In an increasingly competitive tourism environment, credibility and trust can make or break a booking decision. One of the most powerful ways establishments can stand out is by obtaining official star grading from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA).
As South African Tourism prepares to exhibit at the Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market 2026, the spotlight is once again on quality assurance, service excellence, and internationally recognised standards. For tourism businesses wanting to attract both local and global buyers, grading is no longer optional — it is strategic.
What Is Tourism Grading?
TGCSA grading is a formal, quality-assured rating system that awards establishments between 1 and 5 stars, indicating the level of comfort, facilities, and service guests can expect.
From modest, clean and comfortable at 1-star level to premium luxury at 5-star level, the system gives travellers confidence in what they are booking.
Why Grading Is Important
Being graded offers immediate and long-term advantages:
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Builds guest trust and booking confidence
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Strengthens your brand reputation
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Improves visibility in official tourism channels
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Positions your property as credible and investment ready
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Helps you compete for international markets
Graded establishments are also featured on platforms linked to South African Tourism, giving businesses extended marketing reach.
Financial Support Available
Through the Tourism Grading Support Programme (TGSP), qualifying establishments may receive up to 80% discount on grading fees, with an additional 10% discount for TOMSA members. This makes the process far more accessible, particularly for small and emerging operators.
Steps to Get Graded
The process is straightforward and designed to be user-friendly.
1. Identify your category – Determine whether your establishment is a Guest House, Hotel, B&B, Game Lodge, or another accommodation type.
2. Apply online – Submit your application via the TGCSA portal at www.tourismgrading.co.za
3. Select an assessor – Choose from approved assessors, typically based on location.
4. Pay the fees – Once payment is made, the grading process begins.
5. Site inspection – An assessor visits the property to evaluate facilities and service against national standards.
6. Approval and certification – After review, successful applicants receive an official certificate and star plaque to display.
Grading is renewed annually to ensure standards remain high and consistent.
Standards You Can Trust
The TGCSA criteria, updated to align with global expectations, provide clear benchmarks across cleanliness, maintenance, service, safety, and guest experience. These standards help properties continuously improve while giving travellers reliable expectations.
Why This Matters Now
With major continental platforms like the Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market 2026 bringing together buyers, investors, and policymakers, establishments that carry recognised grading will have a competitive edge.
Buyers prefer verified quality.
Partners prefer compliant operators.
Guests prefer certainty.
Meet South African Tourism at the Event
South African Tourism will be exhibiting at the conference, reinforcing the importance of professionalism, standards, and market readiness across the sector.
If you want your establishment taken seriously, grading is one of the clearest signals you can send.
To explore support or begin your application, visit: www.tourismgrading.co.za/apply-now
Exhibit at the Trade Market
Businesses wishing to showcase their products and services at the Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market 2026 can register to exhibit by following this link:
