Traveling to the hunting location by car in Kyrgyzstan is quite comfortable, but the distances to the hunting grounds are usually very large. On average, they can reach up to 900 km, of which about 200 – 250 km is on good asphalt, 100 – 200 km on poor asphalt, 150 - 200 km on good dirt roads, and up to 100 km on dirt roads (mountainous, winding, difficult).
Typically, the vehicle that will take you is either an SUV, and sometimes part of the journey will be covered by a UAZ or Niva. These details are communicated by the organizers before the tour is arranged, depending on the condition of the road. Sometimes, a convoy of several vehicles is formed, where the lead vehicle is a Ural or Gaz 66, followed by cars with hunters and staff.
The average travel time is from 6 to 12 hours. Usually, the first day is spent on this, so it's advisable to prepare in advance for the long journey. The return trip is generally faster by 2 hours, as the road downhill is often easier than uphill.
Helicopter or airplane for hunting
Sometimes, to avoid long transfers, it is worth ordering an aircraft. This is, of course, not cheap, but it can save 2 days of the hunting duration. Additionally, using a helicopter allows you to conserve your own strength and focus on hunting.
The average cost of operating a helicopter in Kyrgyzstan is from $2000 per hour and can increase depending on fluctuations in aviation fuel prices. Often, the helicopter is used only to drop off the hunter at the hunting location, and the return trip is made by car. There is an opportunity to see magnificent landscapes and take photographs.
Text: Administration of the Extreme Travel Company