Kariba’s proposed move from Belgium to an elephant sanctuary in Portugal is moving back into focus after months of medical setbacks, but preparations still depend on both her health and her comfort with the journey.
Portugal Resident reported on October 26 that Pangea, in the Alentejo region, was preparing to receive the African elephant from a Belgian zoo. The report suggested a possible arrival in November. That remains an expectation, rather than confirmation that transport has been booked or completed.
The sanctuary’s own October 15 update provides important context. Pangea said Kariba’s ear was healing and her other infections had nearly cleared. Veterinarians at Pakawi Park considered her almost ready to travel medically. Her confidence inside a transport crate, however, remained a separate concern.
The planned road journey takes two days. Pangea said caregivers were using food rewards and repeated opportunities to explore the crate, allowing Kariba to progress voluntarily. Its accompanying footage shows her entering for a reward and then backing out. The organisation said it would not rush a move before the risks were acceptable.
A foot abscess had delayed the original transfer. Further infections followed, including an ear infection that caused the loss of part of the ear. Pangea said repeated treatment and disruption appeared to have made unfamiliar experiences more difficult for her.
At the Portuguese sanctuary, Kariba would join Julie, its first resident. Portugal Resident described Julie as Portugal’s last circus elephant and reported that introductions between the two animals would take time. A shared destination does not guarantee an immediate social bond.
Pangea’s aim is lifelong care for elephants leaving captivity. The sanctuary is not a conventional visitor attraction, and its current work includes preparing animals and facilities for transitions that cannot be reduced to a departure date alone.
The distinction between medical readiness and transport readiness is central to this story. A positive health update is encouraging, but it is not evidence that Kariba has already left Belgium. Confirmation of a departure, arrival and any subsequent introduction to Julie must come in later updates.
Sources: Portugal Resident, October 26, 2026; Pangea Trust, October 15, 2026.
