Muleteers

A muleteer is a person who drives or manages mules to transport goods, often along mountainous or difficult terrain. Muleteers may work in caravans or for individual merchants, packing cargo on mule saddles and panniers and directing the animals along established routes.

Duties include selecting and grooming mule teams, loading and unloading cargo, securing loads, and maintaining equipment such as pack saddles, harnesses, and halters. They monitor animal health, provide feed and water, and plan routes, rest stops, and safe handling practices for the team. Working with mules requires patience, skill in guiding sure-footed animals, and knowledge of terrain.

Historically, muleteers were essential to commerce and supply in regions where roads and rails were sparse. In Europe and the Mediterranean, they supported long-distance trade across mountains and deserts; in the Iberian Peninsula they were known as muleteers or muleros; in the Andes, equivalent roles are filled by arrieros who manage mule caravans.

In modern times, the profession declined with motor vehicles and rail transport, but muleteering persists in some rural economies, trekking operations, and conservation or agricultural settings. Modern muleteers may emphasize animal welfare and training, and some work with tourists, guiding pack trips or maintaining traditional craft skills.