Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

Donkeys are not native to Aruba - they were brought there by the Spaniards over 500 years ago when they first settled the island. According to the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary there were over 1,400 donkeys counted on Aruba at the turn of the 20th century. As cars became more commonplace in Aruba many donkeys were set free to fend for themselves on the island. Some weren’t able to survive, others suffered collisions with automobiles, and others became victims of disease. In 1970 there were only 20 donkeys remaining.

The Donkey Sanctuary in Aruba was established to help ensure the survival of these animals that were so important to the early development of the island. The Donkey Sanctuary is located near the Ayo Rock Formation famous for their Indian drawings. It is open from 10am to 3pm on Saturday and Sunday. On Monday through Friday you can visit from 9:30am until 12:30pm.

The Aruba Donkey Sanctuary maintains an excellent web site with great information about Donkeys in Aruba, and the Sanctuary’s work to help preserve these animals. Once you visit you may want to support the Sanctuary, and you can do this on the Donkey Sanctuary web site. You also can purchase great "donkey gear" from their on-line store and even adopt a donkey for a year.