Charting a New Sustainability Course for Luxury Game Lodges in Africa: A Hybrid Analytical Framework for Analysing the Key Coupled Human and Natural System Components

Abstract

This paper introduces a hybrid analytical framework to comprehensively assess luxury game lodges within protected areas such as Coupled Human and Natural Systems (CHANS). The framework, developed through a synthesis of diverse Social-Ecological Systems (SES) models and tools, encompasses eight key steps, from sustainability context assessment to creating a tailored managerial-ecology model. By systematically analysing ecological, social, and economic dimensions, this framework empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions that balance biodiversity conservation, sustainability, and community engagement in luxury game lodge operations. Its practical application promises to advance the coexistence of ecotourism and environmental protection, fostering the long-term viability of these vital tourism destinations within protected areas.

Keywords

• ecotourism
• luxury game lodges
• protected areas
• analytical framework
• sustainability