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Antigua's Donkey Sanctuary: A Haven for Rescued Donkeys

Visit Antigua's Donkey Sanctuary: a heartwarming experience interacting with rescued donkeys in a beautiful, accessible sanctuary. Support animal welfare!

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Nestled near Bethesda, Antigua's Donkey Sanctuary provides a loving home for over 150 rescued donkeys. Operated by the Antigua & Barbuda Humane Society, the sanctuary welcomes visitors to interact with these gentle animals, offering a unique and heartwarming experience.

A brief summary to Antigua's Donkey Sanctuary Humane Society

  • Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • The sanctuary is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 3 pm.
  • Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support the care of the donkeys.
  • Bring a brush to groom the donkeys – they love the attention !
  • Consider adopting a donkey to help with the sanctuary's running costs.
  • The final stretch of road to the sanctuary is unpaved; drive carefully.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From English Harbour, a taxi to the Donkey Sanctuary is a direct route. Taxis are readily available, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey; expect to pay between $24 to $31 USD. The taxi will drop you directly at the sanctuary entrance.

  • Driving

    From St. John's, take the Sir George Walter Highway towards the east of the island. Continue onto the main road towards Bethesda. The sanctuary is located off an unnamed road near Bethesda; look for signs. Be aware that the final stretch is a gravel/dirt path. Parking is available at the sanctuary. An Antiguan driving license is required, obtainable from rental agencies for around $12 USD.

  • Public Transport

    From St. John's, take a bus towards Bethesda from the East Bus Station. The bus fare is a few ECD. From Bethesda, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to the sanctuary. Note that bus schedules can be unpredictable.

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Discover more about Antigua's Donkey Sanctuary Humane Society

Antigua's Donkey Sanctuary, run by the Antigua & Barbuda Humane Society, offers a unique and heartwarming experience for visitors of all ages. The sanctuary is home to over 150 donkeys, providing a safe and caring environment for these animals, many of whom have been rescued from injury, neglect, or abandonment. Visitors can interact with the donkeys, learn about their history and significance in Antigua, and even help with grooming. The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience. Donations and merchandise sales support the Humane Society's efforts to provide food, shelter, and veterinary care for the donkeys. The history of donkeys in Antigua dates back to the 1630s when they were brought to the island by English settlers. These working animals played a vital role in transporting goods on farms and to markets. However, with the decline of the sugar industry and the rise of modern transportation, the need for donkeys diminished, and many were left to roam freely. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for these animals, ensuring their well-being and preserving their legacy.

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