Explore nature through donkey trekking

 

What is “trekking with donkeys”?

Donkey trekking is not just walking with a donkey, it is adifferent way to travel and an adventure in which you not only discover beautiful scenery and exercise, but in which you learn a lot about donkeys and about yourself, because the animals hold up a kind of mirror to us and give very honest feedback on how we appear and communicate. If we are a bit hesitant, the donkey might just stop or if we are insecure about crossing a stream, the donkey will also become insecure.

If you accept that hiking with a donkey requires work and you are ready to grow as a person, you’ll gain far more than just an animal: a loyal companion who carries your load, walks sure-footedly by your side, and with whom you can build a deep, loving bond.

Donkey treks are an experience for everyone, whether you are a child or an adult, in groups or alone. And this on walks that take us through the romantic nature of Catalonia, through half-forgotten valleys, up to the peaks of the Pyrenees or to the cliffs of the Costa Brava.
Hiking in itself brings relaxation, and with a donkey as a companion it is even easier to forget the worries of everyday life. The journey is the destination… and the donkey trekking is an exciting and unique way to be on the move.

What routes are available for hiking with donkeys?

We offer everything from one-hour donkey rides to week-long excursions, guided or self-guided.

Different comfort options are available depending on whether you are looking for a sporty, adventurous trek or a relaxed walk through nature. If you have an adventurous spirit, set off with a tent and food, say goodbye to civilization for a few days, and roam the countryside with everything you need.

On the other hand, it is possible to move from one accommodation to another. During the day you will still be in isolated nature, and once you arrive at your destination, you will discover the magic of the old villages of the Alt Empordà. If you don’t want to cook, you can also choose a full board tour. On this website you will find some tour ideas, but we are also happy to advise you and make personalised suggestions for your donkey trekking adventure.

What are the requirements for the donkey trail?

Basically, you must be physically fit to be able to complete the planned walks without any problems. It is important to keep in mind that walking with a donkey, you will travel at a different pace – sometimes less is more! Younger children can be carried by the donkey for a while if they are tired. And older children will be more motivated to walk when an animal companion walks with them.

In addition to the physical requirements, a sense of adventure, flexibility, determination and composure are good basic qualities for dealing with donkeys. After all, a lot can happen on a donkey journey. The pack donkey is not a luggage transport machine – if you travel with a donkey, you do not simply have an animal at the other end of the rope that always follows without complaint. As a donkey guide, you also have to be willing to interact with an animal that has its own personality and sometimes different priorities.

Is it possible to go trekking without previous experience with donkeys?

Yes! In our experience, these treks are usually a great success even for beginners. However, if you lack previous experience, we strongly recommend having an instructor accompany you on your first day or starting with a short circular route. This ensures your holiday remains enjoyable for everyone involved.

During this initial walk, you will gain confidence in handling the donkey and learn how to give the right cues so the animal doesn’t stop, block, or constantly try to eat.

Keep in mind that it takes a few days to truly get to know the donkey and connect with them, which means the beginning isn’t always effortless. On the first day you get to know each other, on the second day you build mutual trust, and by the third day, things start to run much smoother.

An introductory circular walk is ideal for this learning phase, after which you can comfortably continue your trek self-guided.

Plan your adventure with burrotrek

Discover peaceful landscapes through a guided or selfeguided donkey walking tour and enjoy a unique hiking experience in nature. Plan your next outdoor adventure with Burrotrek and explore unforgettable trails.