When people hear the name Zanzibar they automatically think of an exotic place to visit. They are not too far off and as part of the Zanzibar archipelago, Bawe Island definitely fits the bill. Located five miles off of the coast of Stone Town on Zanzibar’s main island, Bawe Island is about the size of a soccer field filled with lush vegetation and some very human landscaping. It takes approximately a half hour to get to the island by boat and guests who stay on Bawe Island can easily find their own private stretch of beach as the resort located here can only accommodate thirty guests at one time.
Bawe Island was given to the Eastern Telegraph Company by Sultan Seyid Barghash bin Seyid in 1879 and the island was to be used as an operating station for the underwater telegraph cable between Cape Town, Zanzibar, Seychelles and Aden. The agreement was extended in 1889 by the next sultan, and bungalows and other buildings were built on Bawe to accommodate the staff that would run the station. When Zanzibar became its own nation, the island was privately purchased and the resort built up around the buildings already there which were renovated.
There are 15 cottages on Bawe Island and they are scattered along the beach line affording guests privacy and views of the Indian Ocean. Each cottage is constructed of natural and traditional materials that are found locally and have thatched roofs that allow the sea breeze to circulate in the cottage and keep it comfortable all day long. The beds are dhow type beds that have been draped with mosquito netting. All of the cottages are decorated with bright colors and comfortable furniture.
Each cottage comes equipped with the following amenities: en-suite bathroom; double basins; two al fresco showers; bathtub; and veranda.
Guests who stay on Bawe Island will enjoy the freshly prepared seafood dishes that are served at the resorts restaurant. Do not be surprised to have one of the local fishermen approach you at your cottage to show you the catch of the day. The chef will also prepare it the way you like it. International dishes are also not a problem for the staff on Bawe Island. Be forewarned, meals can be five courses long featuring traditional and local dishes. The staff offers barbeque and private dining on request and theme nights are enjoyed right on the beach under the pergola.
The island also offers guests three bars to choose from. The Robinson Crusoe Bar on the beach is very popular and serves a variety of different drinks and cocktails. The Sunset Deck and Baobab Deck also serve drinks and cocktails.
Bawe Island is just big enough to offer guests plenty of nature activities to enjoy. It is the perfect place to enjoy a day laying on the private beach and taking in the sun as well as enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. There is a fresh water swimming pool at the resort as well as sun beds and massage services. Guests can also enjoy yoga lessons.
Guests can also enjoy day trips to the main Zanzibar island and enjoy Stone Town. This is the most ancient working village left in the area and it has been deemed a World Cultural Heritage site. There are many historical buildings here to see as well as shops, cafes, and other activities to enjoy, such as diving and snorkeling trips. Changuu Island – also known as Prison Island – is open to the public and guests can visit the giant tortoise sanctuary located there.
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