Donkey Mountain Hike in the Alps

Imagine hiking through the French Alps with a gentle donkey as your companion, carrying your bags while the children take turns riding. This is the magic of a donkey trek—a slower pace, a deeper connection with nature, and an unforgettable family adventure.

Our certified Nature and Mountain guides offer donkey hiking experiences in the stunning landscapes around the Écrins National Park. Whether for a half-day, full day, or multi-day adventure, the donkeys become part of the family.

Why hike with donkeys?

• Perfect for families: Children love the donkeys, and the animals carry the weight
• Slower, more mindful pace: Walking with a donkey encourages you to slow down and observe
• Connection with traditional mountain life: Donkeys have served mountain communities for centuries
• Accessible to all ages: Young children can ride when tired

Our Donkey Experiences

Half-Day Nature Outing with Donkeys

A 2.5-hour afternoon outing perfect for first-time donkey handlers. Meet the donkeys, learn to prepare them for the trail, then set off through forest and alpine pastures to a scenic viewpoint.

Highlights:

• Learn to load and lead a donkey
• Walk through varied mountain landscapes
• Snack break at a panoramic spot
• Children under 40kg can take turns riding

Schedule: 2:30 PM departure, return around 5:00 PMLocation: Saint-Firmin-en-ValgaudemarPrice: From £352/person or £59/family (up to 5 people)

Full-Day Donkey Adventure

A full-day journey deeper into the mountains. After morning preparation of the donkeys, you'll follow mountain trails to discover the wild heart of the Valgaudemar—nicknamed the "Petit Himalaya français."

Picnic lunch in nature, wildlife observations, educational activities about the plants and animals you encounter.

Schedule: 9:30 AM to mid-afternoonPrice: From £36/person

3-Day Donkey Trek with Bivouac

The ultimate family adventure: a 3-day trek with your donkey companions, sleeping under the stars or in a tent.

Day 1 – From Mountain to Lake

The itinerary leads from the mountains of Saint-Firmin (Écrins) down to the turquoise waters of Lac du Sautet. The lakeside is perfect for a spring or autumn bivouac, or summer camping. Hotel alternatives are also available.

Day 2 – Up to the Mountain

After preparing the donkeys together, the trail climbs toward Aspres-les-Corps and the Brudour. Along the way, your guide reveals the secrets of the forest—animal tracks, edible plants, signs of wildlife.

The second night is a mountain bivouac. All equipment (sleeping bag, mattress, tent or tarp) is provided by Altimood.

Day 3 – Return Journey

A gentle morning descent back to the starting point, arriving by late morning. Share a final picnic in the picturesque hamlet where the donkeys have their home.

Price: From £176/person (includes guide, donkeys, meals, bivouac equipment)

Effort level

Donkey treks are accessible to all fitness levels. The donkeys carry the heavy loads, and we adjust the pace to the group. Children from age 4 can fully participate. Those under 40kg can take turns riding the donkeys.

Difficulty: 1-2/5 (Accessible)

Booking 2026

How to Book

Donkey experiences run from spring to autumn (April to October).

Contact us to discuss dates and create your perfect donkey adventure:

Email: heyaltimood.com url@nygvzbbq.pbzPhone: +33 7 69 44 78 66

This experience also makes a wonderful gift—ask us about our gift vouchers.

Practical Information

Customer Reviews

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