The main aspects of alternative employment based on the organization of rural tourism and the role of this type of tourism in the development of rural areas are considered. The basic concepts, recommendations for the organization of rural tourism facilities are presented, including the landscape and design organization of recreation areas in rural areas, the tourist economy in K (F) X and the guest house in private household plots. An approximate business plan for rural tourism activities has been proposed. General rules for the formation of a tourist product and the functioning of a tourist economy, positive examples of the organization of rural tourism in Russia and abroad are presented.