Wanderlust Tours
The charming city of Bend is situated in the center of Central Oregon, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and outdoor leisure possibilities. Bend provides something for any outdoor lover, whether they are ardent hikers, cyclists, or skiers. But if you’re seeking for a truly unique experience, Wanderlust Tours is not to be missed.
A local business specializing in guided tours of Bend and the surrounding area. There are tours for everyone, including moonlight snowshoe excursions and cave exploring. But what distinguishes Wanderlust Tours is their commitment to sustainability and their extensive local expertise.
Dave Nissen, a former park ranger and naturalist, founded Wanderlust Tours in 1993 with a commitment to preserving and educating visitors about Central Oregon’s natural beauty. They have a “leave no trace” philosophy, which means they seek to minimize their environmental impact and preserve these beautiful environments for future generations.
The “Lava Tube Exploration” is one of their most popular trips, since it takes guests into the center of a volcanic cave system. The tour begins with a walk through the verdant forest, where guests may learn about the geology and ecology of the region. Once inside the cave, guests are taken to another dimension, where they are surrounded by creepy rock formations and there is no natural light. The tour guides supply helmets and headlamps to make navigating the cave’s twists and turns easier.
The “Sunset Canoe Tour” is a popular excursion that takes people on a leisurely paddle down the Deschutes River. As the sun sets over the Cascade Mountains, visitors may unwind while learning about the region’s history and animals.
In the winter, Wanderlust Tours also provides snowshoe tours for those searching for something a little more daring. The “Midnight Snowshoe Tour,” which takes tourists into the snowy wilderness under the light of the full moon, is one of their most popular winter trips. When they trek through the forest, guests can listen to the noises of nocturnal wildlife and appreciate the winter night’s calm serenity.
Yet, Wanderlust Tours is not limited to visitors. In addition, they provide educational opportunities for area schools and groups. The objective of these programs is environmental education, outdoor skills, and team building. There is also a program established exclusively for Girl Scouts that teaches girls wilderness survival skills and environmental care.
By their connection with the Deschutes National Forest, Wanderlust Tours gives back to the community in another way. They are permitted to operate on public grounds and contribute a portion of their profits to the forest’s conservation efforts. In addition, they invite visitors to participate in conservation efforts through their “voluntourism” program, which mixes guided tours with volunteer opportunities.
Overall, Wanderlust Tours is a unique and essential resource for all Bend, Oregon residents, and visitors. Their dedication to sustainability and extensive understanding of the region have earned them the community’s confidence and respect. Whether you’re searching for a relaxing float along the river or an exhilarating cave excursion, Wanderlust Tours has something for everyone. Why not take a Wanderlust Tour to discover the natural beauty of Central Oregon? You will not be dissatisfied.