Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary / McGregor

The Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary offers a unique and heartwarming experience for families. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the city or a meaningful way to teach your kids about compassion and kindness toward animals, this sanctuary is a must-visit destination. The McGregor Donkey Sanctuary is open from Thursday to Sunday, from 10am to 4pm. Entry is free, but donations are encouraged to help support the ongoing care of the donkeys. Your contribution directly helps provide food, medical care, and shelter for the rescued animals.

Here’s what you can expect from a visit to this special place and why it’s worth adding to your family-friendly outing list!

What is the Donkey Sanctuary?

The Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary is a haven for rescued donkeys that have been neglected, abused, or abandoned. The sanctuary provides these gentle creatures with a safe space to live out their days in peace, surrounded by love and care.

The sanctuary was founded in 2007 with the mission to promote the welfare and humane treatment of donkeys through rescue, rehabilitation, and public education. The name Eseltjiesrus translates to “Donkey’s Rest”, which perfectly captures the tranquil atmosphere of the sanctuary.

Why Visit the Sanctuary with Kids?

Visiting the donkey sanctuary is more than just a fun outing — it’s an educational experience that can teach kids important lessons about animal welfare, empathy, and responsible pet ownership.

Here are a few highlights that make it an ideal family-friendly destination:

Meet the Donkeys: The sanctuary is home to several donkeys, each with their own unique story. Visitors can meet the donkeys, learn their names, and hear about their rescue journeys. Your kids will love interacting with these gentle giants and discovering their quirky personalities.
Educational Experience: The sanctuary offers plenty of opportunities to learn about donkeys, including their history, behaviour, and how they’ve been used by humans throughout time. Did you know that donkeys are highly intelligent and social animals with strong emotional bonds? You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for these often-overlooked creatures.
Peaceful Surroundings: The sanctuary is located in the picturesque village of McGregor, offering a peaceful escape from busy city life. Enjoy the fresh country air, wide-open spaces, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Things to Do at the Sanctuary

1. Donkey Walks & Meet-and-Greet

The sanctuary hosts donkey walks, where visitors can take a gentle stroll alongside the donkeys and hear more about their lives. These walks are great for kids and offer a wonderful way to connect with the animals in a natural setting.

You’ll also get to meet the donkeys up close during the meet-and-greet sessions. Be sure to bring your camera to capture some heartwarming moments!

2. Enjoy the Coffee Shop & Gift Shop

No visit is complete without stopping at the Padstal & Coffee Shop, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a light meal while taking in the peaceful surroundings. They serve delicious homemade cakes, sandwiches, and local treats.

The gift shop is filled with charming donkey-themed items, including handmade crafts, books, and clothing. All proceeds from the shop go directly to supporting the sanctuary’s work — so you can shop for a cause!

3. Adopt a Donkey

For those wanting to make a meaningful contribution, the sanctuary offers an adoption program. You can symbolically adopt one of the donkeys and help provide for their care. It’s a great way to teach kids about giving back and supporting animal welfare. You can find out more about their adoption program here: ADOPT A DONKEY