Visitors to Zanzibar now meet digital systems before they land and at every attraction. Hotels and tour operators that match this experience will stand out.
The visitor journey is going digital
Since October 2024, non-resident foreign visitors to Zanzibar must have inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. It is bought through an online platform, and proof of cover is a QR code that immigration scans on arrival.
In May 2026 the government launched Za Explore, which brings Zanzibar's tourist attractions onto one digital platform so visitors can pay before they arrive at a site. The Ministry of Communications, Information Technology and Innovation has also named smart tourism as a priority area for technology investment.
The wider picture is in our article on Zanzibar's digital push under Dr Hussein Mwinyi.
What guests now expect
International guests arrive with smartphones, digital tickets and online bookings. They expect:
- Fast Wi-Fi in rooms, by the pool and in the restaurant.
- Card and mobile payments.
- Quick answers on WhatsApp and email.
- A safe, well-lit, secure property.
The connected hotel checklist
- Wi-Fi designed room by room, with a separate guest network and fair bandwidth limits. See our fibre and Wi-Fi guide.
- A backup internet link for reception, bookings and payments.
- CCTV covering entrances, parking, reception and stores, with remote viewing for management. Our CCTV design guide explains the planning.
- Access control and key cards for staff areas and stores.
- Public address and fire alarm systems suited to the building.
- A website that works well on mobile, with direct booking and clear contact options.
Sizing a CCTV recorder? Try our CCTV storage calculator.
Protect guest data
Hotels hold passport details, phone numbers and payment information. That brings duties under Tanzania's Personal Data Protection Act. Keep guest networks separate from office systems, limit who can see guest records, and choose booking and payment tools carefully.
How Extrion can help
Extrion works with hotels, lodges and tour operators across Zanzibar on Wi-Fi, networks, CCTV, PA and fire systems, websites and booking integrations. Request a site visit or see our website design work.
Frequently asked questions
Is travel insurance mandatory for Zanzibar?
Since October 2024, non-resident foreign visitors must buy inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation through its online platform. Check the current rules before travelling.
What is Za Explore?
Za Explore is a Zanzibar government platform launched in May 2026 that brings tourist attractions together so visitors can pay before arriving at a site.
What Wi-Fi does a hotel need?
Access points planned room by room, outdoor coverage, a separate guest network with bandwidth limits, and a backup internet link for reception and payments.
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