Chamois Hunting in the Alps: a unique experience in Italy
Published On: Settembre 24, 2023

Chamois hunting is one of the most beautiful and exciting hunts, especially with the Piedmontese Alps as the backdrop and for many hunters, just like Andrea, it is his preferred hunt.

“From when I was young I used to follow my father on our mountains, looking for chamois. I remember our first hunting day together: I was 10 years old. It was September, shortly after the opening of the season, a very hot day. Around midday, my father decided to take a nap but I was too excited, so he left me to watch for chamois, telling me to wake him up in case I saw something. I never took my eyes away from the binoculars, when suddenly behind three rocks our yearling appeared. I had hoped for it so much that I think somebody put him there for me.”

If you have never tried it before, this could be your next hunting trip where you can have an unforgettable experience in Italy and discover the incredible beauties of this country.

Under the watchful eye of the Monviso, the highest mountain of the Cottian Alps, you can enjoy the splendid valleys of Val Maira full of chamois.

An extraordinary area, full of every kind of alpine game, where the roar of the deer echoes down in the valley while, higher up, the chamois chase each other among stony ground and reign undisputed.

Chamois hunting creates a mix of contrasting sensations in the hunter’s soul: effort and commitment combine with emotion and passion.

At the end of the day, you understand that the efforts made to get to the top of the mountain are rewarded by the landscape that surrounds you.

This hunt takes you hunting chamois in a fascinating and extremely suggestive place.

The alarm goes off early on hunting days: we start at dawn with four-wheeled vehicles as far as possible, then we climb the paths in search of the “Rupicapra” in its usual haunts.

It is a good idea to wear stiff-soled boots, gaiters, and arm yourself with a good hiking stick, while clothing is better in layers, especially if you hunt at the beginning of the opening of the season.

Between the open valleys and the majestic peaks, it is easy to get excellent trophies, both in males and females. Yearlings are also available for those not particularly interested in the trophy.

Once the adventure in the Alps in search of the prey of choice for alpine hunting is over, we return to the hunting lodge. An extraordinarily comfortable lodge with a traditional feel, with its characteristic rooms, caves dug into the mountain, where the hunter is welcomed with a relaxing Spa and the splendid cuisine of the restaurant.

As all hunters know: there is nothing better than a sauna or a jacuzzi after a chamois climb, perhaps accompanied by a good glass of local wine.

The Chamois Hunting Season in the Alps

The chamois hunting season in the Alps is an eagerly anticipated event for hunters, combining tradition, adventure, and respect for nature. This hunting season is carefully regulated to ensure the sustainability and conservation of chamois populations, allowing hunters to experience something truly unique in one of the world’s most spectacular mountain environments.

The chamois hunting season in the Alps varies slightly depending on the region and specific local regulations. Generally, the season starts in mid-September and extends until November. This period coincides with the beginning of autumn, when the chamois descend to lower altitudes and are more easily spotted.

Hunting in the Alps offers an extraordinary experience, not just for the challenge it presents, but also for the breathtaking beauty of the alpine landscape. The mountains provide spectacular vistas, with snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and azure skies that make every moment in this natural wonderland truly unforgettable.

The Val Maira Chamois

The chamois of the Val Maira valley, nestled in the Italian Alps, represents a cherished symbol of the region’s rugged beauty and biodiversity. These agile and graceful mountain-dwellers, scientifically known as Rupicapra rupicapra, epitomize the spirit of the high-altitude terrain they inhabit.

Inhabiting the steep slopes, rocky cliffs, and alpine meadows of the Val Maira valley, the chamois navigate their challenging habitat with remarkable agility and grace. Their nimbleness allows them to forage on a diet of grasses, herbs, and shrubs, while their keen senses and sharp hooves help them evade predators such as wolves and golden eagles.

The chamois’s distinctive appearance, with its short, reddish-brown coat and backward-curving horns, adds to the allure of encounters with these magnificent creatures in the wild. Their presence in the Val Maira valley serves as a testament to the region’s pristine natural landscapes and conservation efforts.

For outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife enthusiasts alike, observing chamois in their natural habitat is a memorable experience that offers a glimpse into the unique ecology of the Italian Alps. As ambassadors of the alpine wilderness, the chamois of the Val Maira valley play an essential role in maintaining the delicate balance of the mountain ecosystem and inspiring admiration for the natural world.

The ideal rifle fot this hunt

The ideal rifle is the one with which the hunter feels most confident and comfortable. However, we will try to provide an overview of the options that are most suitable in our opinion.

One fascinating and traditionally popular option is the so-called “Kipplauf” break-action rifles, which represent an excellent choice for mountain chamois hunting, offering lightness, maneuverability, and ideal precision for the challenges of the alpine environment. These rifles are characterized by an elegant and functional design, with a break-action lever that allows for quick reloading and easy ejection of spent cartridges.

The lightweight nature of break-action Kipplauf rifles makes them particularly suitable for transport in mountainous terrain, allowing hunters to tackle long hikes without excessive fatigue. They can be disassembled and conveniently stored in a backpack for easy transport and assembly when sighting. Furthermore, their maneuverability is crucial when hunting chamois in rugged and demanding environments, where swift and agile movement is often necessary.

If you prefer the classic bot action opt for a lightweight and maneuverable one specifically designed for mountain hunting. Look for features such as a durable synthetic stock, a smooth bolt operation, and a reliable trigger mechanism. Brands like Sako, Tikka, Benelli and Franchi offer excellent options tailored to mountain hunting conditions.

The best caliber for hunting chamois in the mountains depends on factors such as your shooting proficiency, the distance of your shots, and local regulations. Here are some popular caliber choices:

.270 Winchester: Known for its flat trajectory and manageable recoil, the .270 Winchester is a versatile caliber suitable for mountain hunting. It offers sufficient power and accuracy for taking down chamois at moderate distances.

6.5 Creedmoor: With its excellent long-range performance and mild recoil, the 6.5 Creedmoor has gained popularity among mountain hunters. It delivers impressive accuracy and terminal ballistics, making it an effective choice for chamois hunting.

7mm-08 Remington: Offering a good balance of power, trajectory, and recoil, the 7mm-08 Remington is another excellent choice for mountain hunting. It provides sufficient energy for cleanly harvesting chamois while maintaining manageable recoil for follow-up shots.

Ultimately, the best rifle and caliber combination for hunting chamois in the mountains is one that you are comfortable and proficient with, and that meets the specific requirements of your hunting environment and regulations. Before embarking on your hunting expedition, be sure to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding firearm calibers and hunting methods.

Tips and tricks

Bring Only the Essentials

When preparing for a mountain hunting trip, it is crucial to carry only the essentials to avoid being weighed down by unnecessary items.

Although any professional backpack will do the job, choosing one with a light frame will significantly ease the burden of carrying your gear.

Here’s a detailed list of what you should bring:

• Functional Clothing: Wear light, breathable layers. Bring a waterproof and windproof fleece jacket to protect yourself from sudden weather changes, which are frequent in the mountains.
• Extra Socks: An extra pair of socks can make a big difference, especially if yours get wet or worn out during the hike.
• Range Finder: Essential for accurately assessing distances and improving your shooting precision.
• Camera: To capture unforgettable moments and the breathtaking beauty of the alpine landscape.
• Cell Phone: For emergencies or to coordinate with other members of your group.
• Headlamp: Essential for moving safely in the dark, whether early in the morning or at dusk.
• Isotonic Drinks: Bring at least two liters of isotonic drinks to stay hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes during intense physical activity.

You’re not in a hurry

Once you’ve reached your spot and sighted your target, it’s crucial to stay calm. Rushing can compromise the entire hunt. Here are some tips to avoid mistakes:

• Gradual Preparation: When you spot the chamois, take the necessary time to prepare your rifle. Slow, deliberate movements are less likely to alert the game.
• Breathing: Control your breathing to reduce hand tremors and improve shooting accuracy. Deep, steady breaths help stabilize your nerves.
• Careful Observation: Use binoculars to observe the chamois’s movements and predict the best moment for the shot. Pay attention to warning signals from the animals, such as ear movements or muscle tension, which could indicate they’ve sensed your presence.
• Patience: Remember that as long as the chamois isn’t alarmed, you have all the time you need. Patience is one of the most important virtues for a successful hunter.

Nick Hoffmann in 2019 during his hunting with Montefeltro in Val Maira in the Italian Alps

The Importance of Exercise

Facing the challenges of mountain hunting requires adequate physical preparation. Here’s how to prepare best:

• Regular Training: In the months leading up to the hunt, it’s essential to follow a varied training program. Running and cycling are excellent for improving cardiovascular endurance. Add exercises like squats and stair climbing to strengthen your legs and prepare your knees for the strenuous ascent.
• Training with Equipment: Once you’ve reached a good level of physical fitness, start training with your hunting gear. Wear your backpack and simulate real conditions to get used to the weight and load distribution.
• Nutrition and Hydration: Maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated. Proper nutrition supports physical endurance and recovery after training.
• Preparatory Hikes: If possible, practice hiking on terrain similar to what you’ll face during the hunt. This will help you better adapt to the alpine environment and develop greater confidence in your abilities.

Approaching chamois hunting in the Alps with the right physical and mental preparation will not only improve your chances of success but also allow you to fully enjoy the beauty and majesty of one of the world’s most spectacular natural landscapes.

Now you’re ready to  have the opportunity to hunt chamois, combining it with leisure activities to suit your taste.

Hunting the chamois in the Alps offers an unforgettable experience, not only for the hunting challenge but also for the breathtaking beauty of the alpine landscape. The mountains provide spectacular views, with snow-capped peaks, green valleys, and blue skies that make every moment unique.

Organize a tailor-made experience and give yourself the opportunity to visit our wonderful country, enjoy our food and wine…a customized trip for you!

What are you waiting for? Organize the chamois hunt of your dreams!