Scientists May Have Found the “Wanderlust Gene” — Do You Have It?

You know the type: passport always at the ready, able to pack for an international trip in twenty minutes flat, happiest when they’re hopping between time zones. They’d rather take three trips a year than buy a new car. Exploring is in their DNA — and as it turns out, that might literally be true.

Recent research suggests that our love for travel might be more than just a personality trait — it could be genetic.

One gene in particular, known as DRD4, plays a role in regulating dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemical. Dopamine is released when we experience something rewarding — whether it’s a slice of decadent chocolate cake or the rush of reaching a mountaintop view after a long hike.

A specific variant of this gene, DRD4-7R, has been dubbed the “wanderlust gene.” Only about 20% of the population carries it, and those who do often report higher levels of curiosity, restlessness, and a deep desire to explore new places. In fact, nearly everyone who has the 7R variant shares one major thing in common: a history of frequent travel.

Of course, it’s not as simple as one gene determining your love of adventure. But researchers believe this mutation may be connected to our evolutionary history. Humans are uniquely built for exploration — our upright posture, agile hands, and creative brains set us apart from other primates. Some scientists suggest the DRD4-7R variant may have originated in populations that migrated across great distances, where adaptability and curiosity were necessary for survival — and eventually passed down through generations.

Dr. Richard Paul Ebstein, Professor of Psychology at the National University of Singapore, digs deeper into this fascinating genetic connection in this article. He notes that carriers of the 7R variant often display “novelty-seeking or extraverted behavior” — traits that pair perfectly with a love for new places, people, and experiences.

Sound like anyone you know?

Whether you’re a confirmed carrier of the “wanderlust gene” or just someone who feels that familiar itch to see something new, now’s the perfect time to start dreaming about your next great escape.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Contact us and let’s get started!