Hunting Kri-Kri Ibex: A One-of-a-Kind Experience

The Kri-Kri ibex (Capra aegagrus cretica) is a kind of ibex native to the Mediterranean island of Crete. The Kri Kri ibex is slightly smaller than its mainland relatives, with males weighing in at around 150 pounds and females averaging around 100 pounds. These animals are Associated with good fortune and prosperity by the locals, which has made them a popular target for hunters from all over the world. For the thrill seeker in all of us, hunting the Kri-Kri ibex on Sapienza Island is an experience not to be missed.

This uninhabited island in the Mediterranean Sea is home to this elusive ibex, as well as ancient ruins and shipwrecks.  The Kri-Kri Ibex hunt is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Not only we got the chance to track and hunt this amazing creature, but also get to explore the Peloponnese and saw some of the most incredible views in Europe.

Imagine yourself standing on the edge of a rocky cliff next to the beach, scanning the horizon on the island of Sapientza for any sign of movement. Suddenly, you see a flash of brown amidst the scrub brush. You raise your shotgun, aim, and fire. The next thing you know, you’re standing over a magnificent Kri Kri ibex, victorious in your hunt. In the 20th century, purebred Kri Kri Ibex started to disappear because of hybridization. Today, only a single place on earth still has it – Sapienza Island in Greece!

Success Comes to Those Who are Prepared !

But don’t be fooled by the beautiful panorama of the island. The hunting is very difficult due to impassable thorns and bushes bristling with sharp rocks that make it almost unbearable for hunters who dare to go there. Four days of hunting and 4 hours a day are all we could get from government officials before turning back home empty-handed. Our weapon: the shotgun is the Second challenge! In order to make it more difficult for us hunters, the rules forbid use of any optics. The third challenge to me was the weather: when wind blows from the open sea, and waves are deadly while the ship may go to wreckage if caught in shallows or rocks close by.

However, deep waters remain with a depth of 5 kilometers! Despite all these difficulties – just like what was done by Ancient Olympic Games winners. We got the price – 3 big gold medal ibexes and we celebrated with our buddies who managed to survive and conquer obstacles as our ancestors did back then at Olympia. This short 4 days hunt is something amazing with all the scenery around on the island and the great and friendly hosts. Our knowledgeable tour guides take us back in time to see the ancient ruins of Olympia and Sparta, and more. We were able to dive into the history and culture of this fascinating place. With 5 days to explore all these amazing destinations, we had plenty of time to see everything there. Amazing vacation and hunting destination as no other!

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