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Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: A Haven for Rescued Donkeys

Visit the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: a loving home for rescued donkeys, offering unique experiences and supporting animal welfare on the island.

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The Donkey Sanctuary Aruba is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, protecting, and providing a loving home for donkeys on the island. Visitors can interact with these gentle animals, learn about their history in Aruba, and support the sanctuary's mission through donations and souvenirs.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
Bringamosa 2-Z, Santa Cruz, AW
Monday
9 am-4 pm
Tuesday
9 am-4 pm
Wednesday
9 am-4 pm
Thursday
9 am-4 pm
Friday
9 am-4 pm
Saturday
9 am-4 pm
Sunday
9 am-4 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Donkey Sanctuary Aruba.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Bring apples and carrots to feed the donkeys, as they especially love these treats.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and potentially help with the morning chores of feeding and caring for the donkeys.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven terrain.
Bring cash for donations and souvenirs, though cards are also accepted.
Be sure not to feed the donkeys until you get behind the fence by the Visitors center, otherwise the donkeys will attack and hurt each other to get the food.

Discover more about Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

Located in Bringamosa, Santa Cruz, the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba offers a heartwarming experience for visitors of all ages. Founded in 1997, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for over 130 rescued donkeys. These animals, once vital to Aruba's transportation, faced near extinction due to disease and neglect after the introduction of cars. Today, the sanctuary is a testament to Aruba's commitment to animal welfare. Visitors can feed and pet the donkeys, many of whom eagerly approach for attention. The sanctuary also features a visitor center, concession stand, and gift shop, with proceeds supporting the donkeys' care. Donations are welcome and are essential to the sanctuary's operation. For a truly unique experience, consider cuddling a donkey for a donation. The sanctuary's mission extends beyond rescue to education, teaching visitors about the donkeys' history and the importance of conservation. The sanctuary operates daily, offering a chance to connect with these gentle creatures and support their well-being.

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    Getting There

    Car

    From the hotel area, take Route 4A and continue for about 14 km. After passing several roundabouts, follow signs for the French Men's Pass. Turn left, then take the first left and the second right. Continue down the dirt road for about 200 meters until you arrive at the sanctuary. Parking is free on-site.

    Public Transport

    From Andicuri Beach, catch a local bus heading to Santa Cruz. Inform the driver of your destination. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. From Santa Cruz, take a taxi to Bringamosa 2-Z, where the sanctuary is located. Taxi fare is around $10-$15. A bus ride from Santa Cruz to Caya takes 6 minutes. Bus fare information can be found on arubus.com.

    Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Aruba. A taxi from the hotel area to the Donkey Sanctuary will take approximately 25 minutes. The fare will vary depending on the starting point; for example, a taxi from Noord to the sanctuary is estimated to cost around 10,906 COP. Taxis can be hired at an hourly rate of US$45.00.

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