In 1974, Wilderness Tours Founder/President Joe Kowalski had a life changing decision to make. In his last year of a 4 year military obligation Joe had been promoted to Captain. With a desire to start Wilderness Tours after his army duty, his new found promotion and a promising military career gave Joe pause. In 1975 after much internal discourse, Joe decided to chase the dream of starting Wilderness Tours.

Through hard work and perseverance, Wilderness Tours became Canada’s top Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking company and with prestige comes opportunity. This came in the form of military units from all over Canada and the United Kingdom seeking out Wilderness Tours as a training location. Now, in 2024, Wilderness Tours offers training programs ranging from 1 day to several weeks.

With our origins as well as our location in the Ottawa Valley next to Garrison Petawawa, the Canadian Armed Forces have a very special place in our hearts.  Wilderness Tours is extending its military appreciation deal to all day trips on Fridays and Sundays.

Save 50% off using the coupon code: CAF50.  Any military or immediate family with military ID are eligible for this discount.  You have two ways to redeem, use the coupon code at check out our give us a call 888-723-8669 to book over the phone.  We do require all redeems to email us a picture of your ID upon reservation. Applicable on all day trips – excludes accommodations.