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Kenya, the last captive elephant in Argentina, has arrived safely at Elephant Sanctuary Brazil. She will begin a new life after over three decades in a zoo enclosure.
Wednesday afternoon, she stepped out of her travel crate and into a big natural sanctuary in Mato Grosso, Brazil. Her journey was long, traveling 3,600 kilometers across South America, but it was carefully planned.
Kenya was the last African elephant at Ecoparque Mendoza in Argentina.
Since 2017, Kenya has been preparing for this moment through crate training, health checks, and close work with dedicated caregivers.
Only three trusted humans accompanied her on the five-day trip: sanctuary co-founder Scott Blais, veterinarian Trish London, and trainer Marcos Flores. Their goal was to ensure her safety and calm throughout the journey.
Upon arrival, Kenya waited less than 30 minutes before stepping onto the sanctuary land. Her entrance was calm and confident, sanctuary staff said.
Once inside her new habitat, the 44-year-old elephant immediately began dusting herself with sand and accepted a bath with the hose. She also ate well, enjoying hay and fresh fruits. Her energy and curiosity stood out.
Everything we’ve learned about Kenya so far tells us she has an expressive spirit, full of vim and vigor, the team noted.
Kenya also had her first sighting of Pupy, another female African elephant who lives at the sanctuary. The two looked at each other with interest from a distance. Their meeting will come later, after Kenya has had more time to adjust to her new surroundings.
Born in the wild in 1981 and captured as a calf, Kenya lived most of her life at the Mendoza Zoo, which later became Ecoparque Mendoza. For years, advocates pushed for her relocation to a sanctuary.
Her transfer was part of a larger shift in Argentina’s approach to wildlife in captivity. With Kenya’s departure, the country now has no elephants in captivity, a historic first.
In the coming days, Kenya will explore new areas, meet new individuals, and gain the freedom she never had before. Every moment from now on will be part of a journey toward healing, choice, and dignity.
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