摘要:The article is concerned with basic concepts related to development of an ecological-excursion cluster in the Rostov region. The socio-economic conditions of its formation are described. The research base on which the research related to the study of touristic clusters is found is reviewed. It also gives grounds for the possibility of functioning of the ecological and recreational cluster, defines its functions and importance for the development of inbound and domestic tourism, the economy and the social sphere of the region. The zoning of the territory of the Rostov region according to the prevailing types of ecological and recreational clusters is proposed and the specifics of their activities and the development of types of tourism are indicated.