I recently spent just over 24 hours in Osoyoos and was surprised by how much of the region I was able to experience in such a short time. By the end of the trip, I’d ridden horseback through the South Okanagan, toured North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery and watched the sun set over the vineyards with a glass of local wine in hand. It also gave me a better understanding of how Indigenous-owned businesses have become an integral part of the visitor experience in Osoyoos.

Located in the South Okanagan, Osoyoos sits within the traditional territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) people. The Osoyoos Indian Band owns and operates several tourism businesses throughout the area, making it possible to weave Indigenous-owned experiences into an entire itinerary.

EXPLORING WITH GRAPE SAVVY WINE TOURS

One of the easiest ways to do that is through Grape Savvy Wine Tours, founded by Métis entrepreneur Savannah “Savvy” Swaisland. The local tour company offers curated experiences throughout the South Okanagan, including Saddle Up & Sip, which combines outdoor adventure with visits to some of the region’s most notable attractions. Someone else handles the driving, leaving you free to take in the scenery between stops.

HORSEBACK RIDING IN THE SOUTH OKANAGAN

The day’s highlight came early with a horseback ride through the South Okanagan’s distinctive semi-arid landscape. We rode through shallow water along the lakeshore, climbed dusty trails overlooking the valley and quickly discovered that this landscape is teeming with wildlife. Along the way, our guide pointed out rattlesnakes basking in the sun and, to everyone’s excitement, we even spotted a bear cub in the distance. It was a reminder that this part of B.C. feels a world away from the rainforests and alpine peaks many visitors expect.

A TOUR AND TASTING AT NK’MIP CELLARS

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The afternoon shifted from saddle to cellar at Nk’Mip Cellars.

Opened in 2002, Nk’Mip Cellars was the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America. The award-winning wines are reason enough to visit, and the estate tour is what makes the experience memorable. Our tour explored Syilx culture, the history of the Osoyoos Indian Band and the vision that led to the creation of the winery. It gave us a more in-depth understanding of the land we were standing on and the role the winery plays within the community.

After the tour, we settled in for a tasting overlooking the vineyards. Each wine reflected the unique growing conditions of the South Okanagan, where hot, dry summers help shape the region’s wines. Nk’Mip offers plenty of reasons to linger over another pour.

STAYING AT SPIRIT RIDGE

Just a short walk away sits Spirit Ridge, part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt. Owned by the Osoyoos Indian Band, the resort overlooks Osoyoos Lake and the surrounding vineyards, making it easy to slow the pace after a busy day. Think spacious suites, pools and walking paths that encourage guests to settle in rather than simply use it as a place to sleep between activities.

DINNER AT SWEETGRASS

Dinner at Sweetgrass Restaurant capped off the evening. The menu showcases regional ingredients paired with Okanagan wines, while the patio offers sweeping views across the valley as the sun begins to dip behind the hills. After a full day of exploring, it felt like the perfect place to unwind before calling it a night.

The next morning, I was back on a flight to Vancouver, struck by how much could fit into a quick overnight escape. My visit showed how Indigenous-owned businesses help shape the experience in Osoyoos. By supporting them, visitors can gain a richer understanding of the region while enjoying some of its best food, wine and hospitality.

For anyone planning a trip to the South Okanagan, it’s an itinerary that’s well worth following.