Argali Sheep Hunting (including Marco Polo)

Argali is the largest and the most magnificent sheep in the world. Several subspecies of argali are found on the territories of the Central Asian Republics, China and Mongolia.

Marco Polo argali, the largest among all subspecies - in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan

Littldale argali in Kazakhstan and China (Tibet)

Gobi argali in Mongolia

Altai argali in Mongolia and Kazakhstan

Karaganda argali in Kazakhstan

Tian Shan argali (Karelini) in Kyrgyzstan)

Karatau argali in Kazakhstan and China (Tibet)

Argali sheep populate altitudes between 2,500 to 5,500 meters (7,500-16,000 ft.). The hunt is relatively easy physically for Karaganda, Gobi and Altai argali, which populate lower elevations, but it can be very demanding for Marco Polo due to very high elevations. Stalking the sheep requires a great deal of patience. Shots are frequently taken from distances of up to 400 meters. A significant advantage is a familiarity with handling a horse. Local horses are well adapted to high altitudes. Travel on horseback enables one to cover longer distances, with less physical pain, in search of the perfect ram. Strict regulations by local governmental and international agencies allow the Argali population to remain stable. Only about 100 licenses a year are issued for Marco polo argali, and licenses for Karaganda, Littledale and Karatau argali licenses are issued on even more limited basis.

For more information on argali hunting please visit www.argalihunt.com.