Tian-Shan Maral in Kazakhstan

The Elk, or Wapiti (Cervus canadensis), is one of the largest species of deer in the world and one of the largest mammals in North America and Eastern Asia. In Eastern Asia, wapiti occur in the border areas between Siberia and China, and between Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan and China. Four subspecies described in Asia include the Altai Wapiti (C. canadensis sibiricus) and the Tian Shan Wapiti (C. canadensis songaricus). Local name of this magnificent stag is Maral. The summer pelage is light bay, with the legs and head being darker in color. In winter the pelage assumes a somewhat darker shade, with the color on the lower part of the body varying from a light to a very dark grey. Wapiti has a light colored rump patch. Cows are more uniform fawny grey than bulls.

We offer you hunt in the foothills and forests of Eastern Kazakhstan bordering with China.

We have been guiding the Maral stag hunts for 16 years with over 90% success. Maral hunting is one of demanded and perfect mountain hunts. It is a mountain hunt in every sense. The Maral antlers are massive and similar in form to those of North American wapitis.

The hunt requires somewhat more rugged hunters, willing to use horses extensively. Bugling in a mature elk is one of the greatest hunting trills of all. It is not uncommon to hear six to nine Maral calling at the same time. You leave the camp on horse riding to the hunting area about sunrise. Once the trophy is located, you complete your stalk on foot. You will spend 5-7 days in a spike camp, which is always part of your hunt.

During daylight hours the temperature in September is from 40 to 50°F (5 to 10°C) and during night time from 25 to 32°F (–5 up to 0°C). Normally, the weather is favorable during the hunting season. Slopes might be covered with snow 8,800 ft (2,700 m) up.

Area

Dzungarian Ala-Tau. Exclusive hunting area “Arkhan-Kegen” (“Pechurkin”) South-East Kazakhstan at the border to
China.

#1 and # 2 of SCI Record Book are from this area!

Hunting season

Best season is during the rutting time - September 08 to October 08

Route

Upon your arrival in Almaty by Turkish Airlines via Istanbul our manager and interpreter will meet you at the airport and assist you through customs. From the airport after short stop for lunch (dinner) you will travel to the hunting area. You have to be ready for 12 – 14 hour drive to Dzungarian Alatau.

Camp & Accommodation

Very comfortable hunting cabin with double– and single-room accommodation, shower and famous Russian sauna. Before the hunt you pack all the stuff you will need on the hunt to the horse packing bags and sight your weapon. After successful hunt you have a chance to relax at the base camp and enjoy the wonderful local cuisine while the camp personal will prepare your trophies for the transport. During the hunt we use tented fly camps, set up at new places almost every night.

Schedule