Photos the Wild Burros in Oatman, Arizona
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to see the Wild Burros in Oatman, Arizona, here are some things to know before you go.
Where are the burros on Route 66 and how do you find them?
The Route 66 burros roam freely in the historic mining town turned tourist stop of Oatman, Arizona, located along the old alignment of U.S. Route 66 in the Black Mountains of Mohave County. You’ll commonly find them walking the streets of the town, in alleyways or wandering into the shops and roadways. They often descend from the surrounding hills into the town area. But their movements vary. Evening or night might bring them away from the roadway.
While these burros are often found around Oatman, there is no guarantee you’ll see them and you can’t always depend on them being there.
Can you feed the burros? What’s allowed and what’s not?
Yes, you can feed the Oatman burros, but with caution and under certain rules:
Many of the town’s shops sell small bags of hay cubes (“burro food”) specifically for feeding the animals. Do not feed them carrots (which have too much sugar for their diet) or junk or people food (like chips or hot dogs). These can harm their health and cause behavioural issues. Feeding while the burros are in the roadway is also discouraged to prevent vehicle-animal conflicts.
To feed the burros, use a flat hand with your fingers together and let the burro gently take the cubes from you, rather than your fingers being near their mouth.
Are the burros safe to interact with? What should I know about behavior and safety?
The Oatman burros are semi-tame in the sense that they tolerate human presence and solicit food, but they are still wild animals and should be treated with respect. Watch carefully for animals in the road and drive through town slowly. Do not block traffic while stopping to photograph or feed them. Feed with care to avoid being bitten.
Where can you park in Oatman?
Street parking is available throughout Oatman. For easy parking, find a parking lot at 20 Co Hwy 10.
What else can you see in Oatman, Arizona?
The burros aren’t the only things to see in Oatman! Stay for an Oatman Ghost Rider Gunfighters shootout show, explore the historic buildings, shop at the punny-named stores, and have lunch at the Oatman Hotel Restaurant & Bar.
Is this a popular Route 66 attraction?
Yes! Many travelers say that seeing the Oatman Burros is one of the highlights of their Route 66 road trip. This stop is one of our picks for the Top 10 Arizona Route 66 Roadside Attractions, 66 Route 66 Attractions Worth Pulling Over For, and 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66.
Where to Stay Near the Oatman Wild Burros
While there is an AirBNB or two in town, you’ll probably want to spend the night in nearby Kingman. Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest on your road trip with a stay at one of these hotels near Oatman, Arizona on Route 66.
The Oatman Rock House
One of the only places you can stay in Historic Oatman, Arizona, this AirBNB is a secluded desert getaway located on Route 66’s most famous western ghost town. The property features one double bed and one bunk bed and is close to all the sites and burrows on Oatman.
El Trovatore Motel
El Trovatore Motel is located in downtown Kingman and offers themed rooms dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, John Wayne, and more. Outside the property boasts many fun murals, including the world’s longest map of Route 66. Look for the famous neon sign!
Ramada by Wyndham Kingman
Ramada by Wyndham Kingman might be a chain hotel, but it embraces the Route 66 spirit with decor and themed murals. The pet-friendly hotel has free WiFi, a gym, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and free parking.
Related Tours
Enhance your visit to Oatman with a tour! Whether you love history, the outdoors, or family-friendly adventures, there are plenty of options for everyone.
Attractions Near The Oatman Burros on Route 66
Gold Mining Ghost Town in Oatman, Arizona
Arizona Sidewinder in Oatman, Arizona
Cool Springs Station in Golden Valley, Arizona
Needles Route 66 Bench in Needles, California
El Garces Harvey House Hotel and Depot in Needles, California
I was so sad that I didn’t see a single burro while I was in town! They must have been hiding that day. I’ll need to go back and try again!