Okanagan Valley Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

The Okanagan Valley feels like a secret slice of the Mediterranean dropped into the heart of British Columbia. It is a land of startling contrasts, where semi-arid desert landscapes covered in sagebrush give way to lush orchards and geometrical rows of vineyards that tumble down toward deep, sapphire-blue lakes. In the summer, the air smells of sun-baked pine and ripening peaches, while the winter transforms the surrounding peaks into a snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders.

Life here moves at a slower pace, dictated by the harvest and the sunshine. Whether you are sipping a bold Merlot on a winery patio, floating down a river channel with friends, or hiking through a canyon of historic railway trestles, the region invites you to breathe deeply and savor the moment. It is a place where farm-to-table isn’t a trend but a way of life, and where the connection between the land and the plate is celebrated daily.

The Napa of the North

The Okanagan’s unique geography is what makes it truly special. Carved by receding glaciers, the valley creates a microclimate that allows for the cultivation of delicate vinifera grapes much further north than usual. This has given rise to a booming wine industry boasting over 180 wineries. But beyond the wine, the valley holds deep cultural significance as the traditional territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) people. Their history is woven into the land, from the pictographs found on canyon walls to the spotted lakes that have been revered for their healing properties for centuries.

The region is essentially a string of communities connected by Highway 97 and a chain of lakes. From the bustling city vibes of Kelowna in the centre to the arid, desert-like heat of Osoyoos in the south and the rolling hills of Vernon in the north, each town offers a distinct flavour. You can start your day hiking in a cool pine forest and end it watching the sunset over a cactus-dotted landscape, all within a two-hour drive.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Mission Hill Family Estate - More than just a winery, this West Kelowna estate features a 12-story bell tower and world-class architecture. Tastings start around $45 CAD, and it is located about 15 km from downtown Kelowna.

Myra Canyon Trestles - A historic section of the Kettle Valley Railway featuring 18 trestles and two tunnels. It is free to hike, or you can rent bikes on-site for roughly $50 CAD. Located 24 km from downtown Kelowna.

Osoyoos Desert Centre - A 67-acre interpretative nature centre with a 1.5 km boardwalk through the semi-arid shrub-steppe. Admission is approximately $10 CAD. Located 4 km north of Osoyoos.

SS Sicamous Marine Heritage Park - The largest surviving sternwheeler in BC, permanently beached in Penticton. A fascinating museum visit costing roughly $10 CAD. Located on the shore of Okanagan Lake in Penticton.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to the Okanagan is straightforward, with the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) serving as the main hub. Renting a car is highly recommended, as the valley is spread out and public transit between cities is limited. Highway 97 is the main artery connecting the north and south; be prepared for slower traffic during peak summer months as it winds through towns.

When packing, think layers. The semi-arid climate means days can be scorching hot, reaching upwards of 35°C in July and August, but temperatures can drop quickly once the sun sets. Bring swimwear, comfortable hiking shoes, and a light jacket for the evenings. If you plan on fine dining or visiting upscale wineries, a smart-casual outfit is also a must.

Whether you come for the summer heat, the autumn harvest, or the winter powder, the Okanagan Valley delivers an experience that lingers on the palate long after you’ve left. Raise a glass to the golden hour and let the valley’s charm wash over you.