Consider, if you will, Africa's countless discreetly gorgeous lodges located within community-owned conservancies. They aren't simply plonked down in the wilderness; they're intricately woven into the fabric of local life. The revenue generated by high-paying clients directly funds anti-poaching units, protecting endangered species in the process. This means that while you're sipping your G&T, watching an obligatory magnificent sunset, you are also directly contributing to the survival of these animals. 

Then there's the human element - these lodges are often significant employers of local people, providing valuable skills and livelihoods to far flung communities, helping to stimulate and drive mico economies. The empowerment muscle of the high-end safari industry is significant and impressive and has a trickle-down effect that beats the pants of other economic sectors.

Then there's the "S" word - sustainability. These low-impact lodges are meticulously designed to minimise their environmental footprint, using solar power, water conservation, and waste management practices that would put many a city dweller to shame. They are, in essence, guardians of the very landscapes that draw us in. And their practices often spill over into far flung, remote local communities, where trusts are established to assist with reducing consumption and finding innovative ways to solve long-standing social issues.

The point is, true luxury is not about excess, it's about impact. When done correctly, high-end safaris allow for a symbiotic relationship between those who visit, the people who live there, and the wildlife that makes it all possible. And frankly, that is the most luxurious notion of all.

Of course, there is an elephant in the room – the cost. Yes, these experiences come with a hefty price tag. But that price tag isn't simply lining the pockets of some faceless corporation. It's a direct investment in the very things that make a safari worthwhile: the wildlife, the landscapes, and the people involved in it. When you pay a premium for a luxury safari, you're not just buying a plush bed and a posh meal; you're buying into an economic powerhouse that's having a significant positive impact on both people and planet.

Consider the sheer scale of the conservation efforts required to protect Africa's wildlife. Anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, community outreach programmes – these initiatives require significant funding, and luxury tourism provides a vital source of that funding. Luxury lodges are often located in remote, critically important ecosystems where traditional tourism models would be devastating. By limiting the number of guests and focusing on low-impact practices, they minimise their environmental footprint and maximise their positive impact.

And let's be honest, experiencing the African bush in comfort and style is hardly a sin. After a day exploring the wilderness, bouncing around on safari vehicles, trekking across vast savannahs and witnessing the mysteries of Mother Nature, there's nothing wrong with a hot shower, delicious meal, and comfortable bed in glorious five-star style. 

Moreover, a well-run luxury lodge providing an unparalleled level of service and expertise has created a need for sought-after hospitality skills. The guides are highly trained naturalists with a deep understanding of the local flora and fauna; the staff are attentive, professional, guest-focused and knowledgeable, ensuring that every aspect of your experience is seamless and memorable. The training required to attain these levels is often done in-house, meaning that part of your safari budget is being spent on educating and training people to give them meaningful careers in a burgeoning industry. That's empowerment in action.

Think of it this way: a luxury safari is an investment in a transformative experience. It's an opportunity to connect with nature on a profound level, to witness the raw beauty of the African wilderness, and to contribute to the preservation of these precious ecosystems. It's not about conspicuous consumption; it's about conscious consumption. It's about recognising that true luxury lies not in material possessions, but in experiences that enrich our lives and make a positive impact on the world.

So, the next time you're planning a safari, don't feel guilty about choosing a high-end lodge. Embrace the opportunity to indulge in a bit of comfort and style, knowing that your investment is making a real difference. 

Text: Sharon Gilbert-Rivett