Hunting in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the south, and China to the east. Over 90% of its territory lies above 1,500 meters, with the Tian Shan and Pamir ranges dominating the landscape. Hunting areas are primarily located in the Naryn, Issyk-Kul, and Osh regions in the east and south, where vast mountain valleys and ridges create ideal habitat for ibex and argali.

Hunting in Kyrgyzstan has a unique flavor as compared to other mountain hunting destinations, in that it is conducted on horseback more often than on foot, so if you’re not sure which way one gets into saddle, it pays to take a few lessons. Local horses, shaggy, smallish but sturdy, have an amazing ability to navigate seemingly impossible mountain slopes, and are essential to access remote areas and climb to higher elevations where game lives. Once suitable animals are spotted—often through spotting scopes from ridgelines—hunters continue the stalk on foot, sometimes climbing for several hours at high altitude. Shots are usually taken from long distances across steep valleys, requiring accurate rifles, quality optics, and steady marksmanship. Temperatures vary greatly, with cold, windy conditions at altitude. Physical fitness and acclimatization are important, as hunts are often carried out between 3,000 and 4,500 meters above sea level.