A pair of giant pandas donated as a gift to Taiwan by the Chinese mainland will be heading to their new home on Tuesday as a symbol of "peace, unity and friendship".

Mainland panda experts and vets say the animals are ready for their trip after completing a comprehensive health check.

"I feel a little sad that they are leaving. But I'm proud for them and happy to see that they will bring joy and delight to the people of Taiwan."

The pair are named Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan, which when linked together means reunion in Chinese. To help them settle down in their new home, zoo keepers from Taiwan have been in the mainland to learn the necessary techniques.

Wang Jinzhi is one of them.

"At the beginning, they didn't recognize our voice. But after a period of time, they are already familiar with our voice and scent."

To ease their adjustment, the two pandas will be accompanied by a mainland veterinarian and a panda keeper, who will bring along a week's supply of the pair's favorite foods.