Tajikistan is a small republic in Central Asia, bordering Uzbekistan, Kirghizstan, China and Afghanistan. The 740 mile (1200 km) border with Afghanistan is marked by the river Panj and the Amu Daryo, better known as the Oxus. Most of Tajikistan's land area is mountainous, ranging from the Fann Mountains in the west to the rocky heights of the Pamirs in the eastern region of Badakhshan. The highest mountain is Peak Somoni (Samanid) at 23 400 ft (7495 m).
This mountainous country offers great hunting for the magnificent Marco Polo Argali which have the longest horns of all sheep and beautiful Mid-Asian Ibex.
Marco Polo Argali hunting season starts from September and lasts until February. Best time is late October - beginning of December.
Markhor hunt is organized in October - February, with the best time in November - January.
ROUTE
Day 1
Arrival in Dushanbe. Custom formalities, transfer to Khorog (10-14 hours), stay overnight
Day 2
Transfer from Khorog (6-8 hours) to the hunting camp, accommodation, rest
Day 3-8
6-day hunt for Marco Polo
Day 9
Back to Khorog, stay overnight
Day 10
Back to Dushanbe, stay overnight or flight home
HUNTING
Marco Polo Argali hunting is a classic mountain spot-and-stalk hunt. During the day, the hunter and guides spot the hillsides and sheep feeding areas. Hunting in the Rangkul area is organized at the altitude of 13,100-15,000 feet (4,000-4,500 meters) above sea level. The stalk is completed on foot. You have to be fit for this part of the hunt. Be ready for the long range shooting, up to 450-750 yards (400-700 meters).
Hunting for Markhor is organized at comparatively low altitudes of 4,900-5,250 feet (1,500-1,600 meters). As a rule, Markhors tend to prefer sheer cliffs of sandstone. The hunter has to get at the shooting distance by stalking from below, or staying at the opposite cliff.
ACCOMMODATION
The Marco Polo camps are hunting cabins. They have separate areas for dining, bathing and sleeping. There is an electrical generator.
While hunting for Markhor, you will be accommodated at the guest houses in villages, located in the hunting regions. In rare cases, 1 or 2 overnights in tent camp up in the mountains might be required.
AREA
Marco Polo Argali: Gorno-Badakhsnskaya province, Rangkul camp, 460-560 miles from Dushanbe.
Markhor: Gorno-Badakhsnskaya province and Khatlon region, between the rivers of Panj and Vahsh near the border of Afghanistan.
HUNTING TROPHIES
MARCO POLO ARGALI
MATISONI ARGALI
URIAL AFGHAN
URIAL BUKHARAN
Feral Yak
Himalayan Brown Bear
Mid-Asian Ibex
Markhor Bukharan
COMMON WOLF
TAJIKISTAN
The main Tajikistan attraction is of course its nature. The majestic mountains and multi-hued lakes, inspiring landscapes and holy hot springs can become a part of your experience. There is a lot to see in its cities, too. Tajikistan has many stories to tell by its ancient fortresses, Buddhist temples and amazing mosques.
“Mountains know secrets we need to learn. That it might take time, it might be hard, but if you just hold on long enough, you will find the strength to rise up.” T. Knott
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average size of the Marco Polo argali trophy in Tajikistan?
The average size is 54-56 inches, with the 58-60 inch rams taken each year.
What is the average size of the Mid-Asian Ibex trophy in Tajikistan?
The average size is about 42-46 inches.
Argali and Ibex are hunted from the same camp?
We hunt Argali and Ibex from the same camp, when it is a combo hunt. If it is a pure Ibex hunt, we take you to the Ibex area.
What is mountain sickness?
Those are symptoms that can occur when you get to a higher elevation quickly. Acute mountain sickness is caused by reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. Anyone can develop altitude sickness, no matter how fit, young, or healthy they are. Most people are able to recover from a mild case of acute mountain sickness quickly after returning to lower altitudes.
How to avoid mountain sickness?
We advise you to start taking DIAMOX several days before arrival. You need to consult your doctor beforehand.
