BENGUERRA Island, nestled off the coast of Mozambique amidst lush emerald forests and azure waters, is now home to a groundbreaking eco-resort conceived by Swiss billionaire heiress, Princess Nina of Greece and Denmark.
At 36 years old, Princess Nina stands out as more than just a businesswoman. Beyond her royal titles as a member of the Greek and Danish royal families, she previously served as the creative director of VistaJet, her father’s luxury private airline enterprise. There, she redefined the realm of luxury air travel, overseeing everything from opulent menus to Italian linens and even introducing $45 million Bombardier jets adorned with graffiti art.
However, it’s her remarkable venture in Mozambique that has garnered global attention. The Kisawa Sanctuary, founded by Princess Nina in 2017, is not just a luxury hotel but also a pioneering 3D-printed resort. Employing a unique sand-and-sea-water mortar, the sanctuary harmoniously blends innovative construction techniques with its idyllic natural surroundings.
Spanning 300 hectares, Kisawa boasts 12 tailor-made bungalows, each featuring a private beach, infinity pool, and open-air deck. The entire establishment, from the Natural Wellness Center spa to tennis courts and a yoga pavilion, seamlessly integrates opulence with environmental consciousness.
Princess Nina’s commitment to Mozambique extends beyond hospitality. Adjacent to the sanctuary, she founded the Bazaruto Centre for Scientific Studies, a hub for environmental research. Situated within the Bazaruto Archipelago, a WWF National Marine Park, the centre concentrates on safeguarding the diverse subtropical ecosystems of the Indian Ocean.
For Kisawa guests, the experience is transformative. Alongside enjoying sunset cocktails on traditional dhows or experiencing glamping on the dunes, there are opportunities to engage in coral-monitoring initiatives or aid scientists in shark tagging. A partnership with the Bazaruto Centre ensures that exploration isn’t merely a leisure activity but also contributes to a larger vision of environmentalism.
In a June 2022 interview with Vogue, Princess Nina articulated, ‘Sustainability is an approach, rather than an underscore.’ Every facet of Kisawa, from its construction to the activities it offers, embodies this philosophy. For those embarking on a journey to this remote sanctuary, the reward is an unparalleled fusion of luxury, adventure, and purpose.
Whether finding solace in a spa massage, savouring rosé by the pool, or delving deep into the world of marine conservation, every moment at Kisawa reflects Princess Nina’s visionary fusion of opulence and responsibility.