Three Different Ways to Experience Zanzibar with The Cocoon Collection
A short insightful look into the 3 Cocoon Collection properties in Zanzibar and what makes them so unique.
Wondering which Zanzibar stay would suit your clients?
Island Pongwe • Gold Zanzibar • Bawe Island
Choosing where to stay in Zanzibar often comes down to the kind of holiday your clients want — quiet and simple, social and activity‑driven, or exclusive with plenty of space. We put together a quick look at how Island Pongwe, Gold Zanzibar and Bawe Island each deliver a different experience.
Island Pongwe - the ideal retreat for guests looking for Eco, Slow and luxuriously simple:
Island Pongwe suits travellers who want calm, privacy and a slower pace. It’s a small, female‑led eco‑lodge with a “back‑to‑basics but still comfortable” approach - we like to describe it as a ‘luxury‑Robinson‑Crusoe experience’ — no Wi‑Fi, fresh local produce, and an emphasis on switching off. Days follow the rhythm of the tides as the Eastern side of the island sees a bigger tidal shift each day: swimming, kayaking, paddle‑boarding, spa treatments, or walking the exposed sandbanks at low tide. Guests can explore Pongwe Bay and the nearby village when they want movement and interaction with the local culture, then return to the island for quiet time. It’s ideal for guests who value simplicity, nature and a peaceful base.
Gold Zanzibar - A classic beach holiday with buzzing energy
Gold Zanzibar is the right fit if your guests want a lively atmosphere, long beach days and plenty of activity. It sits on one of the island’s best beaches, known for soft sand, great sunsets and minimal tidal impact — which means more consistent swimming and water sports. The resort is large, with varied room categories, multiple dining options and a steady holiday buzz created by both locals in and around the town and with international guests staying in the hotel. The hotel offers a generously sized private beach in front of the hotel. Guests will love Gold if they enjoy a sociable environment, easy access to facilities, and a beach that’s active from morning to evening.
Bawe Island - Space, Privacy and Marine Access
Bawe Island works well for guests who want exclusivity without feeling isolated. 15 minutes by boats from Stonetown, Bawe has 70 villas spaced across the island, it offers privacy and room to breathe while still providing full resort facilities. The surrounding waters form part of a protected marine area, and the island has a dedicated water‑sports centre for non‑motorised activities like kayaking and snorkelling. Diving can be arranged through off‑island excursions, usually a short boat trip away. Bawe is a good match for guests who want comfort, nature and a quieter atmosphere than the main island, but with more structure and amenities than a small eco‑lodge.
Bawe Island - awarded Gold Hotel Champion Serendipians
Bawe Island celebrates becoming Serendipians Gold Hotel Champion in it’s first year of opening !
Zanzibar, Nov 2025
We are proud to announce that Bawe Island has been awarded the prestigious Gold Hotel Champion classification by Serandipians.
Achieving this recognition in thier very first year as part of the Serandipians network makes the entire team at The Cocoon Collection especially proud.
As Zanzibar’s first true “one island, one resort”, Bawe Island sets a new standard in luxury, offering unmatched privacy and exclusivity while still allowing our guests to discover the charm and beauty of Stone Town and Zanzibar’s mainland.
This certification reflects our commitment to delivering the highest standards of luxury in an unforgettable setting. Bawe Island is a destination-defining property, raising the bar for luxury experiences in Zanzibar.
© Laura Dale
The Cocoon Collection, represented in the UK by Travel Promoters, look forward to continuing their valued partnership with Serandipians for many years to come.
Serandipians & Takumians by Traveller Made
Launched in July 2024, Bawe Island has quickly established itself as one of the most exclusive destinations in the Indian Ocean. This recognition comes as a crowning achievement for a first year filled with many highlights and successes.
© Laura Dale
Bawe Island is a 5-star "one island, one resort", unique to the entire archipelago, located just a few minutes by boat from Zanzibar’s ancient Stone Town. With its 70 villas, all with private pools and ocean views, it represents a new concept of luxury travel that combines privacy, refined design and commitment to sustainability. The entire island is powered by solar energy, equipped with advanced desalination systems and is surrounded by the newly proclaimed and protected Changuu-Bawe marine reserve, established in collaboration with the government of Zanzibar.
Bawe Island Celebrates it’s 1st Year with a win !
Bawe Island celebrates its first year, winning ‘Zanzibar’s Leading Luxury Resort’ Award.
Zanzibar, July 2025
Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection celebrated its first anniversary in style, winning the prestigious title of “Zanzibar’s Leading Luxury Resort 2025” at the World Travel Awards, reaffirming its role as a key player in the high-end hospitality landscape.
Zanzibar Cluster General Manager, Mr. Roberto Di Pierno (on the left) together with Mr. Taji George Liundi (on the right), Corporate Master of Ceremonies
Launched in July 2024, Bawe Island has quickly established itself as one of the most exclusive destinations in the Indian Ocean. This recognition comes as a crowning achievement for a first year filled with many highlights and successes.
"Receiving this award on our first anniversary is a great satisfaction and an important recognition of the work done. In particular, I want to give a special shout-out to our team for their efforts and for reaching an absolute level of quality for the destination in such a short time," says Attilio Azzola, Founder and Corporate Sales Manager of The Cocoon Collection. "Bawe Island has been both an ambitious and very challenging project. On one hand, we are committed to bringing international standards of luxury, whilst celebrating Zanzibar’s unique history, culture, natural wonders and authentic, human charm."
Mr. Roberto and the event hostess
Bawe Island is a 5-star "one island, one resort", unique to the entire archipelago, located just a few minutes by boat from Zanzibar’s ancient Stone Town. With its 70 villas, all with private pools and ocean views, it represents a new concept of luxury travel that combines privacy, refined design and commitment to sustainability. The entire island is powered by solar energy, equipped with advanced desalination systems and is surrounded by the newly proclaimed and protected Changuu-Bawe marine reserve, established in collaboration with the government of Zanzibar.
Thanks to the convenient daily shuttle, guests can explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its historic alleys, local markets, and terraces with sunset views. Nearby, iconic attractions such as the birthplace of Freddie Mercury, spice plantations, marine life, and pristine beaches await to be discovered. Also featuring prominently in the project is Prison Island, where The Cocoon Collection has launched a cultural and environmental initiative that includes a photography museum and a nature reserve for the historic giant tortoises.
Just one year into its story, Bawe Island is already establishing itself as an icon. A place where each day is an invitation to discover and every stay leaves an indelible memory. With an eye on the future, The Cocoon Collection celebrates this milestone with enthusiasm and gratitude, ready to write new chapters filled with timeless elegance, authenticity and genuine spice island magic.
UK Press contact: Claire Roadley at Umlingo Travel PR claire@umlingo.co.uk / +44 (0)7795108195