Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

Although this review is listed in the 'With the kids' category, we genuinely believe that visiting the Donkey Sanctuary is a real treat for all ages. This non-profit, volunteer run organisation has been taking care of these gentle giants since 1997. Although not originally native to Aruba, donkeys have thrived here for the past 500 years and were the primary mode of transportation on the island until cars finally arrived. Many were abandoned to the elements and their numbers decreased dramatically until this sanctuary was built. Head down to this lovely place with a grocery bag full of apples and baby carrots and you'll make dozens of new friends in no time. You can also buy supplies on the premises and the friendly staff will even give you a knife to cut your vegetables into small portions. You can feed and pet them from behind a raised fence or go directly inside. The gift shop is also quite good and lacks the usual cheap Chinese nicknacks. The sanctuary is scheduled to move to a bigger facility in Bringamosa at the end of the year.