Small Business Success: Wanderlust Tours

A passion for nature and a desire to share this with others led Dave Nissen to create Wanderlust Tours in Central Oregon over 18 years ago. Wanderlust Tours offers half-day guided tours and trips in Bend, Sunriver and Sisters Oregon for families, individuals and corporate groups and have now expanded to include the Bend Brew Bus, which provides guests the opportunity to get a taste of Northwest brewing culture.

Dave and his team provide an elevated experience for their guests- the excursions are far more than a traditional tour, they are transformative. They take guests off the beaten path, away from crowds, to seek out the quiet of the Central Oregon Cascade lakes, rivers, forests and caves.  They share their love of exploration and knowledge of the area with groups of all ages and abilities so everyone can have a chance to experience the beauty, wonder and adventure of Central Oregon.

 

 

Q. Dave, what inspired you to begin this business?

A. Wanderlust Tours was borne out of my experience as a guide for a large tour company.  While travelers had the opportunity to see beautiful parts of the world on tour they were not engaged in the process.  I wanted Wanderlust Tours guests to feel the chilly water of high mountain lakes while paddling their canoe. I felt vacationers deserved the sensation of splashing snow all over themselves while running down snow-covered lava flows on snowshoes- I wanted visitors to the Bend area to know how spectacular the natural world is in this area.

Q. What is the most challenging element of your business?

A. A dynamic society.

Q. The most rewarding?

A. The overly enthusiastic guest responses regarding how meaningful their tour was and hearing how engaging our guides were when sharing the nuances of the forest and desert.

Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Treat your customers with respect and blow their expectations away by delivering more.

    

Q. What has helped you to stay strong during the economic ebbs and flows?

A. A strong commitment to mission and being innovative.

Q. Is there any business or life advice you have received that has helped you along the way?

A. Keep a close eye on your financial position.

Q. What has been the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

A.  Surrounding ourselves and our company with outstanding people.

Q. How do you define true success- in life and/or in business?

A. Success equals strong faith, marriage, child-rearing and enough finances to provide for those people and entities important to you.

Q. Is there something that consistently inspires you creatively?

A. It is the natural world and the secrets she holds.

Dave has devoted his life to sharing the beauty of the outdoors with everyone he encounters. He has learned the importance of treating customers with the ultimate respect, keeping a clear eye on finances, and showing innovation in the face of change. Dave definitely loves what he does and genuinely enjoys the people he meets along the way.

It is deeply fulfulling to create a successful business out of a personal passion- has this been an element of your journey? Leave your comments below and join us again next Friday for our 6th Success Story!