The park was founded in 1993 by businessman Faruk Yalçın as a private collection that eventually evolved into a public zoo.
It is an accredited member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).
The botanical garden component contains specimens of trees and plants that are rare to find in the Marmara region.
The facility serves as a temporary sanctuary for animals confiscated by authorities or rescued from illegal trade.
Certain enclosures are designed using bio-filtration systems to maintain water quality for aquatic species.
The park is home to a significant population of lemurs which are part of a managed international breeding program.
The grounds feature interpretive signage detailing the specific conservation status of each housed animal species.
It remains one of the few places in Turkey where visitors can observe the rare Mesopotamian fallow deer.
Faruk Yalçın Hayvanat Bahçesi ve Botanik Parkı is Turkey's largest zoo by species diversity, housing over 3,000 animals across approximately 250 species. The facility doubles as a botanical park, maintaining a collection of over 400 different plant species integrated throughout the animal habitats. It functions as a center for conservation, participating in EEP (EAZA Ex-situ Programmes) for endangered species. The zoo is divided into thematic sections that mimic natural environments to promote animal welfare and educational observation. Visitors can view animals ranging from large carnivores like lions and tigers to various primates, reptiles, and birds. The park includes a dedicated aquarium section and specialized enclosures for species such as the Siberian tiger and Nile crocodile. Extensive paths wind through the botanical gardens, providing year-round foliage viewing. The park actively engages in rehabilitation efforts for injured wildlife brought to the facility. It is located in Darıca, Kocaeli, serving as a primary zoological attraction near the Sea of Marmara.
The elevated viewing deck overlooking the primate enclosures provides a clear panoramic view of the grounds.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes as the park covers a large, hilly area.
Bring a reusable water bottle, as the park has refill stations to reduce plastic waste.
Download the park's digital map or use the onsite signage, as the layout is expansive and multi-leveled.
Avoid visiting during extreme midday summer temperatures when many animals retreat to shaded, interior areas out of sight.
Open year-round, seven days a week, though some outdoor exhibits may have limited visibility during heavy winter rain.
Do not feed the animals, do not tap on glass enclosures, and maintain a quiet voice near predator exhibits.
