Africa
PAKISTAN
Markhor, Ibex, Urial, Blue Sheep
Pakistan is home to some of the rarest mountain and forest species of the world. It has 9 mountain species, and 9 forest species, 3 different species of Markhors, 2 of ibex and 4 of wild sheep can be hunted in this paradise.
Blandford urial is a unique specie from Pakistan, it is considered as one of the most beautiful species of urial. The hunting season goes from November to March, the best time is January, February and March. Early season is much warmer so is a less comfortable hunt, physically is a relatively easy hunt, trophy size is usually between 26-30”.
Sindh ibex: the average horn length is 37-38”. Hunting takes place in the Sindh province in southern Pakistan, around 2 hours drive. The highest peak in the area is only 3000 feet while most of the hunting takes place between 600 and 2100 feet.
Astor Markhor: it is found in the Gilgit Baltistan province of Pakistan, it is named after the Astor Valley. In comparison with the Kashmir their horns curves are wider. It si possible to combine it with Himalayan ibex.
Himalayan ibex: it is indigenous of Pakistan Himalayan and Karakurum range. December to March is suitable for ibex as the snow brings them to lower areas. The altitudes were they can be hunted are between 9000-12000 feet and the average horns 36-40”
Blue sheep: the hunt takes place int he famed Shimshal Valley which currently has the largest concentration of Blue sheep in the word. They can be hunted at an altitude of 14,000 feet but usually hunters get them at around 12500 feet. Can be combined with Himalayan ibex.
Kashmir Markhor: the season runs from November to mid April, the rut occurs in December, in certain areas even a drive could be organized to come down but still the hunter needs to be in good physical condition.
Suleiman Markhor: the area is located 7 hours drive from the city of Quetta which is the capital of Baluchistan province. The hunt requieres a good physical condition but the mountains are not as high and steep as the Himalayas or the Hindukush. They can be hunted at altitudes of 7000-9000 feet.
Afghan Urials: they are found in the Baluchistan province in Torgar area where they can be combined with Suleiman Markhor, they are also found in the Suleiman mountain range. They like to stay in the lower hills, however a good physical condition is still necessary.
Punjab Urial: they live in the Salt range mountains of the Punjab province, at altitudes of 1000-2000 get. The average horn length is 24-30”. The best area is the Kalabagh state run by the Malik family. It is not very physically demanding and they can be found roaming on dolly grassy hills. There are only 3 hunting permits given per year. Driving time to get into the area is 4 hours.