Karaca Arboretum

Karaca Arboretum is a private botanical garden in Yalova that displays a broad range of tree species and plants from around the world. The grounds are carefully arranged to show plants from different climates and regions in an organized collection.

The arboretum was founded in 1980 by Turkish businessman Hayrettin Karaca, who transformed an empty plot into a substantial botanical collection. The facility grew from its beginning as a place for preserving and studying plant species.

The grounds display plant species from different climates and regions growing side by side in ways that reflect global botanical connections. Visitors can observe how plants from distant lands thrive together and adapt to the local environment.

The site is mainly accessible on weekends and requires planned visits since it is a private property. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as walking through different sections forms the main way to explore.

The arboretum received recognition in 2004 from the International Dendrology Society for its contributions to plant science. This honor reflects its standing as a research and collection site of international importance.