Marco Polo argali, It is also called the Pamir argali. It is named after Marco Polo, a Venetian merchant and traveler who was the first European to describe this species. Marco Polo is one of the best wild sheep and one of the best hunting trophies in the world. It lives at high altitudes, which not all hunters can cope with; some developed pulmonary edema, and they needed evacuation. Weight up to 300 pounds. A large, long-legged argali with a light backbone and the most beautiful horns among sheep in the world. In winter, the upper part of the body becomes somewhat darker brown, and the collar on the neck reaches the sternum. The winter coat is much longer, which makes the animal seem larger and heavier than it actually is.
HUNTING SEASON
In the Republic of Tajikistan, the hunt for Marco Polo begins in September and lasts until the end of February. Since the area for hunting Marco Polo is mainly a high-altitude area, the most optimal time for successful hunting is from October to January.
HUNTING LOCATION
Given that the highest peak reaches 7600 meters and 90% of the country is covered with mountain peaks, it is not surprising that Tajikistan is not only a spectacular view but also one of the most difficult hunting areas in the world. Constant winds and low temperatures add to the thrill. Only real men can get the coveted trophy in such conditions. Hunting takes place at an altitude of 4200 -5000 meters. The main hunting grounds are located near The Kumdi and Rangkul base camps.
THE PROCESS OF HUNTING
Four-wheel drive vehicles are used to search for animals. The hunt begins early in the morning and continues until dusk, and throughout the day, hunters survey the mountain slopes and feeding areas in search of sheep. After a male with horns of the desired size is spotted, the hunt continues on foot from the approach. This stage requires good physical training. Be prepared to shoot from a long distance, up to 400-500 meters. In the evening, the hunter returns to the base camp for rest.
ROUTE
Arrival city Dushanbe, from Dushanbe to the hunting camp you will be taken by car. You will need to get to the city of Khorog, it will take about 10-12 hours, rest a little in Khorog, staying overnight in one of the local hotels, and then from Khorog directly to the hunting camp for another 4-5 hours. The road is tedious and long, but it allows you to gradually adapt to the height. For this type of hunting, it is advisable to plan from
ACCOMMODATION
There are several basic hunting camps at your disposal, the main camps are Snow Leopard Camp (Alichur district, Kumdi point), Rangkul Camp (near the border with China, Shotput point). The camps are located at an altitude of 3900-4000 meters. Usually, there is a group of 4-6 hunters at one camp at the same time.
Snow Leopard Camp: A warm, clean, comfortable camp. There are separate rooms for a dining room, bedroom, shower. There is electricity.
Camp Rangkull: This camp is a simple, cozy guest house and, although it does not boast all the amenities of Snow Leopard Camp, however, the size of the trophies obtained here is no different. Each camp has a satellite phone, a first aid kit.
