Establishments in South Africa can have themselves graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa  on a 5 star basis. Many establishments make use of this service and you will see the star grading displayed on most advertising material.
1 star - Clean, comfortable and functional.
2 star - Good: Quality furnishings, service and guest care.
3 star - Very good: Better furnishings, service and guest care.
4 star - Superior: Excellent comfort and very high standard furnishings, service and guest care.
5 star - Exceptional: Top of the line quality and luxurious accommodation to match the best international standards. Flawless service and guest care.

Hotels
There are a number of Hotel chains that operate nationally
Best Western, ? +27 (0)21 461-0727
African Sun, ? +27 (0)11 442 0488
City Lodge, ? +27 (0)11 557-2600
Formula 1, ? +27 (0)11 807-0750
Protea Hotels, ? +27 (0)21 430-5000
Southern Sun, ? +27 (0)11 461-9744

Backpacker Lodges
Backpacking lodges or hostels are widespread all over the country. Most establishments offer great value tours and activities in the areas. There is a great network of transport around the country making it suitable for single and younger travelers. Some lodges provide meals especially in the more remote areas. Most have self catering facilities and shared bathrooms although en-suite bathrooms are also common. Backpacking South Africa.

B&Bs
Bed and Breakfast establishments are becoming very popular. The accommodation is usually provided in a family (private) home and the owner/manager lives in the house or on the property. Breakfast is usually served. Bathroom facilities may be en-suite. In general, the guest shares the public areas with the host family.

Self Catering
A house, cottage, chalet, bungalow, flat, studio, apartment, villa, houseboat, tents or similar accommodation where facilities and equipment are provided for guests to cater for themselves. (This can include a fridge, oven, stove, microwave etc...) The facilities should be adequate to cater for the maximum advertised number of residents the facility can accommodate.

Guest House
A guest house is either a converted house, manor, etc adapted to accommodate overnight guests or it may be a purpose built facility. A guest house is run as a commercial operation and is often owner-managed. A guest house has areas which are for the exclusive use of the guest. The owner/manager either lives off-site, or in a separate area within the property.

Camping and caravaning
Caravan parks can be found in most towns that are holiday destinations. Most caravan parks also offer camping sites where you can pitch a tent (double check because sometime tents are excluded).
The parks generally have central ablution facilities.
Also see the By motorhome and By offroad vehicle sections for additional camping options.

Timeshare
There are many timeshare resorts in South Africa, most participate in international exchange agreements. Many timeshare owners also rent their time when they can not make use of it.

Long-term
Many real estate agents in South Africa also offer rental services. The rental properties are mostly available on unfurnished long term lease, but you will also find furnished properties on offer with 1 to 12 month lease agreements
Your local branch of an international estate agent with a presence in South Africa might also be able to assist you.