Two great hunts in Tajikistan: markhor and urial

This is a very unusual and exciting hunt. It is community based and promotes conservation and sustainable development.

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Good hunting experience

My friend, a German architect, and I, a farmer from the Black Forest in Southwest Germany went on this Ibex-hunting expedition to the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan in March 2015. Quality and comfort of lodging arrangements were quite satisfying and presumably would match the expectations of the majority of foreign hunters who come to such a remote place in search for adventure. All services provided by the site manager’s staff reflected an extremely “authentic” hospitality and the desire of everybody to do his very best. The hunting guides were extremely motivated to lead a successful hunt, they were also perceptive to adjust their working speed at any time to the limits of our physical conditions. Those Kyrgyz and Pamiri guides/hunters have outstanding knowledge about the distribution and localisation of wildlife resources in the hunting area. Their extraordinary competence for targeting potential males to extract was beyond any expectation. In one week on top of the world we both managed to harvest an ibex without stress and hurry. Apart of the numerous ibex we saw a lot of argalis, wolves, eagles etc. Overall it was an exciting challenge and a unique experience to hunt in that remote and unspoiled place. I hope that it will remain for long time as it is ...

I was overwhelmed by the fact that after this strenuous climb and the last days I could have the chance to kill this amazing Ibex. It was incomprehensible, I can hardly believe it and i´m really gratefull about everything.

the heartwarming people, the landscape, the hunting days and the night sky

sometimes the food

Tajikistan 2x2 Ibex Hunt

This remote area is part of a snow leopard conservancy. Their conservation model that they use to protect the wildlife, not using the wild game as a food source like many other countries was amazing. The hospitality, work ethic, team work all exceptional. It's a tough hunt - a day to hike into base camp but I killed an exceptional quality ibex on my first day in route to the 2nd camp. I cant say enough great things about the people, they work very hard to make sure you're happy. After the hunt they took us to the hot springs to relax. I plan on returning to Tajikistan to hunt with this outfitter again.

Unfortunately my friend lost our bags flying with Turkish Air. It's important to keep a full set of clothing in your carry bag. It's very tough to replace your gear in that part of the world. i'm very lucky the temperatures weren't that bad, but my friend also killed his ibex on the very first day.

2018 Ibex hunt Pamir Mountains

This hunt was as challenging as any hunt I have been on. Our guides worked extremely hard for us and we're very patient with me to help me be successful.

The thin air made it very difficult to climb but I just had to go at my pace.

Abundant game, challenging hunt, all at a very reasonable price.

Game was plentiful, guides were focused on clients needs and took into account hunters shortcomings. Very genuine,very friendly, and very focused on your success.. H&CT has been very effective at bringing ibex, markhor, and Marco Polo back to sustainable numbers. From the time we landed in Dushanbe to the time when we left... we felt at all times very safe and very welcome. Entry and exiting of country was extremely well organized and very efficient. Drivers were very good and vehicles had seat belts and good tires. People were very kind, helpful, and treated my wife and I like royalty.

Fantastic Markhor

Great help from everybody. Very warm welcome et fantastic seeneries. THe mountain range is impressive especially with the wolves howling in the background. Many trophy animals. Get ready for long distance shooting.

Accomodations a bit rough when camping at the top of the mountain.

Tajikistan Ibex...Amazing Adventure

Coming to Central Asia was a new experience for me. The crew at H&CAT worked tirelessly to ensure our comfort and safety. The unique villages, strenuous hunting and beautiful trophies made for a trip of a lifetime. It was definitely the most difficult yet most rewarding hunt of my life! I highly recommend this hunt to anyone looking for a new challenge!

Tajikistan ibex: Adventure of a lifetime

In September 2018 I hunted ibex in the Parcham Conservancy of Tajikistan through H&CAT. This hunt is not for everyone. But if you are in good shape, love the mountains, and want to truly experience the culture and lifestyle of central Asia, you will find it to be the experience of a lifetime. I will never forget the kind, generous people, the amazing wildlife, and the stunning beauty of the high Pamirs. I have a fair amount of mountain-hunting experience in North America and elsewhere, and this was by far the most physically difficult hunt I have done. My hunting partner and I were both successful on ibex, taking them at an elevation of more than 16,000 feet after several days of tough climbing and hiking. Ibex are magnificent game animals. Get in good hiking/climbing shape. Prepare for long shots. The time of year you go makes a big difference--early in the season it is much more difficult. We were there at the end of September; it was still warm and there was no snow, and the ibex were very high. Once the snow flies, ibex will move lower, and you won’t have to climb as far. The conservancy guides in Parcham were outstanding. They know these mountains intimately, but just as important, they understand visiting hunters. They have an excellent feel for the pace at which you can hike, and will adjust and care for you accordingly. We stayed in a home in the village, and also spent several nights camped out high on the mountain in a small tent. Even in the village, do not expect indoor plumbing, a great deal of privacy, or other comforts you might be used to. Do, however, expect the kindest, most generous people you have ever met to open their homes to you, share with you what they have, and be your hosts and your friends. The people of Tajikistan are welcoming to hunters and to visitors in general. They take pride in their country and their culture. Everyone we met, in the airport, in the villages, and in the city of Dushanbe, made us feel safe and welcome. Be prepared for a very long, rough drive from Dushanbe to the conservancy and back on the infamous Pamir Highway—an adventure in itself. By participating in this hunt, you will be supporting one of the finest hunter-funded conservation projects in the world. H&CAT’s work in setting up and supporting local conservancies has resulted in healthy and thriving populations of ibex, snow leopards, and other species. The money you pay goes directly to the local conservancy where you hunt—not to an outfitter or middleman--providing direct financial support to the local villages, whose inhabitants are now the greatest champions and protectors of Tajikistan’s mountain wildlife.

Excellent hunting experience

Ibex Hunt 2019

Honestly, I don’t have any complaints. I was hoping for a great mountain hunt and that is exactly what I got. We saw plenty of ibex covered a lot of ground and I was able to shoot an exceptionally good ibex. I would definitely recommend this hunt to anybody who is looking for a great mountain adventure. Everything from the planning of the hunt to the actual hunt and all the paperwork involved in getting my trophy back into United States went flawlessly. The camp staff, guides and interpreter were all extremely friendly, courteous and kind. Overall just a wonderful experience.

From what I understand, this year there was an exceptional amount of snow in the mountains. I would have liked to experience this hunt without as much snow, LOL, at times the snow was anywhere from 12” to 24” deep which made the hiking difficult at times.

GREAT HUNT!

VERY FRIENDLY ! THE HUNT IS WHAT I EXPECTED. VERY HARD, MANY MILES OF HIKING. A LOT OF GAME

Ibex Dec. 2019

If you want to be proud of yourself as a hunter this hunt epitomizes what is good and right about big game hunting. On this trip you get to see where your money goes. You will be confident that you are investing into the conservation of wildlife and you will know you are helping a community that earns and deserves your support. You will earn your trophy. Another hunter and I went to the Parcham Conservatory in mid-December 2019. We hunted out of Ravmed and Khijez. We were both successful on 10-11-year-old ibex over 40”. The outfitter was helpful and organized. Guides do their best and want you to harvest a trophy. They accommodate any and all physical and skill levels. Game was plentiful. I believe anyone could actually go on this hunt but the better climbing shape you are in your odds of being successful go up exponentially. The farther you can shoot the better off you are. I felt completely safe and welcome everywhere. Sightseeing was fantastic. Amenities go from none to nice.

The travel from Dushanbe to hunting area is arduous.

went in january had a lot of snow made it hard to get around i think it would have been better in november or december. the crew worked very hard and i had a great time hunting with them. they seen to my every need we had a lot of fun. took two nice ibex would like to go back and try and get the giant we were after

the whole experience was jus awesome would definitely do it again

A great experience

Personnel were very helpful

At 77 years old the mountains are getting harder

Challenging but rewarding hunt!

The people I encountered were all very friendly and very happy to engage with me as a visiting hunter from another country. The team of professionals who assisted me could not have been more helpful and attentive. They worked extremely hard to make sure my hunt was successful and that my experience was positive. I spent a couple extra days seeing Dushanbe and had a wonderful tour guide who again, went above and beyond to insure my stay was memorable. The history of Tajikistan is fascinating and the Tajik people I encountered are proud and very hard working... I would definitely hunt again with Conservation Hunting and I consider it a great value in mountain hunting. I very well may return for other hunts if I can afford to hunt some of the other game that they have available. I will be in better physical shape and do more distance shooting at steep angles before returning... Oh, another thing, I loved the food! There were always fresh fruit and vegetables available and the soups and main courses were delicious...

Conservation Hunting has a few different hunting areas depending on what animal/s you are hunting. Ibex was my quarry and they can be found in a couple of different hunting areas. For several reasons I ended up going to an area that was extremely physically demanding and we had a big snow storm dump over a foot of snow on the valley bottoms, followed by sub freezing temperatures. During other times of the year they are able to use horses and trucks to get closer to the actual hunting area which would make a huge difference. I was able to ride a horse some, but mostly it was extreme hiking/climbing. Also, this area is particularly challenging to get close to the animals so the shots are very long and often at extreme angles. I ended up connecting on two large ibex and a large wild boar, but it was the hardest hunt I have undertaken.

Amazing amazing experience hunting Ibex in Tajikistan!

Everything about this hunt was professional and an absolute adventure! The food, people, and entire experience was just beyond words great! The entire team here works extremely hard to make sure you have success. From the time I landed in Dushanbe to the time I was back at the airport heading home, I was in good hands. You need to prepare for this hunt as it will challenge you physically in the mountains. Also, prepare for shots from 300-400 yds. The guides will work with you to accommodate your abilities though. We saw a LOT of ibex! Outstanding opportunities. If you can hike you will get a change at a big ibex! Listen to this outfitter when he recommends a minimum 300 win mag. These ibex are bigger than I expected! I enjoyed the Tajikistan food and culture SO much! It is almost impossible to describe the beauty of the Pamir mountains. Feels like you are on another planet! If you are going to Tajikistan, I HIGHLY recommend them!!!!

It is very difficult to list anything I didn't like. It is a fairly long drive to the hunt area from Dushanbe but the scenery along the way more than makes up for the hours spent in the vehicle.

Best value for a true mountain hunt

Everything was perfect! From securing proper permits to transportation to and from camp. Safely factor was high. Food was fresh and good. No language barrier. I will be bring my wife and son back to this hunt area and outfitter.

Hunting in great nature guided by kind professionals

The atmosphere

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A hunt that benefits the REAL people that guard the game!

Hunting with ANCOT is the real McCoy as you will be hunting with villagers that live in the area and are aware of the benefits that trophy hunting has brought to their communities. You may go as a guest but I guarantee you will come back as a friend. I have penned an article about this hunt and ANCOT that will appear in the 2021 Spring Issue of the Wild Sheep Magazine. It will be titled "A Pro Bono Ibex Hunt".

A real mountain hunt.

This is a true adventure in every way and a real mountain hunt. The guides and helpers will do everything possible to help you be successful but it is a real real hunt in massive mountains. The people are kind. The guides are knowledgeable and just love to hunt. The ibex are plentiful. This hunt was on my bucket list and it lived up to every expectation that I had. A dream trip that I'll never forget. I was able to take a fantastic 9yr ibex on the first day after a 4hr+ stalk in some brutal country. He was exactly what I was hoping for. The other hunter in camp killed a great 10yr ibex 2 days later. This is the best value out there in terms of adventure mountain hunting. Another big perk is all the money stays local giving locals jobs and funding conservation and studies for all the wildlife that live in the Pamir Mountains. The area I was hunting is only 9 miles from Afghanistan, but I never felt unsafe. Every bit of meat is kept and shared by the village and all the meat we ate on the hunt was ibex. Because of these hunts and hunter dollars the poaching is non existent now and these awesome animals have value. Its a pretty fantastic success story.

The drive from Dushanbe was really long to get to hunting area. I knew this before the hunt, but it was the only part of the hunt that wasn't really enjoyable.

Памир в моем сердце навсегда

С момента выхода из самолета и до входа обратно мне не пришлось о чем-либо думать кроме охоты. Отличное питание, проживание, передвижение на транспорте все на высшем уровне. Даже длинная и утомительная дорога из Душанбе на Памир и обратно пролетела под впечатлениями красивейших гор и рек Таджикистана. Проводники - профессионалы которые могут организовать охоту и за 1 день и найти требуемый трофей. Оформление всех необходимых документов на оружие, на охоту, на перемещение по приграничным районам было сделано на высоком уровне. Впечатлило добродушие и гостеприимство начиная от руководителей охоты до обычного водителя автомобиля.

Отопление в горном лагере не справилось с морозами, в помещении было холодно. Несмотря на тренированность были симптомы горной болезни в первый день. Но это трудности которые можно и нужно преодолевать.

Ibex January 2023

Great mountain hunt. Terrain is very steep and was difficult to navigate for a 34 year old flatlander. Flights were delayed causing me to show up 3 days late, but the outfitter made all the arrangements to get me into camp with no issues. Got the ibex on the first day. Didn't want to chance it with shortened time frame and more potential snow. Wish the hunt would have lasted a little longer. Shot was 285 yards. All the rangers/guides are very kind and helpful. The area we hunted was 4 hours from the airport in the Vakhsh mountain range. Very comfortable base camp/house and good food.

Did not have an interpreter or a English speaking person in camp, so it made communication difficult when asking questions. Google Translate with the language predownloaded helps. Spent a week in town to have the trophies prepared for the return home which was unexpected and a little monotonous.

2023 Tajik ibex success

The scenery and terrain that the ibex inhabit is second to none. Extreme mountain hunt which is what I was looking for. Very competent guide. Could tell he has hunted the area for quite some time. Successfully hunted a nice ibex on the 4th day of hunt. Great value for the money.

Language barrier at times was tough and seemed like the outfitter was in a rush for us to leave once our hunt was completed. Would have preferred to stay in camp a little longer even if not hunting.

Ibex hunting 2023

This was my second Ibex hunting experience with Conservation Hunting. Both trips were extremely well organized and well run. Camps, guides, interpreter, transportation and food were all great. Communications with the outfitter and importation paperwork were excellent. I do not have any complaints. Everyone was helpful and knowledgeable about the area and game.

Unfortunately, during the time we hunted the weather was very bad. Lots of rain and fog which made seeing animals in the mountains nearly impossible. I would have liked to see more ibex. Fortunately,I was able to shoot an ibex very late in the hunt but due to limited time and weather I was unable to get a picture with it.

A great hunting trip to Tajikistan

The whole trip was fantastic. Exactly the adventure I was looking for. I was picked up from the airport and driven (about 8h on mixed roads) to the West Central area of Tajikistan right into the shadow of Peak Ismoil Somoni. After arrival we overnighted in a small village and ate delicious local food. The next morning, we hiked out to the hunting camp, which consisted of two large wall tents and rugged amenities. The food and the company in camp was both great and the guides (huntsman) appeared knowledgeable and friendly despite the language barrier. (An interpreter was always present to help with communications). The next morning, we headed out to find the Ibex; after a rather challenging 3h hike up in a creek bed and after seeing a brown bear sow with two second year cubs, we reached the headwall of a high basin at about 12000 feet and spotted about 50-60 Ibex bedded on a glacier. We were able to climb above them and successfully harvest a 12-year-old billy with 122 cm horns. I could not be happier. The next day we hiked back to camp, and the day after drove back to Dushanbe. All in all, a trip of a lifetime. I would love to do it again.

Nothing really, the whole experience was great. Maybe the only thing that would have been nice was to know in advance how many guides (huntsman) and other personnel was in camp to be able to tip them adequately. But again, I could have also taken a bit more money with me right of the bat.

Great hunt

Lots of ibex, the communication before the hunt was great and all questions answered quickly. The local guides were top notch and knew just where to find them and how to approach them. It’s a lot of hiking in big mountains but a lot of great ibex.

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Незабываемая охота на козерога в Джиргаталь

Очень понравилась охота и как все организовано. Вся команда организаторов старалась как могла с момента прилета и обратно. Особенно молодцы проводники, которые старалсь найти, подсказать и добыть что-то реально, что называется, oversized...)) Что в итоге и получилось во многом благодаря их стараниям и упорству. Охота очень-очень ходовая. Дневные переходы 10-15 км, в том числе до 1000м подьемы. К этому надо быть готовым физически и морально. Треккинг очень схож с нашим Кавказом кто бывал, только масштабы побольше))

Ничего стоящего упоминания не было. Мелкие ньюансы - не в счет...

Hunt of a lifetime

I never thought I’d be able to hunt ibex in my lifetime… it was literally just a dream. Making that dream a reality and doing it with my best friend was just awesome. I highly recommend this experience if you enjoy mountain hunting. The mountains and landscape are amazing. I have been mountain hunting in my home range (north cascades) most of my life but the scale of the Pamirs is on another level. It was a must do hunt for me. The ibex themselves are incredible animals from their unparalleled climbing ability, to their impressive horns and stout/sturdy bodies and legs. It’s awesome to observe these animals in their natural environment. The rangers/guides, driver, logistics coordinator, and interpreter were all great people. You are in good hands and they go above and beyond to ensure your experience is the best possible. You can trust these people to look out for your best interests at all times. Keep in mind your interpreter may not be with you past the main camp so bring a pen and paper to make communication easier. Knowing a few basic words goes a long ways. Once the rangers/guides trusted our hiking/hunting and technical abilities they actually allowed us to take part in the packing out of our animals/gear. This is a very important part of the hunt for us so we really appreciated that opportunity!

There was nothing about the trip I didn’t like. There were some flight issues outside the control of all involved and they actually allowed us to make up time by hiking in the same day we landed and then when we got back they used their connections to help us get flights back home. Get in shape for this hunt and drink lots of water in the mountains it’s easy to be dehydrated if you’re not used to the climate.