Karoo Donkey Sanctuary began with four rescued donkeys and a simple promise: to give animals in need a place of safety, dignity and lifelong care. In 2017, that promise was tested when we saved 236 donkeys, and 36 horses, from a slaughter auction in the Northern Cape. Our donkey herd grew to over 320 practically overnight. Today, we rescue, rehabilitate, protect and advocate for donkeys and equines whose suffering might otherwise go unseen. What began with four donkeys has become a promise to many.

Providing lifelong sanctuary is at the heart of what we do. But protecting animals also means looking beyond those already safe in our care. Our work extends from rescue and rehabilitation to cruelty investigations, advocacy against the commercial donkey-skin trade, education and the conservation of the natural environment upon which all life depends.

Join us at Karoo Donkey Sanctuary in the heart of the Klein Karoo and experience Africa's largest equine sanctuary for yourself. Meet some of our rescued residents, hear their stories, and discover more about the work that goes into providing them with lifelong sanctuary.