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Malatya Apricot Orchards

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

Weather…

Malatya is globally recognized as the 'Apricot Capital of the World,' providing approximately 80% of the world's total dried apricot production. The province's location at the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, combined with its continental climate and nutrient-rich soil, creates the first-rate environment for these fruits to thrive. The 'Hacıhaliloğlu' variety is the most widely cultivated type, prized for its high dry matter content and intense, sweet flavor, making it superior for sun-drying. Apricot cultivation has been central to Malatya's economy and cultural identity for centuries, often referred to locally as 'yellow gold.' In 2017, Malatya Apricots received the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status from the European Union, a testament to their unique quality and regional significance. Harvesting begins in July, during which the vast orchards and drying yards turn the landscape into a sea of gold as the fruit is naturally dehydrated under the sun. With more than 8 million apricot trees, Malatya remains the undisputed global hub for the apricot industry.

Location: Turkey
Top sights: İsmet İnönü Heykeli · Tahtalı Minare Cami · Malatya Müzesi

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-2	1	6	11	16	22	26	27	22	15	7	1
Rain mm	49	47	49	55	45	12	3	2	9	35	42	49

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Malatya Apricot Orchards in the eastern Turkish province of Malatya are the world's leading cultivation area for sweet apricots. This fruit crop defines the region's economy and is a major income source for the local population.

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Visiting

Many orchards are visible along rural roads in Malatya, and some farms welcome visitors during harvest season. Access to plantations is usually open, but entering fields should be arranged with owners.

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Where to view it

The hills around Malatya provide excellent panoramic views of the terraced apricot orchards. Especially from the road to Battalgazi or from Malatya Castle one gets a wide vista over the plantations.

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Local products

The main product is dried apricots, which are processed in large quantities in the region. Fresh fruit, apricot jam, juice, and kernels are also available at Malatya's bazaars.

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Active season

The main harvest runs from early June to late July, when plantations are most active and roads filled with harvest vehicles. Drying of fruits takes place directly in the gardens in the following weeks.

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Nearby

A good combination is visiting Malatya's historic center with its Ulu Mosque and Archaeology Museum. Also the Roman settlement of Arslantepe and Beydağı National Park offer a varied day trip.

Geography

Coordinates

38.35000, 38.31670

Facts

Malatya produces roughly 80% of the world's supply of dried apricots.
The province is home to an estimated total of over 8 million apricot trees.
The 'Hacıhaliloğlu' variety accounts for about 90% of the local production.
Granted the EU Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status in 2017.
Annual exports of dried apricots from the region exceed 100,000 tons.
The apricot industry is the primary economic driver for the province of Malatya.