Donkeysanctuary Bonaire

What we do

The primary objective of Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire is to offer a sheltered, protected life to all the donkeys of Bonaire. Our information about the lives and experiences of donkeys is also raising awareness amongst the local community, schools and tourists.

Who we are

In 1993 Dutch Nationals, Marina Melis and her husband Ed Koopman, established a donkey sanctuary on Bonaire for sick, wounded and orphaned donkeys: Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire.

Thanks to all our supporters, donators and sponsors which have supported us. Read here how you can support us. Here you can read more about our people and sponsors.

Visit us

You are very welcome to visit Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire. We would be happy to welcome you in our little shop and tell you about the work that we do. Here you can also buy nice souvenirs of which all profits of course benefit the donkeys.

Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire is open for visitors daily from 10.00 until 17.00 hours. Entrance is possible until 16.00 hours. Your tour can be done by car, scooter of bike. Of course you can also make a walk through the park. Quads are not allowed.

Next you can make a tour with your own car amongst the hundreds of donkeys in our big park. The animals will gladly come over to meet you and to put their snouts through the car windows, hoping you brought them something nice to eat. If wanted you can buy carrots from us to feed to the donkeys. If you do so, you will definitely make many new friends in a minute!

Testimonials

This place is well worth visiting and contributing to.
I have been so impressed over the years how wonderful Marina is to take care of all these animals. This is one of the reasons I love to travel to Bonaire. I know there are kind people watching out for the animal welfare on this island, unlike other places I have traveled. I get sad on vacation when I see the suffering of unattended animals and feel helpless to change the situation.

heidilotus

Very fun way to spend your morning or afternoon
This is so fun! This non-profit sanctuary has around 600 donkeys, from newborn fouls to the elderly (they have a few over 40 years old). You stop at a little gift shop and get a small introduction to the donkeys and the sanctuary, then you drive through. The donkeys are waiting for you when you drive in and come right..

Katie M

A Fun Attraction to Visit
My wife & I participate in Animal Rescue & Outreach at home so when she heard about Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire, she decided we would visit. The Docent who introduced us to the facility was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Carrots can be purchased on site (I'd recommend bringing a knife or some other cutting implement to make your carrots last longer...

FireDiver443