What Does the EUROPARC Certificate Mean for Us
The EUROPARC Federation has established sustainable tourism principles to promote responsible tourism in protected areas. Now Wanderlust is also part of this pan-European community—among businesses and destinations that have received the quality label from the Federation, ensuring high tourism standards and striving towards sustainability.
Wanderlust mainly operates in Lahemaa National Park, which was established to preserve and introduce the characteristic nature and cultural heritage of Northern Estonia. We are proud to contribute to the conservation and promotion of nature and historical landmarks in this area.
One step in the certification process was an interview. Below, you can read what our CEO, Signe Ohakas, had to say about Wanderlust’s sustainability efforts.
EUROPARC Certificate receivers in February 2025
HOW ARE WANDERLUST AND LAHEMAA CONNECTED?
Our main area of operation is Lahemaa National Park, as well as the nearby Põhja-Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve. Wanderlust is a member of the Lahemaa Tourism Association (Visit Lahemaa) and the Estonian Nature Tourism Association. Many of our local partners are also members of both organisations. In addition to introducing the local nature, we also highlight the region’s cultural heritage.
Meals at the Forest Restaurant served in reusable dishes
WHY DO YOU WANT A SUSTAINABLE TOURISM CERTIFICATE? WHY IS SUSTAINABILITY IMPORTANT?
Wanderlust Matkad OÜ’s primary clients are companies, organizations, and their teams. Today, sustainability is more important than ever, and our clients want to know that we offer our services in an environmentally friendly and responsible way. Therefore, we place great emphasis on environmental education during our hikes—explaining why we do things the way we do and what should be avoided.
Workshop on building birdhouses
WHAT HAVE YOU ACTUALLY DONE TO BE SUSTAINABLE? (SOME OF THE BEST EXAMPLES)
First, we have joined the best practice in bog-shoe tourism developed by the Estonian University of Life Sciences and nature tourism companies. Every Wanderlust bog hike begins with an introduction explaining that during snow-free periods, we remove sharp parts from the bog shoes to prevent damage to the bog surface. During the hike, we ask guests to move in a dispersed manner to avoid leaving trails. Larger groups are divided into smaller ones. We also explain why we do not organize bog hikes during the bird nesting season—observing the so-called “bog-shoe peace”.
Additionally, we always use reusable dishes for tea breaks and meals. For catering, we collaborate with local bakeries and food service providers in the Lahemaa region.
We also closely collaborate with the local community. For example, we have organized a workshop in the local community house where bird and insect houses were crafted. Such activities help engage the community, raise participants’ awareness, and provide opportunities to contribute through corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects. When organizing canoe trips, we rent canoes from local service providers.
IN SUMMARY
Obtaining a sustainable tourism certificate is an important step for us, but even more important is implementing its principles in our daily operations. Wanderlust’s activities are aimed at preserving and valuing Lahemaa’s unique nature and cultural heritage, operating in an environmentally friendly way, and engaging with local communities. Our goal is to offer experiences that help people to understand and protect the nature. By joining the EUROPARC Federation’s sustainable tourism network, we reaffirm our commitment to conscious and responsible nature tourism, so that future generations can also enjoy Estonia’s rich nature.
Hikers participating in cleanup work and stacking firewood at a campfire site
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