Donkey-care!

For years, donkeys on the island of Santorini carried tourists up steep, sun-drenched cliffs—often in conditions that raised serious concerns about their welfare. Many of these animals were reported to be overworked and struggling under heavy loads on challenging terrain. In response, Greece introduced new regulations limiting how much weight a donkey or mule can carry—no more than 100 kg, or one-fifth of its body weight. Authorities also pushed for better access to shade, water, and improved working conditions. Today, visitors are encouraged to choose alternative ways to reach the top, such as the cable car or walking the steps, reducing the need to rely on animal transport. While these changes mark progress, animal welfare groups continue to stress the importance of proper enforcement to ensure real protection for these animals. A reminder that tourism should never come at the cost of animal well-being. 🐾