Getting Here

The Thompson Okanagan is a diverse region in the Interior of the province of British Columbia, with equally diverse ways of regional travel and inter-community transportation. Communities within this region can conveniently be reached via car, bus, or plane ride. Once here, you can travel between the communities that make up this region in familiar and unique ways. Whether you rent a car for a road trip through the region, take a train up the Thompson Valley, or hop on a charter bus, there are many ways of getting around. Whether you're planning a weekend away, a family vacation, or a business trip, the transportation options available to you will fit your needs and budget!

Flying

Driving

Rail

Busing

By Plane

Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Kelowna International Airport (YLW) serve as the primary international gateways to the Thompson Okanagan. From there, northern communities can be accessed from Kamloops Airport (YKA) and southern communities by Penticton Airport (YYF). Float planes and helicopter services are also readily available, offering short, scenic flights.

Pacific Coastal Airlines offers a unique access within the British Columbia. They service 18 airport destinations in the province including 3 within the Thompson Okanagan and flights between Vancouver Island.

By Car

From Vancouver, B.C.

  • Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway): A scenic drive that takes approximately 4-5 hours to the Thompson Valley or Central Okanagan.

  • Highway 97: Offers direct access to and within the Okanagan Valley.

  • Highway 3: A winding adventure to the Similkameen Valley, Southern Okanagan and over to Boundary Country.

From Calgary AB

  • Highway 1: Drive west through the Rocky Mountains.

  • Highway 97: Connects to Highway 1 at Sicamous.

From Seattle WA

  • Interstate 5 North: Connects to Highway 97 in Washington State, then crosses the border to Highway 97 and 33 in British Columbia.

By Bus

BC Transit provides regional bus services connecting major towns and cities within the Thompson Okanagan region.

Ebus offers intercity bus services with routes connecting to Vancouver, Calgary, and other major cities.

Silver City Stagelines, based in Trail, operates between the Nelson, Castlegar, Trail and Kelowna with many additional stops. They offer ski-tours, charters and intercity travel.

By Rail

In Kamloops, experience luxury rail travel with the Rocky Mountaineer. They offers breathtaking routes through the Rockies and into the Thompson Okanagan region. Stops include Kamloops and other destinations outside the region.

Getting around while your here

While visiting a community there are many ways for intercity travel. Some options included local transit, taxi services, shuttles, and more. If you prefer a fuel free option, visitors can rent E-bikes, scooters, or opt for carpooling ride shares. Here are some modes of transportation offered in many communities.

Emergency preparedness is something to consider when visiting the Thompson Okanagan, a large region where travel plans can be affected by emergencies. We're here to provide guidance, information, and safety tips for your visit. Please check the Know Before You Go page before, and during your trip to ensure your informed on your vacation in case of any emergencies.