What is yaya?

Yayla, often romanized as "yayla," refers to a highland pasture or mountain meadow, typically used for transhumance. This is a type of pastoralism or nomadism in which livestock are moved between seasonal pastures.

Yayla areas are particularly prevalent in the Pontic Mountains region of Turkey, but the practice and similar landscapes can be found in other mountainous regions globally. During the summer months, families and communities traditionally move their livestock (sheep, goats, cattle, etc.) to these yayla areas to graze, escaping the heat and utilizing the abundant vegetation at higher altitudes.

In addition to their economic importance for livestock raising, yayla areas are also significant for their biodiversity and ecological value. They often support unique plant and animal communities. Furthermore, many yayla areas are also becoming increasingly popular destinations for ecotourism and other forms of outdoor recreation, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains.