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Flooded Forest, Water Lilies, Birdlife & One of Sakarya's Most Important Wetland Ecosystems

Acarlar Floodplain Forest – Complete Sakarya Visitor Guide

Walk above a seasonal flooded forest of ash trees, reeds and water lilies
between Karasu and Kaynarca in northern Sakarya.

Explore Acarlar Longozu

Acarlar Longozu – Where Forest and Water Become One Landscape

Acarlar Floodplain Forest, known in Turkish as Acarlar Longozu, is one of Sakarya's most distinctive natural landscapes. Located between the districts of Karasu and Kaynarca near the Black Sea, it is a rare floodplain-forest ecosystem where seasonal water, woodland, marsh vegetation and shallow channels merge into a single living wetland.

The longoz is especially known for its flooded woodland, white water lilies, reeds, wetland plants, birdlife and long wooden visitor walkway. The most recent Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality information describes a 1.5-kilometre wooden walking route through the visitor area, allowing people to experience the wetland without leaving the designated path.

Acarlar is not simply a scenic lake. It is a legally protected habitat of national ecological importance. The area is recognized as a Wetland of National Importance, and parts of the wider ecosystem are also protected through natural-site and wildlife-development designations.

For nature travelers, photographers and families exploring northern Sakarya, Acarlar offers a very different experience from the province's mountains, historic towns and conventional lakes: here the landscape changes with water levels, seasons, flowering plants and migration cycles.

Floodplain Forest

See a rare wetland ecosystem where trees, shallow water, reeds and marsh vegetation overlap.

1.5 km Boardwalk

Follow the current wooden visitor walkway through the wetland scenery and water-lily zones.

215 Bird Species

Municipal biodiversity data records a remarkable variety of resident and migratory birdlife.

Protected Wetland

Explore carefully within an ecosystem protected for its habitats, wildlife and hydrological value.

Know Before You Go

Acarlar Floodplain Forest – Quick Facts

Essential information for visiting one of northern Sakarya's most important natural areas.

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Location

Between Karasu and Kaynarca districts in northern Sakarya, close to the Black Sea coast.

Open on Google Maps
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Ecosystem

Floodplain forest, shallow wetland, marsh vegetation, reeds, wooded channels and seasonal water.

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Protection

Wetland of National Importance with additional natural-site and wildlife-development protection.

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Boardwalk

The current visitor route includes approximately 1.5 km of wooden walkway through the wetland landscape.

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Best-Known Feature

Water lilies, flooded trees, reflections, birdlife and the meeting of forest and wetland habitats.

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Suggested Visit

Allow 1.5–3 hours for the boardwalk, photography and a relaxed nature stop.

A Rare Black Sea Wetland Ecosystem

Why Is Acarlar Floodplain Forest Important?

Acarlar protects an unusual meeting point of forest, freshwater, marshland and migratory-bird habitat.

The defining feature of Acarlar is its longoz ecosystem. The Turkish word "longoz" is used for a floodplain or seasonally inundated forest: a landscape where woodland is periodically flooded and where water level, soil moisture and vegetation are closely linked.

This creates habitats that are very different from a normal forest or an open lake. Trees can stand beside or within shallow water, reeds and aquatic plants occupy wetter zones, and changing water levels influence feeding, breeding and shelter for many species.

Acarlar has long been recognized for conservation. The area has been protected through several legal designations, including first-degree natural-site protection, a Wildlife Development Area, and registration in 2019 as a Wetland of National Importance.

Official sources do not always use exactly the same boundary when describing Acarlar. Figures can refer separately to the core longoz, wildlife-development area or wider nationally important wetland. For travelers, the key point is that the visitor landscape forms part of a much larger and carefully protected ecological system.

For travelers using our guide to places to visit in Sakarya, Acarlar is one of the province's strongest nature stops and an excellent contrast to Sapanca Lake and the historic streets of Taraklı.

A Forest Shaped by Seasonal Water

What Is a Longoz Floodplain Forest?

A longoz is not simply a forest beside water. Its ecology depends on periodic flooding, high groundwater and soils that remain wet for part of the year. Water enters low-lying areas, spreads through woodland and creates shallow pools, channels and marshy zones between the trees.

During wetter periods, the landscape can appear almost lake-like, with tree trunks rising from water and reflections extending deep into the forest. As water levels fall, exposed ground and shallow margins become available to different plants, invertebrates, birds and other animals.

This seasonal rhythm is one reason floodplain forests support high biodiversity. Aquatic habitat, woodland shelter, open water, reeds, mud, shallow edges and drier ground can all exist within a relatively small area.

Seasonal Flooding

Water levels rise and fall through the year, changing the appearance and ecology of the longoz.

Wet Woodland

Trees adapted to moist soils form the structural heart of the floodplain forest.

Shallow Water

Calm pools and channels create habitat for aquatic plants, fish, amphibians and feeding birds.

Marsh Vegetation

Reeds and moisture-loving plants occupy transitions between forest and open water.

Dynamic Landscape

No two visits look exactly the same because water levels, flowering and bird activity are seasonal.

Fragile Hydrology

Changes to drainage, water quality or surrounding land use can affect the entire ecosystem.

Why the boardwalk matters: Staying on the designated wooden route helps visitors experience the wetland without trampling sensitive ground or disturbing flooded forest habitat.
Natural-Site, Wildlife and Wetland Protection

Protected Status of Acarlar Longozu

Acarlar has received several layers of conservation recognition. Official records state that the longoz was placed under first-degree natural-site protection in 1998, reflecting the sensitivity of its floodplain forest and wetland habitats.

The area also has a long history of wildlife protection. A section was first designated for the protection of pheasants and water birds in the 1970s, and the wider zone later became the Sakarya–Kaynarca–Acarlar Lake Wildlife Development Area. The protected wildlife boundary was revised again in 2022.

In 2019, Acarlar Gölü Longoz Ormanı was registered as a Wetland of National Importance. This status emphasizes not only visible scenery but also water regime, breeding habitat, migration value and the ecological relationship between forest and wetland.

1998

First-degree natural-site protection was formally recorded for the longoz ecosystem.

Wildlife Area

The landscape is also protected through the Acarlar Lake Wildlife Development Area.

2019

Acarlar Gölü Longoz Ormanı was registered as a Wetland of National Importance.

2022 Boundary Revision

Official nature-tourism records note a revised wildlife-development boundary of 2,752 hectares.

Protected Habitat

The conservation value extends well beyond the visitor walkway and social facilities.

Visitor Responsibility

Access should always follow designated routes, barriers, local rules and conservation guidance.

Flooding, Drawdown and a Landscape That Changes

The Seasonal Water Cycle at Acarlar

Acarlar's appearance is closely tied to rainfall, groundwater and seasonal water movement. The wetland expands during wetter periods and can contract significantly during drier months. This natural fluctuation is fundamental to the character of a floodplain forest.

Visitors therefore should not expect the same water depth or flooded-tree scenery in every season. A spring visit may show broad reflective surfaces and saturated woodland, while late summer can reveal more vegetation and exposed wetland margins.

The contrast is part of the experience. Rather than treating lower water as meaning the longoz has "disappeared," it is better to understand Acarlar as a living system that passes through different hydrological phases.

Wet Season

Higher water can produce classic flooded-forest views, reflections and wider wetland surfaces.

Spring

Fresh vegetation, bird activity and higher moisture often make this one of the richest periods to visit.

Early Summer

Water lilies and dense green vegetation become major visual highlights.

Late Summer

Water levels may be lower and marsh vegetation can become more prominent.

Autumn

Changing leaf tones add another layer of color to the wetland landscape.

After Heavy Rain

Conditions can change quickly; boardwalk surfaces may be wet and local access rules should be followed.

Ash Trees, Alders, Willows, Reeds and Aquatic Plants

Plant Life in Acarlar Floodplain Forest

Acarlar is botanically interesting because woodland and wetland vegetation overlap. Official nature-conservation descriptions highlight species such as ash, alder and willow, trees strongly associated with damp ground and floodplain conditions.

The lower and wetter zones support reeds, marsh plants and aquatic vegetation, while water surfaces can become covered with floating leaves and flowering lilies. The resulting layers — tree canopy, shrubs, reeds, open water and floating plants — create a complex habitat rather than a single uniform forest.

Recent Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality biodiversity information reports 74 plant families, 187 genera and 226 taxa, including three endemic species. Numbers may vary between inventories and survey periods, but all sources agree that the longoz supports unusually rich vegetation.

Ash Trees

A characteristic component of the wet woodland surrounding and entering flooded areas.

Alder

A moisture-loving tree associated with wet soils and riparian environments.

Willow

Common around wet margins where roots tolerate saturated ground and changing water levels.

Reeds

Dense reed beds provide shelter, nesting cover and habitat along shallow wetland margins.

Aquatic Plants

Floating and submerged vegetation adds both ecological value and seasonal color.

Endemic Plants

Municipal biodiversity data records three endemic plant species within the ecosystem.

The Signature Summer Sight

Water Lilies at Acarlar Longozu

For many visitors, the most memorable summer image of Acarlar is the water-lily-covered channels. Broad floating leaves spread across calm water while white flowers appear between reflections of forest and sky.

Water lilies are more than a photographic attraction. They are part of the aquatic plant community and provide shade, cover and habitat structure at the water surface. Their presence helps reveal how biologically rich the transition is between open water and forest.

Flowering intensity depends on season, temperature, water conditions and year-to-year variation. Visitors planning a trip specifically for lilies should therefore treat photographs from previous years as inspiration, not a guarantee that every channel will look identical.

Best Season

Late spring and summer usually offer the strongest chance of seeing active aquatic vegetation and flowers.

Morning Light

Calm conditions can produce excellent reflections and softer contrast for photography.

Boardwalk Views

The designated walking route gives several perspectives across water-lily and reed zones.

Do Not Pick

Leave flowers and aquatic plants untouched; they belong to a protected wetland ecosystem.

Use a Longer Lens

A telephoto lens helps isolate flowers without leaning over barriers or leaving the path.

Seasonal Variation

Water level and flowering conditions can change substantially from one visit to another.

Resident Birds, Migrants and Wetland Feeding Grounds

Birdwatching and Wildlife at Acarlar

Acarlar is important for birdlife because it combines shallow water, dense vegetation, trees, reeds and relatively sheltered wetland habitat. These different environments provide feeding, resting, nesting and stopover opportunities.

Recent Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality information reports 215 bird species associated with the area. Older official sources also emphasize the presence of water birds and pheasants, which were among the reasons parts of Acarlar received wildlife protection decades ago.

The wider ecosystem also supports mammals, reptiles and freshwater fish. Municipal biodiversity figures report 36 mammal species, 22 reptile species and 6 fish species. Official conservation descriptions mention animals such as fox, wild boar, weasel, squirrel and several freshwater fish.

215 Bird Species

Recent municipal data records a very high diversity of resident and migratory birdlife.

Water Birds

Shallow water and reed margins create productive feeding and resting areas.

Woodland Birds

Floodplain trees add a second habitat layer beyond the open wetland.

Mammals

Foxes, wild boar, squirrels and other mammals occur in the wider protected landscape.

Freshwater Fish

Official records include species such as catfish, pike, carp and rudd.

Observe Quietly

Low voices and slow movement improve wildlife sightings while reducing disturbance.

Birdwatching tip: Early morning is often the most rewarding time for quieter conditions, bird activity and soft light. Bring binoculars and remain on designated visitor routes.
The Main Visitor Experience

The Wooden Boardwalk at Acarlar Longozu

The wooden walkway is the easiest and most responsible way to experience Acarlar. It carries visitors through the wetland landscape without requiring them to step onto saturated ground, enter reed beds or disturb the flooded forest.

The most recent Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality update, published in September 2026, describes a 1.5-kilometre wooden walking route surrounded by water channels, lilies, vegetation and bird sounds.

Earlier municipal reports described longer walkway figures during renovation phases. Because route lengths can change with maintenance, redesign or which sections are counted, the current 1.5-kilometre figure is the most useful one for present-day trip planning.

1.5 km

Current municipal information describes approximately 1.5 km of wooden visitor walkway.

Easy Nature Access

The route provides close wetland views without requiring hiking through difficult terrain.

Photo Stops

Openings along the route reveal water, lilies, reeds and flooded woodland from different angles.

Family Friendly

The visitor route is easier than a conventional hiking trail, though supervision of children remains important.

Wet Surfaces

Wood can become slippery after rain or in humid conditions; wear shoes with reliable grip.

Stay Inside Barriers

Do not climb rails, step into the wetland or leave the designated route for photographs.

A Managed Entrance Beside a Protected Ecosystem

Visitor Facilities at Acarlar Longozu

The main visitor area has been improved in recent years with facilities designed to concentrate tourism at the edge of the protected wetland rather than disperse activity across sensitive habitat.

Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality reports facilities including a café, local-product sales area and souvenir unit near the visitor entrance. The area has also received landscaping and maintenance improvements.

These facilities make Acarlar suitable for a relaxed nature stop, but the longoz should still be approached primarily as a protected ecosystem rather than an amusement area. Services, operating hours and individual units can change seasonally.

Café

A municipal social facility operates in the visitor area; seasonal hours can vary.

Local Products

Look for regional products sold through designated visitor facilities.

Souvenir Unit

A small visitor-oriented retail unit forms part of the developed entrance zone.

Rest Areas

Use established seating and visitor zones rather than creating informal picnic spots inside wetland habitat.

Toilets

Visitor facilities are available in the managed entrance area; accessibility can vary by unit.

Seasonal Operations

Opening times and individual services may change outside peak periods or during maintenance.

The Best Experiences in the Longoz

What to See and Do at Acarlar Floodplain Forest

Acarlar rewards slow observation rather than a rushed checklist. The main experience is walking the boardwalk and watching how water, trees, reeds, lilies, reflections and wildlife change from one section to another.

Walk the Boardwalk

Follow the 1.5-kilometre wooden route through the main visitor zone.

Photograph Water Lilies

Look for floating leaves and white flowers during the warmer flowering season.

Listen for Birds

Pause in quieter sections and use binoculars rather than approaching wildlife.

Study the Flooded Forest

Notice how tree trunks, reeds and open water occupy different moisture zones.

Watch Reflections

Calm mornings can create mirror-like surfaces between the trees and aquatic plants.

Visit the Local-Product Area

Support designated local sales facilities after completing the nature walk.

Combine with Karasu

Continue toward the Black Sea coast, Sakarya River mouth or other northern Sakarya landscapes.

Photograph Seasonally

Return in another season to see how water level, leaves and wetland color transform the same viewpoints.

Best mindset: Acarlar is not about covering distance. Move slowly, stop often, listen for wildlife and look closely at the transition between forest and water.
Plan for Humidity, Insects and a Protected Wetland

Practical Tips for Visiting Acarlar Longozu

The main visitor route is straightforward, but wetland conditions are different from an ordinary urban park. Humidity, insects, slippery wooden surfaces and seasonal crowds are worth planning for.

Go Early

Morning usually offers quieter walking, better bird activity and softer photography light.

Wear Grippy Shoes

Wooden surfaces can become slippery after rain, dew or heavy humidity.

Bring Insect Protection

Mosquitoes and other insects are natural in wetland environments, especially in warm weather.

Carry Water

Summer humidity can make the walk feel warmer than the temperature suggests.

Use Binoculars

Birds are easier to enjoy from a respectful distance with binoculars or a long lens.

Avoid Loud Music

Keep the soundscape natural for wildlife and other visitors.

Check the Weather

Heavy rain, strong wind or maintenance can affect comfort and access.

Do Not Expect Identical Water Levels

The longoz changes seasonally; photographs taken in spring may look very different from late summer conditions.

For the best experience: arrive before the busiest part of the day, walk the boardwalk slowly, use the visitor facilities afterward and combine Acarlar with one nearby northern Sakarya stop.
A Simple First-Visit Plan

Suggested Acarlar Longozu Route

Begin at the main visitor entrance and take a few minutes to understand the layout, current access rules and any temporary closures before entering the boardwalk.

Walk slowly along the wooden route. The first sections introduce reeds and open water, while later viewpoints reveal stronger combinations of wet woodland, floating vegetation and reflections.

If you are interested in birds, stop periodically rather than walking continuously. Bird calls often reveal activity before you can see it. For photography, leave enough space for other visitors to pass safely.

After completing the boardwalk, return to the managed visitor area for a drink, rest or local-product stop. You can then continue toward Karasu, the Black Sea coast, the Sakarya River mouth or another northern Sakarya destination.

StartMain visitor entrance and orientation area
Walk1.5 km wooden wetland boardwalk
ObserveFlooded forest, reeds, lilies and seasonal water
Birding StopQuiet viewpoints along the route
PhotographyReflections, plant details and wider wetland scenes
FinishCafé, rest area or local-product facilities
ContinueKarasu coast, Yenimahalle or another northern Sakarya stop
Shorter option: If you have only about one hour, focus entirely on the boardwalk and skip additional stops at the visitor facilities.
Plan Your Visit

Acarlar Floodplain Forest Visitor Information

Acarlar has a developed visitor entrance and a defined walking route, but it remains part of a protected wetland. The practical experience can therefore change with maintenance, weather, water conditions and conservation requirements.

The latest municipal information confirms that the longoz continues to receive large numbers of visitors and that its wooden walking route and social facilities are actively maintained. Even so, travelers making a special journey should check current local conditions before departure.

LocationKarasu–Kaynarca area, northern Sakarya Province
Main AccessManaged visitor entrance near Denizköy / northern Acarlar area
BoardwalkApproximately 1.5 km according to the September 2026 municipal update
Suggested Time1.5–3 hours
Best ForNature, wetland ecology, birdwatching, photography and families
FacilitiesCafé, local-product and visitor-service units at the developed entrance
ProtectionNationally important wetland with additional protected-area designations
ImportantStay on designated routes and follow all current conservation rules
Admission and opening hours: These can change with management decisions, maintenance and seasonal operation. Confirm current conditions locally if your itinerary depends on a specific opening time.
Water, Flowers, Bird Migration and Seasonal Color

Best Time to Visit Acarlar Floodplain Forest

There is no single "correct" season for Acarlar. The best period depends on whether you want higher water, water lilies, bird activity, lush greenery or autumn color.

Spring

Excellent for fresh vegetation, active birdlife and a strong wetland atmosphere after the wetter season.

Early Summer

One of the best periods for green scenery, aquatic plants and water-lily photography.

High Summer

Beautiful but busier, warmer and more humid; arrive early for a calmer experience.

Autumn

Changing leaf tones, softer light and fewer peak-season visitors can create atmospheric photography.

Winter

Higher moisture and quiet conditions reveal the longoz as a hydrological landscape rather than a summer attraction.

Early Morning

Usually best for birds, reflections, comfortable temperatures and fewer people.

How Long to Spend

How Much Time Do You Need at Acarlar Longozu?

45–60 Minutes

A fast visit for part of the boardwalk and a few scenic viewpoints.

1.5–2 Hours

Enough for a comfortable boardwalk walk with regular stops for photographs.

2–3 Hours

Best for birdwatching, slow photography and time at the visitor facilities.

Half Day

Combine the longoz with Karasu coast, the Sakarya River mouth or another nearby nature stop.

Full Day

Create a wider northern Sakarya route including wetland, coast, river scenery and local food.

Repeat Visit

A second season can look dramatically different because water levels and vegetation change through the year.

Reflections, Lilies, Birds and Flooded Trees

Photography at Acarlar Floodplain Forest

Acarlar is one of Sakarya's strongest nature-photography locations because the scenery works at several scales: wide wetland landscapes, tree reflections, water-lily details, birdlife, reeds and intimate patterns in the flooded forest.

Morning Reflections

Calm water and low-angle light can create clean reflections between trees and lilies.

Water-Lily Details

Use a longer focal length to isolate flowers without crossing barriers or disturbing vegetation.

Boardwalk Lines

Curves and railings can lead the eye naturally through wetland compositions.

Bird Photography

A telephoto lens allows respectful distance and reduces pressure on wildlife.

Overcast Weather

Soft cloud cover can reduce harsh reflections and reveal richer greens in the forest.

Never Leave the Route

No photograph is worth damaging protected vegetation or entering sensitive wetland habitat.

A Boardwalk-Based Nature Experience

Accessibility at Acarlar Longozu

Compared with rugged hiking areas, Acarlar's wooden visitor route makes parts of the wetland relatively easy to experience. However, exact accessibility depends on the current condition of ramps, boardwalk transitions, entrances and visitor facilities.

Mostly Level Route

The boardwalk is generally easier than natural forest trails, but individual gradients may vary.

Wheelchair Planning

Confirm current ramp, surface, toilet and entrance conditions before a dedicated accessibility visit.

Strollers

The boardwalk can be suitable for many strollers, though busy periods and wet surfaces may slow movement.

Rest Opportunities

Use established visitor facilities and seating areas when available.

Wet Wood

Rain and humidity can make wooden surfaces more slippery for visitors with limited mobility.

Ask Staff

Local staff can advise on temporary closures, route conditions and the easiest current access.

Into Northern Sakarya Near the Black Sea

How to Get to Acarlar Floodplain Forest

Acarlar lies in northern Sakarya between Karasu and Kaynarca, close to the Black Sea coastal belt. The main visitor access is associated with the Denizköy side of the wetland.

From Adapazarı

The longoz is around 60 km from central Sakarya; exact travel time depends on route and traffic.

From Karasu

Acarlar is an easy addition to a northern Sakarya itinerary combining wetland and Black Sea scenery.

From Kaynarca

Approach through the rural road network west and south of the longoz, following current navigation guidance.

From Istanbul

A day trip is possible by private vehicle, but traffic makes an early departure strongly advisable.

Private Vehicle

The most flexible option for combining Acarlar with Karasu, Yenimahalle, Maden Deresi or other northern stops.

Public Transport

Regional transport can require connections; verify current routes and final access before travelling without a car.

Navigation tip: Search for Acarlar Longozu rather than relying only on a broad district name, as the wetland spans the Karasu–Kaynarca area and access points are not interchangeable.
Continue Through Northern Sakarya

Places to Visit Near Acarlar Longozu

Acarlar works especially well as part of a northern Sakarya nature route. Use our complete Sakarya visitor guide to connect the wetland with Black Sea beaches, river scenery, forests and cultural stops.

Karasu Coast

Continue to the Black Sea for broad beaches, sea views and a complete contrast to the enclosed wetland landscape.

Karasu Yenimahalle

See the area where the Sakarya River reaches the Black Sea and enjoy river-and-coast scenery.

Maden Deresi

Combine the longoz with a forested valley, streams and one of northern Sakarya's classic nature excursions.

Sakarya Botanic Valley

Add a cultivated landscape stop to a route otherwise focused on wild wetland and coastal ecosystems.

Poyrazlar Lake

Compare Acarlar's flooded forest with a more open lake-and-woodland recreation landscape near Adapazarı.

Sapanca Lake

Continue southwest for a larger freshwater lake framed by forested mountains and well-developed visitor areas.

Taraklı

Balance nature with Ottoman houses, historic streets, Yunus Paşa Mosque and traditional small-town atmosphere.

Explore Sakarya

Discover wetlands, lakes, Byzantine bridges, plateaus, waterfalls, Black Sea beaches and local food across the province.
Useful Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Acarlar Floodplain Forest

Where is Acarlar Floodplain Forest?

Acarlar Longozu lies in northern Sakarya Province between the districts of Karasu and Kaynarca, close to the Black Sea.

What is Acarlar Longozu?

It is a protected floodplain-forest and wetland ecosystem where seasonal water, woodland, reeds, marsh vegetation and shallow channels occur together.

What does "longoz" mean?

Longoz is the Turkish term commonly used for a floodplain or seasonally flooded forest whose ecology depends on periodic inundation and high groundwater.

Is Acarlar Longozu worth visiting?

Yes. It is one of Sakarya's most distinctive nature destinations and is particularly rewarding for wetland scenery, water lilies, birdwatching and photography.

Is Acarlar Longozu protected?

Yes. It has natural-site and wildlife protection and was registered as a Wetland of National Importance in 2019.

How long is the Acarlar Longozu boardwalk?

The latest Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality information from September 2026 describes a wooden walking route of approximately 1.5 kilometres.

Why do some older sources give a different boardwalk length?

Earlier renovation reports used longer figures. Routes and measurement methods can change, so the current municipal figure is the best one to use for present-day planning.

How large is Acarlar Longozu?

Official sources use different figures because they refer to different boundaries, including the core longoz, wildlife-development area and wider protected wetland. The core longoz is commonly cited at roughly 1,562 hectares.

Is Acarlar the largest floodplain forest in Türkiye?

Different official sources use different ranking definitions. Nature-conservation authorities describe Acarlar as Türkiye's second-largest longoz after İğneada, while some municipal material describes it as the largest or longest single-piece floodplain forest. It is safest to describe Acarlar as one of Türkiye's largest and most important longoz ecosystems.

When was Acarlar declared a nationally important wetland?

Acarlar Gölü Longoz Ormanı was registered as a Wetland of National Importance on 7 February 2019.

What trees grow at Acarlar?

Official sources particularly mention ash, alder and willow, together with other moisture-loving woodland vegetation.

Are there water lilies at Acarlar Longozu?

Yes. Water lilies are one of the wetland's best-known seasonal sights, especially during the warmer flowering period.

What is the best time to see water lilies?

Late spring and summer usually offer the strongest chance, but flowering depends on annual water and weather conditions.

Is Acarlar good for birdwatching?

Yes. Recent municipal biodiversity information records 215 bird species associated with the area.

What other wildlife lives at Acarlar?

The wider ecosystem supports freshwater fish, reptiles and mammals including fox, wild boar, weasel and squirrel, among many other species.

Can you walk through Acarlar Longozu?

Visitors experience the main wetland through the designated wooden boardwalk. Do not leave the path or enter sensitive flooded areas.

Can you take a boat at Acarlar Longozu?

Older tourism sources mention boat and pedal-boat activities, but protected-area rules and available services can change. Do not assume water access is operating; follow current on-site guidance.

How long should I spend at Acarlar Longozu?

Allow around 1.5–3 hours for a relaxed walk, photography and time at the visitor facilities.

What is the best season to visit Acarlar?

Spring and early summer are excellent for greenery, birds and aquatic plants, while autumn offers softer light and changing forest color.

What is the best time of day to visit?

Early morning is usually best for quieter conditions, bird activity, comfortable temperatures and reflections.

Is Acarlar suitable for families?

Yes. The boardwalk makes the main visitor area relatively easy to explore, but children should remain supervised around water and railings.

Is Acarlar wheelchair accessible?

Parts of the boardwalk-based visitor route may be suitable, but ramp conditions, transitions and facilities should be confirmed locally before a dedicated accessibility visit.

Are there facilities at Acarlar Longozu?

Yes. The managed visitor area includes a café, local-product sales and visitor-service units, though hours may vary seasonally.

Are there mosquitoes at Acarlar?

Yes, insects are a normal part of wetland environments. Repellent and light protective clothing can be useful in warm weather.

Can I pick water lilies or plants?

No. Acarlar is a protected wetland. Leave flowers, branches, aquatic plants and all natural material where they are.

Can I fly a drone at Acarlar Longozu?

Do not assume drone use is permitted in a protected wildlife area. Check current official rules and obtain any required permission before flying.

Can I visit Acarlar as a day trip from Istanbul?

Yes, particularly by private vehicle, but allow extra time for Istanbul traffic and consider combining the longoz with Karasu or another northern Sakarya stop.

What places can I combine with Acarlar Longozu?

Good combinations include Karasu, the Sakarya River mouth at Yenimahalle, Maden Deresi, Poyrazlar Lake, Sapanca Lake and Taraklı.

Protect a Living Wetland

Responsible Visiting at Acarlar Longozu

Stay on the Boardwalk

Never enter reed beds, flooded ground or forest areas outside designated visitor routes.

Do Not Pick Plants

Water lilies and wetland vegetation are part of a protected ecosystem, not souvenirs.

Keep Noise Low

Quiet visitors have better wildlife encounters and cause less disturbance to birds and mammals.

Do Not Feed Wildlife

Feeding changes natural behavior and can damage the ecological balance of the wetland.

Take All Waste Away

Use designated bins and never leave food packaging, cigarette ends or plastic in the wetland environment.

Respect Barriers

Railings and restricted zones protect both visitors and sensitive habitat; do not cross them for photographs.

Avoid Disturbing Birds

Do not approach nests, flush resting birds or play recorded bird calls repeatedly.

Follow Current Rules

Protected-area regulations can change with season, fire risk, maintenance or conservation needs.

Explore Natural Sakarya with Us

Private Acarlar Longozu & Sakarya Experiences

Combine Acarlar's floodplain forest, wooden boardwalk, birdlife and water-lily scenery with northern Sakarya's Black Sea coast, river landscapes and other natural attractions through a private route shaped around your interests.

Custom Northern Sakarya Nature Experience

Choose a focused half-day visit or a full-day private route combining wetland ecology, photography, birdwatching, coastal scenery and nearby natural stops.

Sakarya Turkey wetlands lakes forests rivers Black Sea coast and historic towns

Explore Sakarya

Discover floodplain forests, lakes, Byzantine bridges, waterfalls, mountain landscapes, Black Sea beaches, historic towns and local food across Sakarya Province.

View Sakarya Guide

Continue Exploring the Region

Connect Acarlar with Sakarya's lake landscapes and historic inland towns.

Tarakli Sakarya Ottoman houses historic streets traditional Turkey

Taraklı

Continue inland for traditional Ottoman houses, historic streets, Yunus Paşa Mosque and one of Sakarya's strongest cultural experiences.

Explore Taraklı