Iran

Caprinae Safaris has been successfully operating in game-rich Iran for many years. Our local hunting teams are accustomed to guiding the world's most prolific and adventurous hunters to their objectives. And we regard Iran as an imperative destination to hunt for an array of wild sheep, ibex, and gazelles.

The successor to the Persian Empire, Iran is warm and welcoming of international hunters. Whatever negative image of any country that geopolitics and the media may portray, those who hunt enough globally know that humanity at the ground level – the local people who work diligently to conduct their hunts – are just like them. They are genuinely friendly and giving. Hunting brings them employment and they are proud to showcase their authentic hospitality and professional hunting skills in the field.

It was Prince Abdorreza Pahlavi (1924–2004), one of the world's foremost hunter-conservationists, who left a lasting legacy that has shaped Iran's present day hunting programs. His accomplishments reflect a unique blend of hunting mastery and conservation advocacy. Published stories of his hunting expeditions gave us initial glimpses in the alluring game species of his home country. Overall, he was one of the most prolific big-game hunters of his time, having taken over 260 varieties of big-game animals and more than 400 record-class trophies.

Despite his hunting prowess, the prince was a passionate conservationist. He believed that sustainable hunting could support wildlife preservation. He used his personal hunting platform to advocate for conservation worldwide, balancing fair-chase hunting with environmental stewardship. His leadership is credited with making Iran the top hunting destination that it is today.

Hunts primarily take place in national reserves and protected areas managed by the Iranian Department of Environment. The country's rugged terrain, including the Alborz and Zagros mountain ranges, deserts, and Caspian forests, provides a challenging and scenic backdrop for hunters.

Iran is a premier destination for sheep hunters, offering seven distinct species huntable in various regions of the country. The Transcaspian Urial, known for its impressive horns and challenging habitat, are found in northeastern reserves like Khosh-Yeylagh, Heydari, Tandore, Hydare, Salok, and Sarygol. The Armenian Sheep (Mouflon) are found in northwestern Iran, between Tabriz and the Zagros Mountains. Esfahan Sheep (Mouflon) are hunted in the central-western reserves like Tange-Sayad, Kolah-Gazi, and Mooteh. In southeastern reserves such as Kabr-va-Rouchon and Bafgh are Kerman Sheep. In southwestern Iran near Shiraz, close to the Persian Gulf, are Shiraz Sheep. Laristan Sheep inhabit the southeast, south of Kerman. And the Red Sheep are hunted in central-northern reserves like Vargin and Parvar.

Iran is also noted for its Ibex hunting. Both the Persian Desert Ibex and Bezoar Ibex make stunning additions to trophy rooms. The Goitered Gazelle, known for its sandy fawn coat and distinctive horns in males, is native to Iran's desert plains. A smaller gazelle species, also found in desert regions, is the Jabeer (Kennion) Gazelle.

Wild Boar are abundant across Iran and it's known for producing large tuskers. Hunts are usually conducted as driven hunts for groups of hunters in areas easily accessible within a drive of 4-6 hours from Tehran.

The hunting season typically runs from mid-September to mid-March, with big game hunts occurring primarily from October to March. However, wild boar hunting is available year-round.

Hunting areas include mountainous regions with game found at elevations of 6500–9000 feet (2000-3000 meters), desert plains, and hilly fields with sparse vegetation. Like the method for hunting mountain game virtually everywhere, hunts for sheep and ibex involve glassing canyons and ridges followed by stalking on foot. Shooting distances typically range from 150–250 meters.

With its welcoming and conservation-based hunting culture, Iran is a magnet for mountain hunters and species collectors. And with so many species available and access to their respective hunting areas reachable by commercial flight or road transfer, combination hunts make very good sense.

We have all the answers to all the usual questions about each species, visas, travel logistics, gun importation, and trophy handing. Contact us and speak with one of our experts who will help you explore Iran's exceptional hunting programs in detail.