From Budva: Tour of Donkey Farm

From Budva: Tour of Donkey Farm

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction

If you’re looking for a mix of nature, tradition, and something a little different during your Montenegro trip, this Donkey Farm tour offers a compelling experience. Set just 20 km from Podgorica, it’s a chance to get up close with the country’s first and only donkey sanctuary, while soaking in some of the region’s most scenic views.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to interact directly with gentle donkeys—feeding, brushing, and even playing with them. Second, you’ll learn about the important role donkeys played in Montenegrin history and how this farm is working to prevent their extinction. Lastly, it’s a chance to explore traditional farming tools and learn about donkey milk’s health benefits and skincare applications.

A potential consideration? The tour involves a fair bit of travel, with 1.5 hours on the bus, so those sensitive to long rides might want to plan accordingly. But overall, this experience is perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone interested in supporting conservation efforts while enjoying stunning panoramic views.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience of interacting with friendly donkeys and learning about their cultural significance in Montenegro.
• Educational visit that emphasizes preservation and the farm’s mission to prevent donkey extinction.
• Beautiful scenery from the farm surroundings and a visit to Skadar Lake National Park.
• Supportive atmosphere with activities suited for children, including therapeutic programs.
• Value-focused approach where feeding donkeys costs in fruits/vegetables rather than an entrance fee.
• Unique opportunity to volunteer and participate in traditional farm life.
• Local insights on donkey milk benefits and traditional livelihoods.
• Convenient transportation with hotel pickups from three locations.

What to Expect from the Donkey Farm Tour

This 7-hour journey from Budva begins with your pickup from one of three hotel options: Hotel Tre Canne, Hotel Splendid, or Mediteran. From there, the trip involves about 1.5 hours on a coach to the farm, located in the charming village of Martinii. The drive offers a chance to relax and take in some lovely Montenegrin scenery en route.

The Donkey Farm Experience (Approximately 3.5 hours)

Once you arrive at the farm, you’ll immediately notice the peaceful rural setting surrounded by rolling hills and panoramic views. The farm’s primary goal is to protect and preserve donkeys, which historically played an essential role in rural Montenegrin life. As the only donkey farm in Montenegro, it’s a rare opportunity to see these animals in a setting that combines sanctuary, education, and cultural preservation.

Interaction with Donkeys: Visitors are encouraged to get involved by feeding the donkeys with supplied fruits and vegetables — a real highlight for children and animal lovers alike. You’ll also have the chance to brush and play with the donkeys, seeing firsthand how gentle and friendly they can be. The farm staff, including guides, are generally very knowledgeable and often share insights into donkey behavior, diet, and breeding practices. Some reviews mention the staff’s passion and willingness to answer curious questions.

Educational Component: A visit to the Donkey Museum reveals the farm’s contributions to protecting these animals from extinction. You’ll learn about their importance in Montenegrin tradition, their diet, and their role in rural life. The farm isn’t just about viewing animals; it actively educates visitors on conservation efforts and the cultural value of donkeys, which were once a household staple across villages.

Therapeutic Programs: The farm features a special program for children with autism, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis, providing a serene environment for therapeutic interaction. Visitors have noted that these programs bring a calming effect and genuine joy, which adds an extra layer of meaning to the visit.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring the Surroundings & Additional Attractions

After your donkey encounter, there’s time to explore the farm’s natural surroundings. You might wander through pastures, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views, which are often praised for their tranquility. The farm also showcases traditional farming tools, offering a glimpse into old Montenegrin rural life, making this experience both educational and visually appealing.

Support and Volunteering: Unlike many tours, you’ll find that this farm invites volunteers, allowing visitors to assist with farm chores and help sustain the effort to save donkeys. This hands-on involvement adds a sense of contribution and genuine connection.

Scenic Stop at Skadar Lake National Park

On your way back, the tour makes a brief stop at Skadar Lake National Park. This 20-minute break offers a chance for photos, a quick sightseeing stroll, and to appreciate the area’s natural beauty. Many reviews highlight this as a lovely added touch, giving you a taste of Montenegro’s diverse landscapes.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

Following the scenic stop, the coach heads back to your original hotel locations—Mediteran, Hotel Splendid, or Hotel Tre Canne—completing a full day of discovery and delight.

The Value of the Tour

At $152 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded mix of activity, education, and scenic relaxation. The price covers transportation, the farm visit, and activities like feeding and grooming donkeys, plus a visit to the Donkey Museum. Instead of a traditional entrance fee, visitors are encouraged to purchase fruits or vegetables—making the experience flexible and cost-effective.

What truly stands out is the authenticity and support for conservation. Unlike generic zoo visits, this farm emphasizes meaningful engagement, with the chance to learn about endangered species and potentially volunteer. The inclusion of a therapeutic program for children with special needs adds a compassionate dimension that many travelers find meaningful.

The Experience in Detail

Transportation & Duration

The tour’s overall length is about 7 hours, including pickup, travel, and sightseeing stops. The 1.5-hour bus ride from Budva is comfortable, with scenic views often appreciated by travelers. Traveling in a group with other visitors usually results in a lively, friendly atmosphere, and the guides are generally praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.

The Farm Itself

The farm is a peaceful, well-maintained space that combines rustic charm with informative displays. The donkeys are well cared for, friendly, and accustomed to visitors, which makes interactions enjoyable. The farm staff often share anecdotes about traditional donkey use, making the experience both educational and personal.

Tour Highlights & Authentic Experiences

Feeding the donkeys, brushing them, and watching them interact creates a real connection with the animals. The visit to the Donkey Museum transforms a simple animal encounter into a cultural lesson, emphasizing how donkeys shaped rural Montenegro.

The panoramic views from the farm and the quick stop at Skadar Lake allow travelers to appreciate Montenegro’s natural beauty, making this tour not just about the farm but also about immersing in the landscape.

Support and Contribution

Many reviews mention the sense of purpose provided by this tour. Visitors feel they are contributing directly to donkey conservation by purchasing food and participating in farm activities. The opportunity for volunteers and participation in special events like the Traditional Donkey Ball further enriches the experience.

Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the farm and pastures.
• Bring a small amount of cash or be prepared to purchase fruits/vegetables for feeding donkeys.
• Pack your camera or smartphone—you’ll want to capture the lovely views and adorable animals.
• If visiting during warmer months, bring sun protection and water.
• Be mindful of the 1.5-hour coach ride; a neck pillow or a light snack might make it even more comfortable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits families, animal lovers, and those interested in cultural preservation. It’s ideal for travelers wanting an authentic experience that goes beyond sightseeing, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities and learning about rural traditions. The inclusion of therapeutic programs makes it particularly good for visitors traveling with children or individuals seeking a calming, meaningful activity.

If you’re looking for a unique, eco-conscious excursion that combines wildlife, scenery, and cultural insight, this tour delivers in all these aspects. It offers excellent value for money when you consider the educational and conservation components, as well as the chance to connect with Montenegrin rural life.

The Sum Up

The From Budva: Tour of Donkey Farm is a genuinely rewarding experience that combines scenery, animal interaction, and cultural education in a relaxed setting. It’s a chance to see Montenegro from a different perspective—one that emphasizes preservation, tradition, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking a meaningful activity, or simply curious about donkeys’ role in Montenegrin history, this tour offers a mixture of fun, learning, and scenic views that will leave a lasting impression. The farm’s commitment to conservation and community involvement distinguishes it from more typical excursions, making it an experience well worth considering.

All in all, this tour offers a memorable, authentic slice of Montenegro that balances value with impactful storytelling—ideal for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing checkmark.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transfer from three hotel pickup points and return, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is the drive to the farm?
The bus ride from Budva to the farm takes about 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable journey with scenic views.

Can I feed the donkeys?
Absolutely. Instead of paying a traditional entrance fee, visitors are encouraged to purchase fruits or vegetables to feed the donkeys, which makes the experience more interactive.

Are there activities suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate in feeding, brushing, and playing with the donkeys. The farm also offers a special therapeutic program for children with disabilities.

What is the visit to Skadar Lake like?
It’s a brief 20-minute stop for photos, sightseeing, and enjoying the natural beauty of Montenegro’s renowned national park area.

How long is the whole tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, including travel, farm activities, and sightseeing breaks.

What’s the cost of the tour?
Pricing is $152 per person, which covers transportation, the farm visit, and activities. The cost of feeding donkeys is paid in food, not as an additional fee.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Though not explicitly stated, the farm’s outdoor, pastoral setting suggests some walking is involved. It’s best to check with the provider if accessibility is a concern.

This donkey farm tour in Montenegro offers a fantastic blend of scenery, culture, and conservation. It’s ideal for those wanting an immersive experience that’s both fun and meaningful.

You can check if your dates are available here: