Audio Guide of Donkey Ride

You will find them lined up at Hydra Port, usually from 9:00 AM until sunset, timed with the arrival of the ferries. You do not need advance booking or online tickets; simply head to the dock when you disembark and you will see the muleteers ready to offer the service.

The price usually ranges from €10 to €20 per trip or per person, depending on the distance and the amount of luggage. Payment is made only in cash (euros) directly to the muleteer; be sure to agree on and confirm the final price before getting on to avoid misunderstandings.

The duration depends on your goal: a basic transfer to a hotel in the upper part of town usually takes between 15 and 20 minutes. If you want a scenic sightseeing ride through the cobbled lanes, the experience can last as long as 45 to 60 minutes of total immersion.

Hydra has a legal ban on motor vehicles, which has made donkeys and mules the only means of transporting goods and passengers for centuries. Riding one lets you experience the island’s history and understand how its unique architecture and silence have been preserved.

We recommend going early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the intense midday heat, which is more pleasant for you and more ethical for the animals. The golden-hour light in the harbor also gives you the best travel photos.

Although donkeys help avoid climbing stairs on foot, riding requires a certain amount of balance and physical agility to get on and off the animal. It is not recommended for people with very limited mobility or serious back problems; in those cases, ask about sea transport options (water taxis) to move along the coast.

The donkey stand is in the heart of the harbor, just a few steps from the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Hydra Historical Archives Museum. It is the perfect central point to begin exploring the local food and culture.

Wear long trousers to avoid rubbing against the saddle and make sure to bring water. Also, be a responsible tourist: if you are carrying very heavy luggage, hire an extra animal just for the load, and always check that the animals appear healthy and well cared for before hiring.