Abstract
The article reveals the content of the concept of ecological tourism, as well as considerable attention is paid to its influence on the formation of a culture of views on the environment, as well as the growth of this direction in the modern tourism industry. The outstanding characteristics of Kazakhstan’s specially protected natural areas (SPNAs) are highlighted, as well as a comparative analysis of the data, according to the statistics of ecotourism in Kazakhstan with foreign countries. According to this, the article defines the main problems hindering the development of ecotourism in the country. The authors proposed a number of recommendations for the further growth of the industry in the republic, based on an analysis of existing state programs for the development of ecological tourism. In conclusion, the active work of the state in support of the formation of this sector of tourism activity is noted.