This chapter will briefly trace the evolution of the ecotourism phenomenon and some of the definitional debates which have marked its evolution. Originally conceived as an alternative to the increasing threat posed to both the culture and the environment of destination areas by mass tourism, the original emphasis of ecotourism was on low key, unobtrusive tourism which has minimal impacts on natural ecosystems. However, the term “alternative tourism” is interpreted by various authors in widely differing and sometimes openly contradictory ways. For some it is up-market package tours of rich people to exotic destinations , mostly wilderness areas ,young people carrying rucksacks wandering the globe with limited financial means, or travel that gives emphasis to contact and understanding between locals and tourists, as well as the environment