Mid-Asian Ibex in Kazakhstan
Mid-Asian Ibex (Capra sibirica alaiana) habitat spreads from Tian Shan Mountains in Kyrgyzstan to Dzungarian Alatau in Kazakhstan. One of the best and the most asked areas to hunt Ibex in Asia is Kazakhstan. Big-size trophies reach 43’’ to 57’’ (110 to 140 cm) in length with the base measuring 10’’– 12’’ (25 to 29 cm). This region embraces the mountain range of Dzungarian Alatau – central part of so-called “Semirechye” on the south-east of Kazakhstan.
Hunting
This is a physically demanding mountain hunt, which is done by horseback, including everything relating to a wild-life hunt. That is why hunters should be ready for basic facilities of a mountain camp and hunt. To take such a trophy, one has to accept a challenge at elevations of 2,000 – 3,000 meters (6,500 – 9,500 ft). Ibexes are easily seen early in the morning, as they feed at this time of the day and travel till approximately 9 a.m. After 9 a.m., if not spooked, they tend to go to the places, where they can lie up during the day. After 5 p.m. they get back. Hunter and our experienced PRO guide do glassing and spotting, when Ibexes stay in rocks or while traveling. If a good one is spotted, they stalk it as far as a shooting range. Hunter must be in the top physical shape to make this hunt successful as well as to be able to shoot at a long range 220– 270 m (240 – 300 yards). We have been guiding Ibex hunting in Kazakhstan for more than 18 years with over 95% success.
Areas
Kazakhstan, National Park ALTYN EMEL’; Dzungarian Ala-Tau
Route
You should better take Turkish Airlines via Istanbul and arrive to Almaty. Our manager and interpreter, who will assist you through customs, will meet you at airport. Our PRO representative will do everything possible to expedite the customs procedure. Our car will take you to the hotel for the rest. In the morning you will travel to the hunting area and you have to be ready for 5 – 6 hours drive to get to the Altyn Emel National Park or 12-14 hours drive to get to Dzungarian Alatau, 6 hrs - to Narynkol; 8 hrs - to Kegen; 12 hrs - to National Park “Sairam Ugamsk”.
Season
August 1 to November 15.
Climate
Normally, the weather is favorable during the hunting season. Temperatures during the day are 10–20 0C (50-70 0F) then during the night can drop down till – 5 0C (20 0F). Slopes might be covered with snow at 2,500 meters (8,000 feet). Rains are possible in Altyn Emel and snow in Dzungaria and Ily Alatau.
Camps
Camps are hunting cabins, tents or Asian yurts. They are clean, warm and comfortable, but have no modern conveniences. A good skilled camp staff makes you feel comfortable. Temporary spike tent camps are in use in part of the area. All base camps have showers, cooks and interpreters. Base camps are located in deep mountains, while spike camps are on the plateau at around 2,000–2,500 meters (5,500–7,000 feet).
Schedule for Dzungarian Ala-Tau
Day 1 | arrival in Almaty, transfer to the hunting area. Travel to Tokhty and Sarybukhter lasts 12-13 hours, arrival in the camp, rest |
Day 2-8 | 7 days hunt |
Day 9 | travel to Almaty, departure home |
Schedule for Altyn Emel’ National Park
Day 1 | arrival in Almaty, 4 hours transfer by car to the hunting area |
Day 2-6 | 5 days hunt |
Day 7 | travel to Almaty, departure from Almaty |