Pairi Daiza: Expansion and Controversy at Europe’s Leading Animal Paradise

BRUGELETTE, 05 March 2026 – Pairi Daiza, the award-winning botanical garden and zoo in Hainaut, continues to dominate the Belgian tourism landscape. As the park enters its 2026 season, it finds itself at the centre of both architectural acclaim for its new ‘Edenya’ greenhouse and a heated political debate regarding the future of cetacean captivity in Wallonia.

Edenya: The World’s Largest Tropical Greenhouse Opens

Pairi Daiza has officially inaugurated “Edenya,” a massive climate-controlled ecosystem that has been branded the largest tropical greenhouse in the world. Spanning several hectares, the facility features a 17-metre waterfall and one of Europe’s most extensive butterfly sanctuaries. The project represents a significant investment in the park’s “World Gardens” concept, allowing visitors to experience a humid, tropical environment housing rare flora and fauna in a setting that mimics their natural habitats.

The greenhouse also includes innovative underwater accommodation, allowing guests to stay in hotel rooms with direct views into aquatic habitats, further cementing the park’s reputation for immersive “resort-style” zoo experiences.

The Dolphin Sanctuary Dispute

While the park celebrates its expansion, it is currently embroiled in a public dispute with the animal rights organisation GAIA. Reports emerged this week suggesting that the Walloon Government might amend legislation to allow the return of cetaceans to the region. GAIA has accused Pairi Daiza of lobbying for a new commercial delphinarium.

However, the Walloon Minister-President, Adrien Dolimont, and Pairi Daiza management have both issued firm denials. Jérémy Lannoy, Chief of Major Projects at Pairi Daiza, clarified that the park has no intention of launching commercial dolphin shows. Instead, the park has discussed the possibility of a “sanctuary” for dolphins currently in captivity across Europe that cannot be released into the wild. “A new delphinarium, no. A dolphin sanctuary, perhaps,” the park stated, emphasizing that captive-born dolphins often lack the skills to survive in the open ocean.

Key Figures and Park Information

Panda Diplomacy and Future Residents

The park remains a critical hub for “Panda Diplomacy.” While three of the pandas born at the park—Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei—are scheduled for eventual return to China, the park continues to be a primary habitat for the species in Europe. Conservationists are also looking toward the “Golden Monkey” as a potential future diplomatic species to join the park’s extensive Chinese Garden, which remains the largest of its kind in Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pairi Daiza building a new dolphin show?

No. Pairi Daiza has officially denied plans for a commercial delphinarium or dolphin shows. The park has indicated that any future project involving cetaceans would focus on a sanctuary for animals that cannot be released into the wild.

What is ‘Edenya’?

Edenya is Pairi Daiza’s newest territory, featuring the world’s largest tropical greenhouse. It includes a 17-metre waterfall, a massive butterfly sanctuary, and tropical animal species in a climate-controlled environment.

How do I get to Pairi Daiza from Brussels?

The park is located in Brugelette. It is accessible by train via the Brugelette station, which is a short walk from the park entrance. By car, it is approximately 60 km southwest of Brussels.

Are the Giant Pandas still at the park?

Yes, Pairi Daiza currently houses Giant Pandas, including the original pair Xing Hui and Hao Hao. While their offspring are designated to return to China under international agreements, the park remains a key site for panda conservation in 2026.