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One of Greece’s best-known tourist destinations has returned to the center of controversy after reinforcing the rule that prohibits tourists weighing more than 100 kilos from riding donkeys used to transport visitors.
The measure, which has been in force since 2018, was adopted with the aim of protecting animals that work on the island’s steep slopes, especially under high temperatures during the European summer. According to veterinarians and animal protection organizations, excess weight was causing injuries, exhaustion and back problems in donkeys.
Transporting animals is a traditional practice in Santorini, especially on the journey between the port and the highest areas of the city. However, the issue gained international repercussion after the rule was highlighted again by local authorities.
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The restriction divides opinions. Animal protection groups argue that the weight limit is exclusively focused on the well-being of donkeys and the prevention of mistreatment. Critics point out that the rule can cause embarrassment to tourists and raise discussions about fatphobia, as it establishes a fixed limit for visitors.
Activists also argue that the debate goes beyond weight and defend the replacement of transport with alternatives that do not use animals, such as cable cars or adapted vehicles, avoiding any type of suffering.
The case reignites a broader discussion about responsible tourism, animal rights and inclusion, themes that have increasingly gained space in tourist destinations around the world.
