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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
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Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go

Updated: January 19th, 2022

BC tour operators, accommodation providers and attraction hosts have implemented stringent protocols to keep visitors safe, and visitors are asked to return the favour by travelling responsibly this Winter.

Let’s do our part by following provincial health orders and continuing to support local businesses in accordance with the latest health orders.

For more information about the latest Provincial Health Orders, visit
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/travel/current

#visitpenticton #lovelocalPenticton #exploreBC

Travel Updates and Information

Current public health measures:

  • No organized indoor social events and gatherings of any size
  • Concerts, sports games and theatres are reduced to 50% seated capacity, regardless of venue size
  • Bars and nightclubs that do not offer full meal service are closed
  • Tables at restaurants, cafes and pubs are limited to a maximum of six people per table with physical distancing or barriers
  • Indoor, personal gatherings are limited to the household/residents plus 10 individuals, or one additional household maximum, and everyone aged 12 and older must be fully vaccinated
  • The BC Vaccine Card is required for organized events of all sizes and the QR code is scanned at events
  • Movement between tables at food and liquor-serving premises is restricted, and masks must be worn when not seated
  • Venues of 1,000 individuals or more are limited to 50% of the seating capacity with reinforced masking requirements and scanning of the BC Vaccine Card QR code
  • All sports tournaments are paused

Highway closures and travel restrictions:

  • Please check Drive BC for an up-to-date list of the latest restrictions and advisories
  • On January 19, the Coquihalla Highway will reopen to all traffic
  • Closures remain along sections of Highway 1 north of Hope, and along Highway 8 between Merritt and Spences Bridge

Air travel to BC:

Incoming air travellers from all countries except the United States will be required to take COVID-19 tests when they arrive in Canada (at the airport where they land). There is no cost to the traveller for these tests.

  • For those arriving at YVR, please read here for more information.
  • For those arriving at other international airports in BC, please read here for more information.
  • Tests will be required of all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status. The requirement will also apply to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
  • Incoming travellers will have to self-isolate until they receive results of the test.
  • Canada has temporarily implemented travel restrictions to incoming travellers from certain countries in response to the omicron variant. See the list here.
  • All travellers aged 12 and older taking flights leaving Canadian airports or travelling on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains must be fully vaccinated before boarding.
  • Marine passengers on non-essential passenger vessels like cruise ships must also complete the vaccination series before travelling. Marine vessels do not include ferries.
  • For the latest information on travel to Canada including the updated federal requirements and restrictions, please visit the Government of Canada website here.
  • Further details on the COVID-19 situation in BC can be found here.

The Province has created a dedicated phone service to provide British Columbians with non-medical information about COVID-19, including the latest information on travel recommendations and social distancing. Information is available in more than 110 languages, seven days a week between 7:30 am-8 pm, at 1-888-COVID19 (1-888-268-4319) or via text message at 1-888-268-4319.

Read important updates on highway restrictions and advisories

Drive BC

Read important updates on BC travel.

BC Travel Updates

Read updates on the Canadian border and international travel advisories.

Canadian Border Updates

Read important updates from BC Parks.

BC Parks Updates

Read updates on BC Ferries schedules and procedures. It is advisable to make a reservation for BC Ferries.

BC Ferries Updates

How To Explore Safely and Responsibly During COVID-19

If you are planning to visit Penticton, here are some guidelines for exploring our community.

  • Do not travel if you are sick
  • Practice 2 meters physical distancing at all times
  • Wash your hands regularly
  • Masks are recommended and still mandatory in some indoor public spaces
  • Reduce your contact in the community by bringing essentials with you
  • Plan ahead and book activities, accommodation, dining reservations, wine tastings and experiences in advance. Review the booking and cancellation policies
  • Respect the safety procedures enacted by the businesses you visit
  • Adhere to any local closures or restricted access to communities

Follow the direction of the Provincial Health Officer and keep up to date on changing guidelines and regulations. If you would like to know how local businesses are keeping customers safe, check their website, social media, or give them a call to inquire.

Penticton Visitor Centre
Main Location

Located at:
888 Westminster Ave West
Penticton, BC
V2A 8S2

Hours:
Monday to Friday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday & Sunday
Closed

Penticton Visitor Centre
Peach Location

Located at:
185 Lakeshore Dr
Penticton, BC
V2A 1B7

Hours:
Monday to Friday
8:30am – 4:30pm
Saturday & Sunday
Closed

Tips for Being Safe While Participating in Outdoor Activities this Winter

  • Know how to recognize avalanche terrain
  • Check the forecast
  • Dress warmly or pack an extra layer
  • Mingle in mountain communities respectfully
  • If an area is congested, be patient or change your plans
  • Practice low-risk activities and recreation
  • Pack in and pack out. Do not leave anything behind
  • Stay informed and respect any trail, beach, park, or local area closures as posted
  • Be AdventureSmart at all times and follow the 3 T’s: Trip Plan, Train, and Take Essentials

Additional Resources

Stay Informed