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All Morocco Marrakesh Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge

Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge

This sanctuary is home to donkeys who finally get to rest after a life of toil.

Marrakesh, Morocco

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zamirakristina
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Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Happy heathy Donkies   sarahlouisetyler / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   zamirakristina / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   zamirakristina / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
Enjoying the afternoon sun   sarahlouisetyler / Atlas Obscura User
Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge   bradylane / Atlas Obscura User
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About

Exiting Marrakesh (Marrakech), the view seems to empty out like sand in an hourglass and becomes all sky. The highway to the south runs along a line of futuristic-looking lights and eventually arrives at the Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge.

Terracotta cubist buildings mirror the minimalist logo of Jarjeer. The refuge is comprised of a home, stables, and corrals, as well as courtyards and fountains set in landscaping crisscrossed by footpaths, bees, and butterflies.

The refuge is the creation of Susan Machin and Charles Hantom, who were both lawyers in England before retiring and purchasing the land where the refuge is housed. The idea arose when the two worked with an animal rescue organization and took home a donkey that needed more long-term care. After someone else brought them another donkey, the idea of creating a sanctuary began to take form. The couple brought in dozens of equines, as well as several dogs.

A visit to the sanctuary is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Once animals are brought to the refuge, they stay for the rest of their lives and are never tethered. It's truly a retirement home for donkeys who were working animals most of their lives. They roam free and are fed twice a day on alfalfa and sugar beets.

Some of the animals’ stories are truly horrifying and the marks still show on their bodies. Working donkeys are often abandoned if they become injured in Morocco and many arrive at the sanctuary in poor physical condition. Caleche horses often arrive starved because their owners can’t feed them without substantial business from tourists. However, the center does a great job of helping the animals rebound.

There are many tragedies in these animals’ backstories, but the overall experience of Jarjeer is uplifting. Witnessing the animals being comforted and at peace is an enlightening experience. 

Related Tags

Animals History & Culture Nature

Know Before You Go

The Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge is open 24 hours in case of an animal emergency, but it's a good idea to call ahead if you plan to visit. 

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Added By

zamirakristina

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sarahlouisetyler, bradylane

  • sarahlouisetyler
  • bradylane

Published

November 17, 2020

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Jarjeer Mule And Donkey Refuge
Oumnass, Marrakesh 40000
Marrakesh, 40000
Morocco
31.418919, -8.085234
Visit Website

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