Bawe Island, The Cocoon Collection hosts the first GUESS Island
Bawe Island in Zanzibar has launched a refined collaboration with GUESS, introducing subtle design touches across selected beachfront and leisure spaces
Image from travelandspa.it
Bawe Island in Zanzibar has become the setting for a new large‑scale collaboration between Bawe and GUESS, marking one of the first full‑island brand activations of its kind.
From May to August 2026, the fashion house has partnered with The Cocoon Collection to introduce “GUESS Island,” a concept designed to merge fashion, travel, and lifestyle in a measured and understated way.
Bawe Island — a 30‑hectare private island located just off Stone Town — is already recognised for its privacy, 70 villas, and strong sustainability framework.
As a proud member of The leading Hotels of the World, Bawe has positioned itself a high‑end, environmentally conscious retreat. The GUESS project builds on this foundation by introducing a design identity that is intentionally subtle. Instead of overt branding, the island features a controlled palette of colours and a custom motif created specifically for the project, with several elements incorporating local craftsmanship.
““We wanted to create more than a presence: we wanted to create a feeling.” ”
Image from travelandspa.it
The intention behind the activation is clear.
As Paul Marciano, co‑founder and Chief Creative Officer of GUESS, explains: “We wanted to create more than a presence: we wanted to create a feeling.”
This approach is reflected in the decision to allow the brand to appear gradually across the island’s social, recreational, and private spaces, rather than dominate them.
Bawe’s existing infrastructure supports this direction. The island is home to Zanzibar’s largest solar park, a protected marine reserve, and advanced water‑treatment systems — all part of The Cocoon Collection’s long‑standing commitment to sustainability.
The partnership therefore aligns naturally with the resort’s broader focus on responsible development and a strong sense of place.
We wish The Cocoon Collection and GUESS every success as they bring this thoughtful and ambitious project to life.
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.
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