Ecotourism has become an  attractive tourism-related activity for communities and conservationists across Canada. It  provides an  alternative source of  income for  communities, thereby diversifying their economies. It appeals to conservationists because it  entails fewer cultural and environmental disruptions than other forms of  tourism (such as  adventure tourism, mass tourism, and nature tourism). Despite the increased focus on ecotourism, there is considerable debate about its definition. In this report we present and explore the competing  definitions of  this term, and introduce a  working definition of ecotourism. We then examine ecotourism as a product and market segment and review the ecotourism market and profile. Finally,  we examine applications and practices of ecotourism, with an emphasis on Canadian ecotourism studies.