In the present article the author considers training of ecological tourism guides as an integral part of the training of specialists for the sphere of tourism, suggests approaches to professional education in the sphere of tourism. The analysis of trends in the development of ecological tourism, such as the promotion of ecological tourism at the regional and state levels, the increase in demand for specialized programs in the field of ecological tourism, the growth of the tripartite interest ( state-tourists-local population) in the development of environmental, educational and environmental components of ecological tourism, aimed at improving the ecological culture of tourists and maintaining the ecological balance in the region proves the topicallity of preparing eco-tourism experts in system of additional vocational training. As a result of the research, the essence and specificity of the concept of the «ecological tourism guide» were identified and the role of specialization of the «guide of ecological tourism» in the professional and qualification structure of the tourist and excursion system staff was identified, the main directions of training of ecological tourism guides in the system of additional professional education were stated such as: organization and conduct of excursions on the interpretation of the natural and cultural heritage on the ecological path; educational activities in the field of ecological tourism; hiking, environmental actions, expeditions; ecological-educational and ecological-educational measures in the conditions of the campaign; ecological camps and educational institutions.