Macedonia

Macedonia's thick-layered strata of history reveals 25 centuries of proud existence and rich traditions. Its ancestors toppled the Persian Empire and ruled the known world for centuries before Rome emerged a conquering force. It has endured and prospered while maintaining much of its Old World charm.

Officially North Macedonia, this small landlocked country in the Balkans is known for its rugged mountains, dense forests, and rich biodiversity. Its diverse terrain supports a wide range of native and introduced game species. Over 100 designated and well-managed hunting grounds, stunning vistas, and welcoming hospitality attract hunters from around the world. It has earned a solid reputation both as a trophy producer and an enjoyable place to hunt.

The Balkan Chamois (Rupicapra balcanica), prized for its speed, agility, and impressive horn size, is the crown jewel of Macedonian hunting. They inhabit rugged mountainous territory above 2000 meters (6500 feet) but typically descend to lower altitudes in winter months. Macedonia is renowned for having the highest concentration of Balkan chamois in the Balkans. Strict game management policies have ensured sustainable populations and high-quality genetics with trophies often achieving medal status.

The principal hunting area utilized by Caprinae Safaris for hunting Balkan Chamois is Karadžica, which is part of the Jasen nature reserve located a short drive from Skopje. Hunting begins in September with the peak of the rut (November) revealing even more Chamois appearing across the rocky faces of this mountainous region and its foothills. This nimble and wary Capra embodies the epitome of spot and stalk mountain hunting with long-range shooting ability and physical fitness being key enablers of hunt success.

An introduced species from Greek islands (Atalanti and Sapientza), the Kri Kri ibex (Capra aegagrus cretica) is a rare and exclusive target. Its long horns relative to body size and unique color markings make it a major draw for hunters seeking unique trophies. Caprinae Safaris conducts Kri Kri Ibex hunts in the most productive hunting region – the Lakavica hunting reserve located approximately 100 km (60 mi.) south of Skopje. Success on trophy quality animals has been 100% over our long history of hunting there. So, Macedonia is the "go-to" destination for this challenging trophy.

Known for their impressive curved and often massive horns, Mouflon are both native and introduced in Macedonia. They thrive in the mountainous and forested region of Karadžica and lush Mediterranean-like terrains. Intensive conservation efforts implemented years ago, including a six-year hunting suspension in some areas, have led to hunters now taking exceptional mouflon trophies.

The Lakavica Reserve also offers excellent hunts for Fallow Deer. The high and palmated antlers typically being taken signify good herd health and strong genetics.

Eurasian Wild Boar Wild boars are abundant across Macedonia's forests and hilly regions, offering a challenging and thrilling hunt due to their size and strength.

Home to an estimated 2,000 Grey Wolves, Macedonia has of the highest populations in Europe relative to its size. The wolves have abundant prey like sheep and goats, so hunting them is a major draw, especially during winter months.

While Macedonia understandably attracts species hunters, it has a broader appeal to hunters with a variety of goals. For the mountain hunting generalist and those who simply desire depth to the hunting experience through a unique cultural connection to good people and beautiful terrain, Macedonia delivers. Contact us for the latest insights about this wonderful hunting destination.