If you’re searching for a family-friendly animal experience in South Australia, Donkey Discovery in Hahndorf is an absolute standout for kids and adults alike. I swear, these are the happiest Donkey in the world. We visited as a multi-generational family, kids, parents, Grandma and Grandpa, and it was one of the best hands on animal experiences we’ve ever done.
Sessions run in small, intimate groups, creating a calm, unhurried environment to really enjoy these beautiful animals. In the two-hour Donkey Discovery experience, you’re immersed in a herd of loving donkeys, with an experience designed to create meaningful connections and provide moments you’ll treasure long after you leave. This would make an exceptional and special gift.
Unlike some animal encounters we have participated in where interaction is limited, this is a hands-on experience where the donkeys genuinely enjoy human company. You are encouraged to pat, brush and cuddle the donkeys (yep, like actual big around the neck hugs….just try and pry me off) all while learning about their care and wellbeing. Of course there are some rules like being mindful not to walk directly behind the animals, and like any animal encounter, kids need to be supervised and capable of maintaining a certain level of composure, so as not to startle them with running or quick/loud unexpected movements.
Animal welfare is at the heart of everything they do here, and it shows, these are deeply loved, well-cared-for, HAPPY donkeys who are relaxed, curious and comfortable around families. Hearing how Donkey Discovery has evolved, and learning about each donkey’s personality, adds a beautiful educational layer to the experience; and man do they ever have their own hilarious individual personalities. The kids loved hearing about these and witnessing it. They left feeling like they really knew the animals and had connected with them, it’s very special.
Some other highlights for all of us were walking with the donkeys, watching them play and interact with each other and also the opportunity to snap the cutest photos of them wearing headbands (yes, they genuinely seemed to love it!) Then there was Sunny, a three-week-old baby donkey, who completely stole our hearts. Fluffy, fuzzy and impossibly cute, Sunny was a huge hit and made this Adelaide Hills animal experience feel even more unforgettable.
The two-hour session finishes with a delicious morning or afternoon tea, perfect for families. Expect warm scones, tea and coffee, and incredible homemade biscuits (a mix of ANZAC and Turkish apricot flavours) fittingly named Gallipoli biscuits.
The cost is: Adults $110, Kids (2–14 years) $55 and private family sessions and special event appearances can be arranged and are charged accordingly, on application and subject to availability. An investment well worth every cent.
To book this epic animal experience in South Australia, visit www.donkeydiscovery.com and don’t forget to wear enclosed footwear for walking alongside the donkeys
Email: donkeydiscovery@gmail.com
Mobile (text preferred due to nature of work): 0411 755 873
This content was created in partnership with Donkey Discovery
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