Author(s)

T. I. Mukhambetov, G. O. Janguttina, U. S. Esaidar, G. R. Myrzakulova & B. T. Imanbekova

Abstract

This article is devoted to some theoretical, methodological and practical aspects of sustainable eco-tourism. In the theoretical part of the paper it is noted that in the CIS the term \“sustainable tourism” is rarely used and the more common term \“Ecotourism” is most familiar. This article analyses the similarities and differences between them as well as other close and related \“isms” within the meaning of the definitions: \“Moral tourism”, \“Nature tourism”, \“Green tourism”, \“Responsible Tourism”. According to the authors, \“Sustainable Tourism” is not a kind of tourism. The characteristics of the listed types of tourism all have certain indicators associated with sustainable tourism. From this perspective, we can talk about eco-tourism as a pillar of sustainable tourism. In the practical part of the paper the authors give a general characterization of tourism in Kazakhstan. It analyses the problems encountered in the formation and development of ecological tourism. Based on a comprehensive analysis it concludes that tourism in Kazakhstan is not developed nor is there the political will to adopt a common organizational approach to the development of sustainable eco-tourism. In the methodological part of the paper, the authors develop the most important aspect – the \“life cycle of the tourism product”, particularly its sustainability. The authors demonstrate its features, allocate life cycle stages and discuss the causes and factors contributing to the rate of aging of the product. One example of eco-tourism in Kazakhstan shows that some Kazakhstan ecotourism products require urgent measures to prolong their life cycle, which will be beneficial to all participants in the tourism industry.

Keywords

tourism in Kazakhstan, sustainable tourism, eco-tourism in Kazakhstan, the life cycle sustainable eco- tourism product.