Tohono Chul

Tohono Chul is a botanical garden spanning 49 acres with more than 150 native tree species, 300 types of cacti, and 50 varieties of wildflowers set within the Sonoran Desert. The grounds display the natural plant life of this landscape through different themed sections.

The land was citrus groves in the 1920s under Maurice Reid, until Richard and Jean Wilson purchased it in 1966 to prevent commercial development. This purchase saved the area from urban expansion pressure.

The name comes from the Tohono O'odham language and means 'desert corner', reflecting the strong connection between this place and Native American communities. Visitors can experience how people traditionally lived with desert plants in this region.

The garden offers numerous walking paths through different themed areas and is well organized for self-guided visits. It's best to arrive early when it's cooler and wildlife is more active.

The garden serves as a corridor for 38 resident bird species and 57 seasonal migrant bird species, making it a significant birding destination. Gila monsters and bobcats also roam the grounds.

Location: Arizona

Inception: 1985

Website: http://tohonochul.org

GPS coordinates: 32.33970,-110.98100

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:25