Bawe Island: an Exceptional Gourmet Journey begins
Bawe Island is set to become Zanzibar’s newest fine‑dining hotspot this November as it hosts the inaugural “Berton & Friends” event by The Cocoon Collection, led by Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton.
We are delighted to share that from 22 to 29 November 2026, Bawe Island, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, will host a landmark fine‑dining event set to make history: “Berton & Friends”.
Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton
This new format by The Cocoon Collection is designed to become a signature tradition across our resorts in the Maldives and Zanzibar, bringing together leading figures in Italian and international gastronomy to create unforgettable culinary experiences.
Bawe Island will welcome the very first edition of this format—an absolute debut that positions Zanzibar as a rising capital of signature fine dining. And this is only the beginning: in the months ahead, the same format will reach The Cocoon Collection resorts in the Maldives, growing edition after edition with new internationally acclaimed Chefs.
As the name suggests, the driving force behind “Berton & Friends” is Michelin‑starred Chef Andrea Berton, who will invite close friends and prominent personalities from the world of gastronomy to join him at each edition.
We are not revealing yet who the “Friends” joining Chef Berton for this first, highly anticipated edition will be. What we can share is that these are names capable of leaving their mark, spanning fine pastry and Michelin stars.
The countdown has officially begun. This November, the place to be is Bawe Island. The Chefs, the programme and all the details to take part will be revealed in the coming weeks—because truly great occasions deserve the wait.
Discover The Cocoon Collection’s enhanced SUMMER OFFER:
Booking Period:
From 28th July 2026 until 30th September 2026
Market Validity: All markets
Offer Code: ENSUM-BAWE
Travel period:
From 28th July until 23rd December 2026
30% discount on room rate
Travel period:
From 28th July 2026 until 23rd December 2027
(All Year Round – No Blackout Period)
Free meal upgrade from Half Board to All Inclusive
Terms & Conditions:
Combinable with Honeymooners Offer.
This offer substitutes the previously sent Summer Offer.
Not combinable with contracted repeater's discount.
Discount on room rate only, not combinable with Early Bird Offer.
Discount on room rate only, not applicable for extra adult and children.
Discount not applicable on meal plan supplement.
30% discount is valid only for stays from 28th July 2026 till 23rd December 2026.
Room discount is not valid for stays in Sultan Palace.
No minimum stay is required to be entitled for Enhanced Summer Offer.
All Inclusive upgrade is valid for stays in all room categories, including Sultan Palace.
All Inclusive upgrade is applicable for all room guests, even extra adult and children.
Full Board supplement price as per contract.
Cancellation of existing bookings and re-booking will not be entitled to the offer.
Send your request or enquiries to: booking@baweisland.com
Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection Joins The Leading Hotels of the World
Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection Joins The Leading Hotels of the World
Zanzibar’s exclusive private island resort becomes the latest addition to the prestigious portfolio
Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection Joins The Leading Hotels of the World
Zanzibar’s exclusive private island resort becomes the latest addition to the prestigious portfolio
Zanzibar, Tanzania (May 7th , 2026) – Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection has joined The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd., a collection of independent luxury hotels.
With a nine-decade-long commitment to providing remarkably uncommon travel experiences, Leading Hotels only selects members that meet its high standards for quality and distinctiveness.
The result is a curated portfolio of hotels united not by what makes them the same, but the details that make them different.
“We’re pleased to welcome Bawe Island to The Leading Hotels of the World. The integration of Bawe Island with the surrounding marine reserve and its sense of uninterrupted immersion makes it a promising addition to the LHW portfolio, and a rare offering for our travelers. Bawe Island’s connection to its natural surroundings reflects the thoughtful strides being taken to preserve the environment, which resonates with LHW travelers today. We look forward to having Bawe Island represent LHW on the map in Zanzibar.”
Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection offers a highly distinctive private island experience that reflects the cultural and natural richness of Zanzibar. Opened in July 2024 and located just 15 minutes by boat from Stone Town, Bawe Island is the only “one island, one resort” five-star property in the archipelago, set across more than 30 hectares of unspoiled nature.
Designed for curious travellers seeking both exclusivity and authentic connection to the destination, Bawe Island features just 70 luxury villas, each with its own pool and garden, ensuring complete privacy and a tailored stay. Accommodation ranges from overwater lagoon suites ideal for couples to expansive multi-bedroom villas and the 500 sqm Sultan Palace, catering to families, groups, and private celebrations.
The resort’s “dine around” culinary concept, with four restaurants and a main bar, invites guests to explore diverse flavors inspired by local traditions and international cuisine. Experiences extend beyond the island, with easy access to Zanzibar’s cultural landmarks, including Stone Town, Jozani Forest, and Prison Island, as well as mainland safari adventures.
Deeply rooted in its environment, Bawe Island integrates sustainability into every aspect of the guest experience. The property is powered in part by one of Zanzibar’s largest solar parks and is surrounded by a protected marine reserve developed in collaboration with local authorities, reinforcing its commitment to preserving biodiversity while offering an immersive connection to nature.
“Joining The Leading Hotels of the World represents an important milestone for Bawe Island and for The Cocoon Collection brand. This recognition confirms our vision of redefining luxury hospitality through a balance of exclusivity, sustainability, and authentic connection with the destination. We are proud to bring Zanzibar and its extraordinary natural heritage to the global stage of LHW.”
Leaders Club is The Leading Hotels of the World’s complimentary loyalty program for Bawe Island. With Leaders Club, members enjoy personalized service and exclusive travel benefits that help guests make the most of their stays at Leading Hotels’ 425+ independent luxury properties worldwide. These benefits include points towards free nights, complimentary breakfast, pre-arrival upgrade opportunities, early check-in and late check-out considerations, access to exclusive events, and members-only rates and offers. Join here to become a #LHWtraveler : https://www.lhw.com/account/membership-signup
About Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection
Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection is a private five-star island resort located off the coast of Zanzibar. Opened in 2024, it features 70 luxury villas, each with a private pool and garden, offering an exclusive and immersive experience in harmony with nature. Combining refined design, world-class dining, and a strong commitment to sustainability, Bawe Island sets a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in the Indian Ocean.
Visit the Bawe island page on LHW.com: https://www.lhw.com/hotel/Bawe-Island-Zanzibar-Tanzania?rooms=1&numadult1=2&numchild1=0
About The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. (LHW)
In 1928, 38 independent hoteliers came together to create LHW which now comprises more than 425+ hotels in over 80 countries, making it the largest collection of independent luxury hotels. Since its inception, the Company has carefully curated a selection of distinctive hotels, resorts, inns, chalets, villas, and safari camps, from the snow-capped Alps of Europe to the African veldt, to share them with adventurous souls who seek the remarkably uncommon. The LHW community is made of exceptional individuals, united by a passion for the surprising discoveries and details that come with every travel experience. LHW hoteliers are artisans of hospitality whose expertise, commitment to excellence and individual flair allows them to create story-worthy moments for their guests. It is these authentic, individualized moments, combined with the warm high-touch service these hoteliers and their team provide, that keeps discerning travellers returning again and again. LHW’s collection covers the globe and promises a broad range of destinations and unique experiences, enhanced by LHW’s tiered guest loyalty program, Leaders Club. From converted former palaces and countryside retreats run by the same families for generations, to gleaming skyscrapers in dynamic urban centers, serene private island escapes, glamorous tented camps – and beyond – travellers are invited to explore, find inspiration, and experience unforgettable travel moments.
For more information visit: www.lhw.com, Facebook at @LeadingHotels, X at @LeadingHotels and Instagram @leadinghotelsoftheworld.