Abstract
In this article, the authors consider the international experience of developing soft tourism as a sustainable model of tourist activity aimed at reducing the impact on the environment, preserving cultural heritage and involving local communities. Successful practices of Switzerland, New Zealand, Japan and other countries that actively apply the principles of soft tourism in ecological, cultural and educational projects are studied. Special attention is paid to the adaptation of this concept to the conditions of Kazakhstan, taking into account its natural and cultural diversity. In the article, on the basis of a comparative method, the prospects of introducing soft tourism in Kazakhstan through the development of ecotourism in national parks, support of ethno-cultural initiatives are analyzed. The main problems are identified, including the lack of infrastructure, low level of awareness among tourists and the need to educate local residents. On the basis of the research, the authors come to the conclusion that soft tourism, based on the principles of responsibility and friendliness to nature, will contribute to the preservation of the unique natural and cultural heritage of Kazakhstan and increase its tourist attraction.