The Aruba Donkey Sanctuary, run by the foundation Fundacion Salba Nos Burico, is a small refuge for the island's donkeys, which were once working animals and are now cared for here. It is on the south side of the island near Savaneta, away from the hotel strip, which makes it an easy add-on when you are heading to Baby Beach or the south coast. VisitAruba states there is no admission fee and that donations fund the donkeys' care. Visitors can feed the donkeys from an enclosed porch, and the animals especially like apples and carrots, which you can bring along. You can pet them, though some are friendlier than others, and if you arrive early enough you can help with feeding and daily care. A covered porch with a concession stand offers drinks and snacks, and there is a gift shop whose sales also help the animals. The sanctuary has no listed set hours on the VisitAruba page, so check its contact details before you go. It is a gentle, short visit, usually under an hour, and a good break from the beach or the tour circuit, especially for families with children.
What to expect: a simple, open-air sanctuary with a feeding porch, a handful of enclosures and a lot of donkeys with distinct personalities. The staff and volunteers are friendly, and visitors are asked to follow the feeding rules, so listen to the guidance and avoid feeding the donkeys anything other than the approved produce. Bring small amounts of carrots or apples, or buy feed on site.
Why it matters: the sanctuary is a charity, so a donation is the way to give back. The money pays for food, veterinary care and the upkeep of the enclosures. If you want a more hands-on visit, arrive early and ask about helping with daily chores, which is mentioned on the VisitAruba page.
Good to know: because the page does not list opening hours, call or check the sanctuary's website before you drive out, particularly around holidays. Wear closed shoes, since the ground is dusty, and bring sunscreen and a hat. Combine it with Baby Beach or a stop in the nearby Savaneta area for a relaxed southern loop.
What to expect
The experience
A small open-air sanctuary where you feed and pet rescued donkeys from a covered porch, with a concession stand and gift shop.
Best time
Morning, when the animals are active and volunteers do the daily feeding.
How long
Usually 45 minutes to an hour.
Tips
Bring apples or carrots, wear closed shoes, and contact the sanctuary before visiting since no hours are listed on the tourism page.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and animal lovers who want a free, easy stop on the south side.
- Families
- Excellent: feeding and petting are simple and children usually love it.
- Couples
- A sweet, short stop on a south-coast drive.
- Pair with
- Baby Beach, which is a short drive away.
- Time needed
- Under an hour.
Good questions
Is there an entrance fee?+
No. VisitAruba states there is no admission fee, and donations are welcome to help care for the donkeys.
What can I feed the donkeys?+
They especially like apples and carrots, which you can bring. Follow the staff guidance on feeding.
Where is the sanctuary?+
It is on the south side near Savaneta, away from the main resort areas. A car or taxi is the easiest way to get there.
What are the opening hours?+
The VisitAruba page lists none, so check by phone or on the sanctuary's website before you go.
Can I volunteer?+
Visitors who arrive early may help with feeding and daily care, according to VisitAruba. Ask the staff on arrival.
