Welfare of Donkeys in Mediterranean Tourism

Donkeys carrying tourists at sites like Santorini in Greece face welfare challenges from overloading, steep terrain, and hot working conditions.

Key Facts

Donkeys at Santorinis caldera steps carry thousands of tourists annually
Greece passed welfare regulations for tourist donkeys following international pressure
Minimum height requirements for riders were introduced to protect smaller donkeys
Shade and water requirements are now legally mandated at Greek tourist sites
Overweight tourists remain a significant welfare challenge

Welfare Considerations

Tourist donkeys on Santorini and similar sites face welfare harms from steep cobbled terrain causing hoof problems, overweight tourists exceeding safe load limits, heat exposure, and continuous work without adequate rest. Before regulatory reforms, documentation showed donkeys with severe spine injuries from overloading. Current regulations improve but do not guarantee welfare as enforcement is difficult. Tourists who ignore weight limits or encourage overloading directly contribute to animal suffering. Consumer choice for welfare-positive alternatives can drive change.

What You Can Do

Respect weight limits at tourist donkey sites and decline rides if you exceed them
Choose cable car alternatives where available at sites like Santorini
Support tourist donkey welfare monitoring programs
Advocate for enforced welfare standards at tourist animal sites globally