Frontpage English

Welcome! Thank you for dropping by the official website for Donkey Sanctuary Aruba. This website is also available in Dutch, click here for the dutch version.

Founded in 1997 as a non-profit and completely volunteer run organization, our mission is simple. Save the Donkeys! Although not originally native to the small island of Aruba, they have existed here for 500 years having been the primary mode of transportation until cars began to be introduced on the island in increasing numbers. At that point, many Arubans no longer had the need for their formerly beloved donkey, and sadly in the 1970’s, a dangerous and rapidly spreading illness nearly caused their extinction leaving behind a population of only 20 wild donkeys.

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donkey article at the Aruban Donkeys Sanctuary e-shop

As their population slowly began to increase, so increased the human population and with it came more and more vehicles. It became a common occurrence for donkeys to be found injured or killed alongside the roads, creating a hazard for humans and donkeys alike.

click on picture for either the donkey calendar 2013 or the Name the baby contest for Coco's baby

Occasionally there were cases of poor, innocent donkeys being intentionally harmed and mistreated. It’s a terrible fate that no animal should endure.

Thankfully they now have a safe haven where each donkey is given a name and receives food and water, shelter, quality medical care and lots of love. We highly encourage you to plan a visit to the Sanctuary and see for yourself what so many others have discovered, that there’s more to a donkey then what you think you knew.

They are sweet, yet stubborn at times. Many love to be petted and all love to be fed from the safety of our enclosed porch. They especially love apples and carrots, so feel free to bring some along. There is no admission fee, though your generous donations are greatly appreciated and are what continue to allow us the ability to care for our donkey family, which has approximately 90 members at the moment. Our volunteers will be more than happy to show you around and answer your questions.

And if you get there earlier enough, you can even help with the daily chores of feeding and caring for the donkeys, a great and educational experience for children! If you’d rather just observe, then you’re welcome to grab a seat on our covered porch, sit back with some coffee or a cold beverage and snack from our concession stand, or take a look inside our gift shop. Whatever you decide, we look forward to seeing you there!