Donkey Hiking
Association
An association to promote the donkey
It’s a story more than 30 years old: 10 donkey lovers gathered around a table to restore this exceptional, nearly forgotten animal to its rightful place in the world of leisure.
A shared passion: the donkey
The donkey, a hiking companion
Once man’s working companion — even a beast of burden — the donkey is now promoted to “hiking companion” status!
These donkey handlers chose to try to make a living from their passion, focusing above all on principles of solidarity, where growth and profit are not the main objectives.
- 60 donkey handlers are FNAR members
- 1,200 donkeys
- 25,000 families have gone hiking with us
- 100% of the budget funded by member contributions
- 1 annual general assembly, hosted each year by a different donkey handler
Deep respect for donkeys and nature
For these men and women, respect for the donkey is essential. Their attachment to their region, love of nature and appreciation of beautiful landscapes are equally important.
The birth of a federation
Based on these values, the "Association of United Donkey Handlers" was founded — which would later become the "National Federation of Donkeys and Hiking" (FNAR).
Quality rural tourism
The federation promotes high-quality tourism and a vibrant, traditional rural economy focused on genuine connections and authentic discoveries.
A federation for donkey handlers
A code of ethics and best practices
FNAR members commit to a quality charter that sets out the ethical standards and best practices of the profession. Any new member — whether an experienced handler, a beginner, or a project leader — is mentored by a sponsor who ensures compliance with the charter. The application is then submitted and validated at the annual general assembly.
A space for sharing and transmission
FNAR is also a platform where professionals exchange knowledge and experiences.
A growing federation
Today, FNAR has over 60 professional donkey handlers and more than 1,200 donkeys — over 2,400 long ears walking the trails of every region in France, and even in Portugal. These handlers have introduced over 25,000 families to donkey trekking!
Membership-based funding
FNAR's budget is funded exclusively by member contributions. The France Donkeys and Mules Association also provides financial support for communication initiatives (Agricultural Fair, brochures, etc.).
Collective and participatory governance
FNAR is run collectively. Decisions are made together during the annual general assembly, held each autumn and hosted by a different handler each year. The oldest members have hosted across all of France!