Donkey Sanctuary Aruba
A compassionate haven for rescued donkeys, offering visitors a chance to feed and interact with these gentle creatures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, active donkeys
Donkey Sanctuary Aruba
Best Time
Cooler temps, active donkeys
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A compassionate haven for rescued donkeys, offering visitors a chance to feed and interact with these gentle creatures.
"A must-visit in Aruba! You can meet, pet, and feed the sweetest rescued donkeys. "
🎯 Bring Snacks for Donkeys
Carrots & apples are favorites! You can also buy feed bags for a small donation.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Watch your step for droppings; comfortable shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hand-Feeding the Donkeys
Experience the joy of feeding gentle, rescued donkeys by hand. They're known to be very sweet and won't bite!
Meet Other Sanctuary Residents
Beyond donkeys, you might also spot peacocks and friendly cats and kittens available for adoption.
Support Animal Rescue
Your visit and donations directly contribute to providing a safe haven for injured and abused donkeys.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Feed the Gentle Giants
Support a Worthy Cause
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Snacks for Donkeys
Carrots & apples are favorites! You can also buy feed bags for a small donation.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Watch your step for droppings; comfortable shoes are a must!
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations help care for the animals.
🚗 Easy to Find
Signs guide you there, often on the way to Baby Beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Snacks for Donkeys
Carrots & apples are favorites! You can also buy feed bags for a small donation.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Watch your step for droppings; comfortable shoes are a must!
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations help care for the animals.
🚗 Easy to Find
Signs guide you there, often on the way to Baby Beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors overwhelmingly praise the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba for its heartwarming mission and the joy of interacting with the gentle animals. The free entry and affordable feed options make it a highly recommended, budget-friendly experience for all ages. Some note the need to watch their step due to animal droppings.
"We absolutely loved the donkey sanctuary. It’s a little hidden but there are signs that lead to the sanctuary. Watch your steps as you might step in poop. They are a super friendly staff and very easy going. You can purchase feed there for a small amount of money or you can bring your own carrots and feed the donkeys. They have kittens available for adoption as well. Bathrooms have toilet and running water with soap to wash your hands after feeding. The donkeys are very sweet and friendly and will let you pet them. They do a really good job with these animals. I recommend checking it out!"
Brian B.
"This was my first time visiting the Donkey Sanctuary, and I really enjoyed it! Feeding the donkeys was such a fun experience they’re very friendly and gentle. It’s definitely a must-do when in Aruba. Just a little tip: watch your step since there are droppings around, and wear comfortable shoes. Also, bring a few dollars for donations and to buy food for the donkeys it’s well worth it."
Daevon Bethea
"Very fun experience visiting and feeding the animals. We saw the donkeys, peacocks and chickens all gathering around for food. The donkeys were gentle and never bit us even when hand feeding. Only 3 dollars for a large bag of feed or 1 for a small so its budget friendly. Otherwise its free to come and explore and see the creatures."
Zachariah Wood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located on the way to Baby Beach, making it a convenient stop. Look for signs directing you to the sanctuary. Many visitors find it easily accessible by car.
Parking is generally available at the sanctuary. It's a good idea to arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
While not always a dedicated tour stop, many Aruba excursions include a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary as it's a popular and worthwhile attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visiting the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba is free! However, they gratefully accept donations to help care for the animals.
Yes, you can purchase feed bags for the donkeys at the sanctuary. Small bags are typically $1 and larger ones are $2, making it very budget-friendly.
The sanctuary is generally open during daylight hours, with mornings often recommended for cooler temperatures and more active animals. It's best to check their official social media for any specific updates.
No, the Donkey Sanctuary is a family-friendly destination. Children can enjoy interacting with the animals under adult supervision.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see many friendly donkeys, peacocks, and cats. You'll have the opportunity to pet and hand-feed the donkeys, which is a highlight for most visitors.
The donkeys at the sanctuary are known for being very gentle and sweet. Visitors often report that they are safe to pet and hand-feed, even with treats.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended. Be mindful of donkey droppings on the ground, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
Yes, restrooms with running water and soap are available for visitors to wash their hands after interacting with the animals.
The sanctuary welcomes volunteers, especially those interested in animal care. It's a rewarding experience, particularly for families looking to teach children about empathy and responsibility.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Bringing your own carrots, apples, or other donkey-safe fruits is a great idea. The donkeys love a variety of treats.
Yes, the sanctuary sells feed bags for the donkeys at very affordable prices, typically $1 for a small bag and $2 for a larger one.
The Donkey Sanctuary primarily focuses on animal care and does not have a restaurant or cafe. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture heartwarming moments of hand-feeding the donkeys, close-ups of their gentle faces, and interactions with other animals like peacocks. The golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos and videos to share their experience and promote the sanctuary's mission. Just be mindful of the animals' space and comfort.
There are no specific restrictions on photography, but always be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly in the animals' eyes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks like carrots and apples, or purchase feed bags on-site for a budget-friendly experience. The sanctuary is free to enter, making it an accessible outing. Remember comfortable shoes for little ones, and be sure to use the hand-washing facilities after interacting with the animals. It's a truly rewarding and educational experience for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes it an incredibly affordable yet highly rewarding activity. You can even bring your own fruits like carrots and apples from your hotel or local market to feed the donkeys, further reducing costs. It's a chance to have a memorable experience and support a good cause without breaking the bank.
❤️ Animal Lovers
You'll not only interact with the sweet donkeys but also encounter peacocks and cats, some of which are available for adoption. It's a chance to witness animal rescue efforts firsthand and contribute to a sanctuary that provides a safe and loving environment for its residents.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Sanctuary: Animal Care
When you visit, you'll see firsthand the commitment to these gentle creatures. The volunteers are passionate and knowledgeable, happy to share the stories of the donkeys and the sanctuary's mission. This dedication ensures that each donkey receives the medical attention, food, and companionship they need to thrive.
Your visit directly supports this crucial work. By purchasing feed, making a donation, or simply spreading the word, you contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect and care for Aruba's donkey population. It's an opportunity to make a tangible difference while enjoying a unique and memorable experience.
Interactive Experiences: Feeding and Petting
Beyond feeding, petting the donkeys is another highlight. The animals are accustomed to human interaction and often approach visitors willingly, enjoying a gentle stroke. This close encounter allows for a deeper connection with these remarkable animals and creates lasting memories. Many visitors describe the donkeys as incredibly sweet and friendly, making the experience accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there might be droppings on the ground. Washing your hands afterward is easy with the available facilities. This interactive experience is what makes the Donkey Sanctuary a must-visit for many travelers seeking authentic and meaningful encounters.
Beyond the Donkeys: Other Residents
Adding to the sanctuary's welcoming atmosphere are the resident cats and kittens. For those who love felines, there's even a chance to see kittens available for adoption. This adds another layer of heartwarming appeal to the sanctuary, showcasing their commitment to animal welfare in its entirety.
These additional animals contribute to the overall charm and appeal of the Donkey Sanctuary, making it a well-rounded experience for animal lovers. It’s a place where you can encounter a variety of creatures, all benefiting from the care and dedication of the sanctuary's team.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit