired menus.
Wellness and Nature: A full-service spa, yoga retreats, and marine-based wellness activities offer rejuvenation in natural surroundings.
Eco-Engagement: Guests can participate in coral restoration, marine conservation tours, and Swahili culture workshops.
Local Impact: Community & Conservation Initiatives.
Bawe Island’s impact extends beyond hospitality. Through its parent company, the resort supports several local projects including aheritage photography museum on nearby Prison Island to preserve local history; tortoise conservation programs to protect endangered species native to the area and skill-building initiatives in hospitality and conservation for local communities.
These programs align with the resort’s vision to serve as both a luxury destination and a platform for inclusive, sustainable development.
Scaling sustainable luxury
Looking ahead, Bawe Island Resort plans to expand its offerings with eco-yacht experiences, green culinary events, and carbon-offset guest programs.
The company also aims to serve as a model for climate-resilient tourism development across Africa. “Sustainability isn’t just a marketing line – it’s central to how we build, operate, and interact with the community. We see Bawe Island as a living example of how the future of luxury travel can look,” said Azzola.
