Ecotourism as a Factor of Sustainable Rural Development

This review aims to present the results of research on ecotourism as an innovative form in the field of tourism.In addition to ecotourism, the focus is on sustainable rural development, their mutual correlation as well as the impact they have on ecotourism.The development of ecotourism in the Republic of Serbia is not at the desired level, although our country has a predisposition that is reflected in well-preserved natural landscapes.The review highlights the advantages and benefits of ecotourism that contribute to rural and sustainable development in the long term.In addition, this paper highlights the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities of ecotourism in the Republic of Serbia within the SWOT analysis.The results of the research accentuate the necessity of implementing ecotourism as a relatively new type of tourism and point to the need to appreciate and respect the environment.