Activists Attacked During Peaceful Protest Against Santorini Donkey Rides
Activists from PETA Germany were threatened, manhandled, and struck while peacefully illustrating an alternative to the exploitation of donkeys and mules used as “tourist taxis” on Santorini.
The group was attacked by donkey handlers on Santorini’s Karavolades Steps on 4 September 2026 as they prepared to highlight the suffering of animals used to transport tourists.
The animal liberation advocates were filming themselves and their surroundings before the action when several men attempted to prevent them from recording. The men destroyed protest signs, insulted the animal defenders and forced them down the steps. As they were already walking down the stairs, surrounded by the men, one activist was pressed against a wall and struck in the face.
PETA Germany intends to file a criminal complaint concerning the attack. Tourists and local residents who witnessed what happened are being asked to contact PETA Germany at [email protected].
A Peaceful Protest for Donkeys
The animal liberation advocates had planned to demonstrate that visitors do not need to use exhausted animals to climb the steps from the port of Firá to the town.
Wearing robotic exoskeletons, they intended to show how modern technology could help humans complete the climb without forcing donkeys and mules to carry them. PETA Germany has offered to help fund the purchase of such technology if the municipality agrees to end the use of animals for tourist rides.
Similar technology has already been trialled in tourism. Visitors to Mount Tai in China, which has more than 7,000 steps, have been able to hire robotic exoskeletons to assist them during the climb.
Donkeys and Mules Are Not Tourist Taxis
On Santorini, donkeys and mules are forced to carry tourists up more than 500 steps to Firá’s old town, despite a cable car having operated nearby for decades.
PETA exposes have documented animals with painful abrasions and wounds caused by poorly fitting or worn saddles and makeshift straps. Some animals have reportedly been left with wounds covered in flies. Donkeys and mules may also be made to wait in the Mediterranean sun without adequate access to water, shade, or protection from the weather.
Santorini Must End Donkey and Mule Rides
Measures introduced by the Greek government to protect the animals are not being adequately monitored or enforced, and reported misconduct is rarely punished. Equines deserve to be treated with respect, not abused for tourist cash. PETA is calling for a complete ban on tourist rides involving donkeys and mules on Santorini.
The approximately 100 donkeys and mules still being used should be retired and transferred to appropriate sanctuaries or other safe, suitable homes.
Modern alternatives already exist. No photograph, view, or holiday experience can justify forcing an animal to carry people day after day. Please join us by calling on the Greek government to end donkey and mule rides on Santorini.
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