Understanding the star rating system.
Overview
Embracing hotel grading in South Africa is a national quality assurance system that assigns a one to five star level to accommodation after an on site assessment by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, a business unit of South African Tourism. A five star premium tier recognizes properties that far exceed premium expectations. tourismgrading.co.za
Where grading applies
Grading covers many categories, including hotels, small hotels, boutique hotels, apartment hotels, guest accommodation, self catering, backpackers and hostels, game or nature lodges, and venues. The current criteria set was refreshed and implemented on 1 April 2019. tourismgrading.co.za
Why grading matters
Grading sets clear expectations for guests and trade partners, improves visibility through SA Tourism channels, and unlocks demand. Government departments are required to procure accommodation from graded establishments, which helps with corporate and public sector bookings. South African Tourismtourismgrading.co.za
How grading works
You apply online, accept the terms, and pay the membership fee. An accredited assessor visits, checks your property against the official criteria, and issues a star level if you meet the requirements. Membership is annual, with automatic renewal subject to fee payment and reassessment. tourismgrading.co.zaTQIT South Africa
What the stars mean, in plain language
One star signals basic, clean, and functional. Five star signals top quality facilities and service. Requirements scale up across safety, bedrooms, bathrooms, public areas, food and beverage, service and housekeeping, with detailed checklists per category. A five star premium accolade is reserved for the pinnacle of luxury. tourismgrading.co.za+1South Africa
Costs, discounts, and support
Annual fees depend on your type and size. You can estimate fees with the TGCSA calculator. Eligible businesses can apply for support to reduce costs through the Tourism Grading Support Programme. tourismgrading.co.zaSouth African Tourism
How grading can influence occupancy and rate
Grading improves discoverability and trust for domestic and foreign travellers, tour operators, and the travel trade. Being graded keeps you eligible for public sector travel and many corporate RFPs, which can lift occupancy and stabilise rate. South African Tourism
Practical tips to pass first time
Work from the official criteria for your exact category, walk the property with the checklist, fix snags, and standardise housekeeping. Ensure emergency information and backup lighting are in every room, this is checked at all star levels. Make sure televisions and channel offerings match your target star level. Keep lounges and bar areas adequately furnished with comfortable seating for the expected number of guests. Train your team on the service items that appear in the criteria. tourismgrading.co.za
How to start
Apply on the TGCSA portal, gather compliance documents, and schedule your assessment. If you qualify, explore the support programme to reduce your first year cost. tourismgrading.co.zaSouth African Tourism
Official contacts
Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, Bojanala House, 90 Protea Road, Chislehurston, Sandton, 2146, Tel +27 11 895 3000, Email feedback@tourismgrading.co.za. tourismgrading.co.za
Read next, the star by star guides
• One star hotels, criteria and quick wins
• Two star hotels, criteria and quick wins
• Three star hotels, criteria and quick wins
• Four star hotels, criteria and quick wins
• Five star hotels, criteria and quick wins
• Reaching five star premium, what it really takes
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