A clear guide for every establishment

Exceptional five star TGCSA grade signals outstanding quality, refined service, and meticulous attention to detail that is independently verified by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa. This guide explains what five star means, the exact areas assessors check, how to prepare, and why it matters for your occupancy and rate. Tourism Grading+1

What a five star grade means in plain language

Five star represents the highest level of facilities, finishes, and service within your category. TGCSA assesses against detailed matrices that scale from one to five stars, and includes a five star Premium accolade for properties that far exceed premium expectations. Grading is valid for one year and is renewed annually. Tourism Grading+1

Who this level suits

• Luxury hotels and boutique hotels that deliver comprehensive services and polished execution
• Country houses and guest houses with high touch hospitality and elegant, well finished spaces
• Game and nature lodges offering sophisticated accommodation, expert guiding, and seamless guest journeys
• Apartment hotels designed for extended stays without compromising luxury standards in-room and on property Tourism Grading

How to qualify, one page view of key expectations

Five star builds on all core requirements, then raises the bar on space, finishes, amenity depth, service polish, and consistency. Use the TGCSA criteria booklet for your exact category. Tourism Grading

Safety, security, and arrival

• Visible yet unobtrusive safety and security
• Clear wayfinding, tidy, well lit parking and entrances, professional welcome and efficient luggage handling where offered
• Emergency information in rooms, backup lighting, and secure access controls throughout Tourism Grading

Bedrooms and beds

• High quality bed base and premium mattress in excellent condition
• Correct bed sizes and access around the bed, with elegant headboard and quality linen with protectors
• Bedside surface and dedicated reading light per sleeping position, ample power availability at bedside and desk Tourism Grading

Bathrooms

• En suite bathrooms with superior finishes, strong hot and cold water, proper enclosure for showers, generous mirrors and task lighting
• Complete towel set per guest, premium amenities presented neatly, hygienic bins with lids, robust ventilation Tourism Grading

In-room features and technology

• Quality television with broad channel selection to match the market
• Effective climate control that keeps rooms comfortable and quiet
• Well positioned work surface, luggage rack, full length hanging space, drawers or shelving, quality hangers Tourism Grading

Housekeeping and turndown

• Daily full service of rooms and bathrooms at a very high standard, prompt maintenance of any faults
• Evening turndown or equivalent luxury service appropriate to the market and property style Tourism Grading

Public areas and lounges

• Elegant, well maintained lounges and bar areas sized for expected occupancy, comfortable seating, attractive décor, good acoustics
• Clear directional signage, spotless circulation spaces, reliable lift service where rooms are two or more floors above or below entrance level Tourism Grading

Food and beverage

• Breakfast quality that reflects five star expectations, well presented service at correct temperatures
• If lunch or dinner is offered, the menus, table appointments, and service timing reflect luxury standards
• Beverage service is attentive and aligned to stated hours and market positioning Tourism Grading

Category specifics at five star

Hotels, small hotels, apartment hotels, boutique hotels

• Reception is professionally staffed, a responsible person is contactable at all times, reservations and billing are accurate and prompt
• Porterage and luggage assistance are available during operating hours
• Apartment hotels maintain luxury standards in-room, more than sixty percent of units include a kitchenette and dining area without compromising five star quality of finish and equipment Tourism Grading

Guest accommodation, guest house and country house

• Host or representative is reachable twenty four hours, present for check in, and delivers an elegant, personalized welcome
• Dining room and lounge are for the exclusive use of guests, breakfast quality, presentation, and timing reflect five star standards
• Bathrooms are en suite or exclusive use, with premium amenities and immaculate housekeeping Tourism Grading

Game and nature lodges

• Sophisticated rooms and suites in natural settings, high quality public spaces, and a seamless flow from arrival to activities
• Meals and beverages are provided on the property, breakfast and dinner presentation meet luxury expectations
• Guided experiences are expertly delivered, with safety briefings, interpretation, and considerate guest ratios for drives and walks Tourism Grading

How to get your five star grade, step by step

1. Apply online on the TGCSA portal, complete your profile, and select an accredited assessor. Tourism Grading
2. Prepare room by room using the official criteria matrix for your category and five star level. Tourism Grading
3. Host the assessment, the assessor verifies against the checklist and submits a recommendation for award. Tourism Grading