Once the backbone of transportation and agriculture in Aruba, donkeys — or burico, as they’re locally known — were nearly forgotten as the island modernized. At the start of the 20th century, over 1,400 donkeys roamed the island, serving farmers, merchants, and families. But as cars replaced hooves, the donkey population declined drastically — and harshly.
By the 1970s, only 20 donkeys remained.
💛 From Neglect to Nurture: The Birth of the Donkey Sanctuary
Recognizing the need for compassion and conservation, Stichting Salba Nos Burico (Save Our Donkeys Foundation) was established in 1997. This effort led to the creation of the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba — a safe haven for injured, abandoned, or displaced donkeys.
In 2016, the sanctuary expanded to a new home in Bringamosa, near Arikok National Park, giving the donkeys a vast 40,000 square meters of space to roam freely. Today, over 130 donkeys call the sanctuary home, and the site welcomes more than 26,000 visitors annually.
🐾 Meet the Herd (and the Woman Who Knows Them All)
At the heart of the sanctuary is Desiree Eldering, the woman who knows every donkey by name. Her journey began over 20 years ago in Curaçao, and now she leads daily care for the sanctuary’s beloved residents. She’s even penned a children’s book, Kosh Kosh the Green Donkey from Aruba, to share their stories with future generations.
Among the sanctuary’s personalities:
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Floppy – the shy introvert
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7UP – the clever mischief-maker who knows how to open gates
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The Golden Oldies – senior donkeys in their 30s, pampered and protected
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The occasional foal – rare but always a joyful addition
👩⚕️ Compassionate Care & Community Support
Dr. Contreras, a dedicated local vet, ensures that every donkey is microchipped and sterilized, preventing overbreeding among a population that’s now genetically fragile. Instead of breeding, the sanctuary focuses on caring for its existing residents — and keeping them healthy, happy, and safe.
The sanctuary thrives thanks to:
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30 volunteers who help with feeding and care
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Generous donors and sponsors featured on the “Wall of Supporters”
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Visitors who adopt donkeys, bring fresh produce, or shop at the on-site gift shop (100% of proceeds go to donkey care)
🥕 Want to Help? Bring Snacks… and Love
Visitors are always welcome — and encouraged to bring carrots, apples, lettuce, or potatoes (the donkeys love them!). Even more than food, the burico appreciate gentle affection and the companionship of curious new friends.
The Aruba Donkey Sanctuary isn’t just a shelter — it’s a living tribute to a creature that once played a central role in Aruba’s development. Thanks to community dedication, these gentle, stubborn souls now enjoy the peaceful life they deserve.
Photo credits : https://www.visitaruba.com/blog/about-aruba/a-haven-for-arubas-donkeys/
