Spain - Share the daily life of an equine sanctuary and learn to interact with horses in a different way. A unique immersion in an equine sanctuary in Andalusia, in the heart of nature. All missions with horses here.
An equine sanctuary focused on listening to the horse
Welcome to Andalusia, in the heart of unspoilt nature, not far from the picturesque town of Ronda. This place is much more than a refuge for horses: it's a true community dedicated to animal welfare and the transmission of a respectful relationship between man and horse.
Association founded in 2016
Here, there are no saddles or bits - the horses live in herds, in vast natural spaces, in permanent boarding. The approach here is resolutely gentle, non-coercive, focused on listening to the horse, observing its body language, and establishing an authentic bond. Founded in 2016 by a passionate rider with over ten years' experience, the sanctuary welcomes volunteers in a caring and formative environment. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a novice, you'll be introduced to equine ethology through methods based on positive reinforcement.
The sanctuary offers three types of ecovolunteer assignments
The equine program
It's designed for individual travelers, small groups of friends and families who want to take care of horses and their environment. You'll be trained alongside our partner to care for the horses: feeding, trimming, and much more. The approach is based on a respectful therapeutic method, centered on the physical and emotional needs of the horses.
The method used by the sanctuary is based on a caring and natural relationship with the animal. The horse's emotions and reactions are taken into account, as well as any past traumas. The aim is to promote gentle learning, and encourage each horse to evolve at its own pace.
On a day-to-day basis, your responsibilities will include :
- Participate in horse care: feeding, behavioral observation, paddock maintenance, etc.
- Learn the basics of non-verbal communication and positive reinforcement
- Attend practical workshops on ethology and animal welfare
The sustainable development program
The sanctuary is also developing a sustainability project and has designed a mission around sustainable development. This program is aimed at individual travelers and small groups of friends or families wishing to help out at the sanctuary by tending the gardens and grounds, or participating in ongoing construction projects. It's a great opportunity to contribute to an ecosystem that respects life in all its forms.
On a daily basis, ecovolunteers help to :
- Creating a permaculture vegetable garden,
- Eco-construction work,
- Reasonable management of water and resources.
Group program
The sanctuary welcomes groups. For groups of 8 or more, you can adapt your program and benefit from preferential rates.
- All year round
- Minimum one week
Equine program
- 1 week €643 per week
- 2 weeks €627 per week
- 3 weeks €609 per week
- 4 weeks €590 per week
- 8 weeks €503 per week
- 12 weeks €426 per week
- 18+ weeks €298 per week
- 50 weeks €256 per week
Sustainable development program
- 1 week €472 per week
- 2 weeks 456 € per week
- 3 weeks €438 per week
- 4 weeks € 420 per week
- 8 weeks €336 per week
- 12+ weeks €256 per week
Groups of 8 to 35 people - €298 per person per week
Included in price
- Hosting
- Food
- Teaching aids
- Certificate of training after completion of your training course.
- Towels and sheets (except beach/pool towels).
- Internet access is limited.
Not included in the program
- Flights, transport, outings, meals and drinks in bars are at your own expense and are not included in the program.
- Travel insurance.
- An airport transfer can be arranged for a local fee.
- A mission for people aged 14 and over, alone or with the family
- An inspiring educational setting, with practical workshops on the human-horse bond
- A sanctuary committed to a global ecological approach
- A small group of no more than 6 volunteers for quality supervision
Easy access from Marbella (train or plane), in the heart of beautiful Andalusia
- Minimum age: 14 (with parental consent)
- No riding experience required
- Recommended level of English: intermediate (B2)
- Physical condition: good general fitness required for outdoor tasks
- Families and groups welcome (age-appropriate activities)
- Accommodation: 20-minute walk from the center, in the small village of Atajate. Shared or individual accommodation, subject to availability.
- Meals: food is provided. You make your own meals, either individually or as a group. Vegetarian and organic products.
- Living environment: simple, close to nature
- Access: the nearest station is Ronda. You can also arrive at Jimera de Libar station. Access by bus from Ronda or Atajate. Nearest airport in Malaga (transfers to be arranged)
- Local language: English mainly, Spanish secondary
You'll have free time each week to explore the region. Discover the white villages, hike through the Andalusian hills, or take advantage of the local markets to immerse yourself in the culture of southern Spain.
About the partner
Time and Space Equine is an equine sanctuary founded in 2016, located in Andalusia. The association works for animal welfare through a gentle, non-coercive ethological approach. It welcomes volunteers from all over the world in a spirit of sharing, respect and autonomy. The aim: to create a space for authentic learning and connection, with horses as well as with oneself and nature.
