Donkeys on Bonaire have lived on the island for centuries and are a unique part of nature and culture. Whether they live in the wild or are cared for in the Donkey Sanctuary, these animals make Bonaire extra special.
Donkeys on Bonaire are one of the island’s easiest animals to recognize. You may see them near the southern salt flats, along quiet kunuku roads, on the way to Sorobon, or up close at Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire near Kralendijk. This guide explains where to see donkeys on Bonaire, how to behave around free-roaming animals, and what to expect if you visit the sanctuary.
Why are there donkeys on Bonaire?
Donkeys were brought to Bonaire centuries ago as working animals. For a long time, they helped move salt, water and goods across the island’s dry, rough terrain. When cars and trucks took over, many donkeys were no longer needed for daily work and started roaming freely.
The donkeys you see today are descendants of those working animals. They are often described as feral rather than truly wild, because they come from domesticated animals and many are used to people. Even so, they remain large animals and should always be treated with space and respect.
How free-roaming donkeys live on Bonaire today
Free-roaming donkeys on Bonaire usually move in small groups. You may see a stallion, several mares and foals together, especially in quieter areas away from traffic. They are often more active in the cooler parts of the day and rest in shade when the sun is strongest.
Their diet fits Bonaire’s dry landscape: grasses, leaves, low shrubs and sometimes bark. Water is important, especially during dry periods. This is one reason why responsible behavior matters: feeding donkeys along the road or encouraging them to approach cars can make them more vulnerable in traffic.
Where can you see donkeys on Bonaire?
You can see donkeys in several parts of Bonaire, but some areas are more reliable than others. Look around the southern salt flats near Pekelmeer, the road toward Sorobon, the open kunuku areas around Rincon and the access roads toward Washington Slagbaai National Park.
Drive slowly, especially around dawn and dusk. Donkeys may stand close to the road or step onto the asphalt without warning. If you plan to explore the quieter parts of the island, a suitable rental car and a few practical Bonaire travel tips can make your day easier.
How to behave around free-roaming donkeys
- Keep a respectful distance and let the animals move away if they want to.
- Do not feed donkeys along the road, because it can draw them into traffic.
- Keep food inside the car and close windows when you are not actively interacting.
- Never block a donkey’s path, especially when foals are nearby.
- Slow down immediately when you see donkeys near the roadside.
Visiting Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire
Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire provides a safe home for more than 800 donkeys that need care, including sick, injured and orphaned animals. The sanctuary has been active since 1993 and welcomes visitors who want to learn more about the island’s donkeys.
You drive slowly through the park in your own car or scooter while curious donkeys come close. It is an easy outing for families, animal lovers and visitors who want a gentle break between beach time and sightseeing. If you are planning a family trip around relaxed activities like this, our family-friendly accommodations on Bonaire are a practical place to start.
Practical information for your visit
- Opening hours: daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Last admission: 3:00 PM
- Location: 77 Kaya IR. Randolph Statius van Eps, Kralendijk
- Good to know: tickets are available at the entrance and support the care of the donkeys
Opening hours and prices can change, so check the sanctuary’s own website before you go.
Why donkeys are part of Bonaire’s identity
Donkeys are part of Bonaire’s working history. Before modern transport, they helped people move heavy loads across a hot, dry island with few easy roads. Today, they are no longer working animals, but they still tell an important story about adaptation, island life and responsible care.
For visitors, seeing donkeys on Bonaire is more than a quick photo stop. It is a reminder that the island’s nature and culture are closely connected. For more local wildlife and nature ideas, browse our Bonaire animals and nature guides.
Frequently asked questions about donkeys on Bonaire
Where can I see donkeys on Bonaire?
You can often see donkeys near the southern salt flats, on the road toward Sorobon, in kunuku areas around Rincon and near the access roads to Washington Slagbaai National Park. For a guaranteed close encounter, visit Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire near Kralendijk.
Are the donkeys on Bonaire wild?
They are better described as feral. They descend from domesticated working animals that now roam freely. Many are used to people, but they should still be treated with care and distance.
Can I feed the donkeys on Bonaire?
Do not feed free-roaming donkeys along the road, because it can encourage dangerous behavior around traffic. At Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire, follow the sanctuary’s instructions and use only approved food.
Is Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire suitable for children?
Yes, many families enjoy the sanctuary because you can drive through at a slow pace and see the donkeys up close. Children should stay supervised, keep calm around the animals and follow the staff’s instructions.
How many donkeys live at Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire?
The sanctuary describes itself as a safe home for more than 800 donkeys. Because numbers can change as animals are rescued and cared for, check the sanctuary’s own updates for the latest information.
Planning to explore donkey country, salt flats and quiet nature roads? Choose a comfortable base that fits your travel plans. Browse Bonaire vacation rentals by Sunwise and plan your stay around the beaches, nature routes and family-friendly outings you want to visit.