Welcome to Osoyoos,
Canada’s only desert and perfect vacation spot!

Located in the Sonora Desert in south-central BC, the little town of Osoyoos lies next to 17-mile long Lake Osoyoos, the warmest fresh water lake in Canada. The name Osoyoos (pronounced “o-sue-use”) derives from “SooYoos”, an Aboriginal Native word referring to a narrowing or where two lakes almost meet. Much of the southwest-style architecture is inspired by the First Nations history and desert backdrop. The area’s unique microclimate produces hot dry summers and mild winters, perfect for the bountiful vineyards and orchards that blanket the banks of the lake and the surrounding Okanogan Valley.

Besides water-sports such as boating, water-skiing, wake-boarding and wind-surfing, activities abound in the area; walking, hiking, cycling and horse-riding to just plain relaxing on the sandy lakeside beaches. Stroll the town’s main street with its many unique shops and restaurants as well as banks, supermarkets and liquor store. Grab a latte, visit the museum, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the lake or go and see one of the local plays held in the outdoor amphitheatre. The Osoyoos Golf and Country Club has breath-taking views of the area but tee-off early on summer mornings to avoid the heat. A lively, frolicking street dance is a big hit with families for two Fridays in the summer or the amusement park Rattlesnake Canyon, for any night of the season. Finish the day with a walk to the lake to watch the sunset over the mountains in the cooler evenings. For winter skiing, Mount Baldy is only one hour away. Osoyoos really does have it all.