Quick Details
The Azores is a magical place, boasting some of the most scenic views and far-off islands on planet Earth. What better way to explore this idyllic spot than authentically, alongside big-eared donkey friends? Over 2 hours, journey through Caloura, a parish located in the municipality of Lagoa on São Miguel, joined by Margarita, proud mother, and her curious 2-year-old daughter, Pina. Start with a one-hour walk to the fishing port, discussing flora, fauna, history and all things donkeys along the way, then visit the Cultural Center for an intimate collection from Portuguese artists. Ages 13+, with a reduced rate for children 2–12. Available in Portuguese and English.
Adult
Ages 13 & Older
€ 68
Child
Ages 02 to 12
€ 32
Young Child
Under 02
Enjoy an Happy Rescued Donkeys Hiking Tour!
The Azores is a magical place, boasting some of the most scenic views and far-off islands on planet Earth. What better way to explore this idyllic spot than authentically, alongside big-eared donkey friends? At Donkeys and Friends, responsible tourism helps visitors engage more deeply with the Azores, sharing the community through the eyes of locals, in the most traditional of fashions. The mission is to help and protect donkeys in need of rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming. Join a 2-hour tour through Caloura, a parish located in the municipality of Lagoa on São Miguel. Along the way, Margarita, proud mother, and her second companion, Pina, a curious 2-year-old female donkey, will join in. Start with a one-hour walk to the fishing port, discussing flora, fauna, history, and all things donkeys along the way, then make your way to the Cultural Center, where you’ll have the opportunity to soak in an incredible collection from Portuguese artists at an intimate art museum.
What is included
- Arrival and welcome
- Hiking with the donkeys – one hour walk to the fishing port, discussing flora, fauna, history, and all things donkeys along the way
- Visit the Cultural Center
What is not included
- Transportation to the farm
Itinerary
- Welcome – Arrival at the meeting point in Caloura
- Meet the Donkeys – Introductions to Margarida and Pina
- Coastal Walk – A one-hour hike to the fishing port, exploring flora, fauna and local history
- Cultural Center Visit – An intimate art museum with a collection from Portuguese artists
Highlights
A genuine mother-and-daughter donkey duo. Walking alongside Margarida and her young daughter Pina offers a heartwarming, personal connection unique to this route.
Real Caloura charm. Past guests describe this quaint coastal town, its fishing port and even a fruit-picking stop with the team as a calm, beautiful highlight of their São Miguel trip.
Art and animals in one afternoon. Ending at the Cultural Center’s intimate collection of Portuguese artists adds genuine cultural depth beyond the donkey walk itself.
A host who adapts with heart. Past guests describe Bethany adjusting routes around construction or storms while still delivering a full, memorable experience — even arranging surprise visits with piglets or bunnies.
Meeting point
- After booking we will send all the details of the farm, location (meeting point) and contact.
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How is this different from the Água de Alto donkey walk?
This experience takes place in Caloura, a different parish on São Miguel, with a different route ending at the Cultural Center’s art museum instead of a café.Which donkeys will I meet?
Margarida and her curious young daughter Pina, plus other rescued donkeys along the way.What happens if the weather or route changes?
Your host will adjust the plan as needed — for example due to storms or construction — while still delivering the full experience, sometimes with added surprises like meeting other farm animals.Is this suitable for children?
Yes, this is a family-friendly experience — children aged 2–12 have a reduced rate.Is transportation included?
Transportation is not included, but private transfer can be arranged on request.What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is available in Portuguese and English.What is the minimum and maximum group size?
A minimum party of 2 is required to book. Groups of up to 8 are welcome.Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for our policy.
Google Map
I can’t recommend this experience enough!! It’s rare you meet someone so knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, and so kind and down to earth at the same time! Bethany is the definition of someone doing gods work and she truly makes you feel so welcome! The donkeys themselves are, simply put, so much fun to be around! They make you feel like a little kid with the amount of fun they bring out of you! This was definitely one of the most memorable and unique experiences we had on our whole trip, and we would do it again in a heartbeat!! 10/10
– June 15, 2026 – Verified booking
Bethany was truly an amazing hostess and gave us a wonderful morning “walk with the donkeys”. Her passion for the animals, her knowledge about the history of the area and her connection to the community was truly inspiring. I am always so grateful to meet people like Bethany who dedicate theirs lives to the care and welfare of animals, especially donkeys, who have endured abuse, neglect and cruelty. If you are an animal lover and want to connect with a beautiful Azorean village, please consider spending a morning with Bethany and her sweet, affectionate and beautiful donkeys. It is a worthwhile experience and an incredibly meaningful cause. Thank you Bethany for a wonderful morning! We will definitely be back❤️🫏😊
– June 06, 2026 – Verified booking
After living here for over two years, I was excited to discover something so unique and booked it right away, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had on the island. From the very start at the meeting point, Bethany made us feel incredibly welcome, and the experience unfolded naturally from there. It was truly eye-opening to learn about agricultural life in the Azores, while also gaining a deeper appreciation for these amazing animals. We heard the donkeys’ individual stories, learned about their pasts and daily care, and even got to enjoy some funny moments thanks to their mischievous personalities. Overall, it was a perfect mix of fun, learning, and emotional connection. I would absolutely come back again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for something special.
– April 03, 2026 – Verified booking
Exceptional adventure with 2 gentle rescued donkeys Margarida and Pina Colada. Bethany told us so much about her personal story against the backdrop of Caloura. Our daughters loved walking with the donkeys and had a blast picking fruit from the farm with Luis. They had a great time trying to find the bunnies in the garden. It was such a calm and beautiful experience in this quaint coastal town. Great way to end our trip in Sao Miguel!
– June 06, 2025 – Verified booking
We loved this experience! Made my birthday in Sao Miguel extra special. Bethany clearly is a very intelligent women that has a passion for rescuing and caring for these sweet donkeys. The walk and tour of the property was very informative and interesting. The donkeys were sweet and loved being out in a walk around the neighborhood. There was some construction on the property that caused a change in the usual route they take— but Bethany made sure to get the full experience in by adding a little meet and greet with some cute piggies too! The property itself is amazing too. Thank you!
– June 26, 2025 – Verified booking
Had a wonderful time with Bethany, Luis and all of our new donkey friends!! We had a change in course due to a storm the night before but Bethany was quick to change plans and make us aware. We had a wonderful time meeting 4 of their rescue donkeys on a lovely walk through town, then meeting 3 more friends and a mule at the farm. Loved hearing all of the stories of humans and animals alike. Would fully recommend for a couple or small group of friends!
– August 07, 2025 – Verified bookingShare your experience
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