"I was very pleased with your whole operation. This was only my second sheep hunt. I have hunted all over North America, with many guides, and I must say that I rate your hunting trip as one of the best I have experienced. I can't thank you enough for everything you did for me!”

Sergei Samotin, Russia:

“I hunted the Okhotsk snow sheep during September 2008 after I had taken a Kolyma snow sheep in one day of hunting. We actually had to spend the first four days of the Kolyma hunt in base camp because the weather would not allow us to move to the Seimkan Mts. for the Okhotsk snow sheep hunt. The rain stopped and we set up our fly camp. The helicopter pilots missed the proper drop-off point and we had landed in an absolutely new area. Our guides had never been here before and had no idea where the sheep could be, but before the first day ended we saw a herd of five males. All of them were too young for shooting, but it was a nice start. The next three days were very foggy, but we did not waste our time and were hunting from dawn till dusk. Then the clouds were blown out by the terrible wind. In seven hunting days we had checked every hill and had covered about 110 or 115 km, but all we saw were young rams or females. On the last day before changing hunting loca¬tions we found them. The youngest one was about 11 years old, but my trophy ram was a minimum of 16 and possibly even 17 years old with massive (like an argali) horns with broken and broomed ends. Sergey Rudakov and my guide Sergei Zuev told me that if the horns were not broken it could be very close to the world record. Anyway, I am happy. I am sure that such a nice trophy is a result of my stubbornness, stamina and of course, my 338 Lapua mag¬num shooting skills.”

/OVIS (Winter 2009), page 79/

Mike Letourneau, USA:

“I amsending my information and short account of my Kolyma snow sheep hunt with Kulu Safaris. I bought this trip from Clarence Dayhoff (MD), who had won it at the Sunday free hunt drawing at the 2007 GSCO convention. After contacting Irene Rudakov, we decided on the first two weeks of October. I was to meet Bob Hattaway (FL) and R/G/ Harris (NC) in Moscow, but my flight from New York with Aeroflot was a nightmare. I was not allowed to on the plane because I did not have my gun permit. I tried to explain to them that someone was waiting for me with it in Moscow, but they just didn’t want to hear it. They kept asking for a copy of it. It was 5 p.m., well past midnight in Moscow. I had to go back to Connecticut where I contacted Citi Travel on the West Coast to see what they could do. Jennifer at Citi Travel got on the phone and also sent four to five emails, and finally at 3:30 a.m. she called the hotel to let me know to go back to the airport the next day and that all copies would be there.
Originally my flight was booked from Moscow to Magadan but during the sum¬mer that got changed. Now we had to fly Moscow/Novisitsk/Magadan. -Because now I was a day late, there was no room on the flight the next day. So the agent for Aeroflot in New York rearranged my flight at no cost except a $40 tip.
Once I arrived, in Russia I had five to six hours in Moscow. Yuri picked me up, we had lunch and went to the other airport where he got me all checked in. He told me to leave $40 and two packs of ciga¬rettes behind and my luggage and rifle case would be checked all the way to Magadan, so I would not have to worry once I got to Irkutsk. Surely no one speaks English there. I landed at 5 a.m. and got into the terminal (which looked more like a shed), and to my surprise there was Irene waiting for me. She was supposed to fly with Bob and R. G. to Magadan, but she was worried I would not know where to go to catch the next flight. She was right, because it was at another build¬ing a block away. It blew me away that she would do that. I don 't know anybody else who would have done that. You are in good hands with Sergey and Irene. There is no need to contact anybody else if you plan on hunting Kolyma and Yakutia snow sheep, as well as brown bear. They have good camps, good food and hot showers at base camp. They also have spacious cabins with a wood stove and they just built a new building for cooking and dining.
We spent six days in town, as we could not fly out to base camp due to weather. The ocean was too rough to get to spike camp, so we had to wait another day. We finally made it around noon the next day. We hunted that afternoon and saw two rams. We saw them again the next morning and took one that was 37" x 36 1/2". The next day we hunted for brown bear. Sergey told us we had to fly out in two days because a major front was com¬ing in with snow and cold weather. We had a short hunt but a great time and I will be going back for Yakutia snow sheep and possibly brown bear in the spring. ”

/OVIS (Winter 2009), page 95/

Sergei Samotin, Russia:

“Everything was organized properly. After arriving in base camp and hav¬ing a very nice lunch, we went by hel¬icopter to the fly camp and after set¬ting up tents we fell asleep, very tired. The next morning we went up into the mountains, which were not very high (just about 1000 meters) but not easy to pass through, because of the big rocks and a lot of small cedar hushes. After three hours of walking and glassing we saw a herd of sheep, but there were no good rams, so we con¬tinued scouting. After two hours more we noticed two rams about five and ten years old. They were feeding at the lowest part of the hill and our position for a shot was perfect. It was 378 meters, but for my Sako TRG-42 that is a very easy shot. So, on the first day of hunting 1 took a rather nice 10-year-old ram.
After that we were going to hunt another snow sheep species, the Okhotsk, so we returned to base camp by boat to have a rest before the heli¬copter took us to the second part of our hunt. Sergei Rudakov of Kulu Safaris is one of the most important parts of my successful hunt. Sergei is the best operator I have ever seen. ”

/OVIS (Winter 2009), page 33/

Gary D. Young, USA:

“This hunt was truly one of the best experiences of my life. The amazing organization of Kulu both before and during our hunt was the best I have experienced. My guide Nicolai was as good as any I have ever seen. It was obvious that his experience in the wilderness area of 37 years is just amazing. His knowledge of the animals, location and hunt area also was amazing. He treated me very well with respect and is now my friend. Thank you Sergey and Irene my friends from Russia for another unbelievable hunt. I look forward to many more.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Harold Grinde, Canada:

“Just a great experience and I enjoyed every minute. I am sorry that I do not speak any Russian to communicate with guides and staff.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

John David Loveland, USA:

“JIt was a very good and successful hunt I really enjoyed everything.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Mr. David Koranski, USA:

“The entire hunting experience from the time we were picked up in the airport until we left was conducted with the utmost professionalism and respect. The respect showed towards me was very unusual in hunting camps, but very much appreciated. Ivan’s treatment towards our group could be used for a model for all human interactions. A young man of maturity beyond his years. My guide was excellent – I only wished we could have communicated better. I guess I need to learn Russian.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Ronald Silva, USA:

“Sometimes it is hard to be friendly when one doesn’t speak the others language. My English/Russian dictionary was very helpful. I wish there was a hunters English/Russian dictionary. Some of the words I needed to translate were not in my dictionary. I can truly say that I have not had a better guide even once that spoke English than Stephan. It was somewhat upsetting to see what was written on the side of the helicopter on leaving. Since I am not of the same financial means as most of the hunters that take this trip I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to be here and be able to harvest the big Russian brown bear.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Todd Fry, USA:

“My 2nd hunt with Kulu safaris. The operation of the Russians is excellent. My guide Sergey Zuev is the best and also a friend. Kulu is a very good outfitter. Sergey and Irene Rudakov are good people and great friends of mine.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Andy Cool, USA:

“What an experience! Sergey and Irene welcomed us with red carpet treatment! The hunting was unbelievable and the scenery was spectacular. We all had an incredible time. Kulu safaris run a fantastic operation – their suits are superior woodsmen and are excellent hunters. I would recommend them to anyone interested in an adventure of a lifetime.Thank you Sergey and Irene.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Walter Coram, USA:

“This was an exciting hunt in great country. The mountains were amazing. I enjoyed hunting with you very much and will work to have the opportunity to hunt with you again.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Russell Young, USA:

“Stepan is an excellent guide and person. He takes very good care of his hunters in every way. Stepan has many skills. He continues to learn from guide Sergey. He is hardworking and takes excellent care of the trophy. The organization and preparation by Kulu is excellent. The hunt was well planned with excellent equipment. Kulu is an outstanding operation. Please keep your high standards.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Randy Darby, USA:

“Todd Try and Kulu Safaris did a great job from start to finish. Had a super time. Will tell my friends to book hunts with you. Thank you.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

John Bravata, USA:

“This trip blew away all my expectations. My guide Pasha was Amazing. The memories that I have experienced will stay with me forever. My feelings for the Russian people and this country have also changed due to this trip. I could not say anything negative about this whole operation or all the people we have meet with. Very organized. I have felt save this whole trip. Thank you for the memories. God Bless the Russian people.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2008/

Tony Mosley, USA:

“This was my first experience on snowmobiles. I was not able to perform as well as I would like. Experience would have mite me better prepared.”

/Brown bear hunt May 2007/

Grey Welhouse, USA:

“A Very good hunt. Excellent!!!”

/Brown bear hunt May 2007/

Shane Edelen, USA:

“It was a great hunt.Sergey and Yury made it a grate time.”

/Brown bear hunt April 2007/

Richard Edelen, USA:

“Thank you for a great hunt and adventure.”

/Brown bear hunt April 2007/

Gary D. Young, USA:

“I had a pleasure of hunting Kolyma and Yakutia snow sheep with KULU Safaris in September 2007 along with 6 other buddies. I was fortunate to take two great trophies #17 and #28 SCI. I have never hunted with more organized and professional group of people and I have hunted in many countries. Both Sergey and Irene Rudakov, owners of KULU Safaris, and their staff are wonderful people with amazing skills that go beyong anything I have ever expected. You will not go wrong booking your hunt KULU Safaris. You may contact me for references”

/hunted snow sheep in August-September 2007/

RG Harris, USA:

“I was very impressed with the professional approach of the entire operation. In town our needs were promptly taken care of. In the field my physical limitations were recognized and and allowed for. The concern for my safety and well being was outstanding. The only improvement would have been to have better weather!”

/hunted snow sheep in October 2007/

Michel Letourneau, USA:

“Was very surprised on friendliness and attitude of Sergey and all his employees. My hunt with another outfitter in Russia in 2002 was nowhere near what I experienced here. Sergey and Irene, you have big heart, thank you very much. You can teach other outfitters how to do their business – you are very professional.”

/hunted snow sheep in October 2007/

Bob Hattaway, USA:

“I would recommend to any of my friends that a hunt with you and your staff is a 1st class hunt. This was my fourth sheep hunt. None of the other outfitters came close to your operation.”

/hunted snow sheep in October 2007/

Todd Fry, USA:

“The best international hunt I have been a part of. KULU Safaris is an outstanding outfitter. Thank you for a great hunt! ”

/hunted snow sheep in August-September 2007/

Russell Young, USA:

“This is the first class operation – the best I have ever had – very well organized and run. Excellent staff, very good food. Spike camps with stoves were important . Thank you for the hunt of a life time!”

/hunted snow sheep in August-September 2007/

George Aylor, USA:

“Had a great hunt. Took nice bear.”

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (May, 2006)/

Charles Smith, USA:

“I had a better time than I expected. I don’t have the words to describe how everything was.”

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (June, 2006)/

Allen Bouthillier, USA:

“I had a very good hunt and was very well taken care of. My guide was very informative about what bear to shoot and when to shoot. We had bad weather but still had a successful hunt! ”

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (May, 2006)/

Delery Guillory, USA:

“Overall the total operation was fabulous and all 6 of us had a wonderful time!”

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (June, 2006)/

Larry Rudolph, USA:

“Thank you for planning and assisting while this hunt. Trophies were very good.”

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (September, 2005)/

Bruce Tatarchuk, USA:

“Excellent operation, very well run, very honest and forthcoming. I had a great time.”

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (September, 2005)/

Frank Blaha, USA:

"After 40 years of hunts over most of the North America I believe your operation to be among the best I have ever enjoyed. I will heartily recommend your company to anyone and will likely return myself."

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (September 3, 2004)/

"Very well organized. Camp facilities were very good. They do enything to please you. Guides are outstanding."

/OVIS # 24 page 69/ 

Rick Taylor, USA:

"Thank you for a great adventure. I will heartily recommend your services to all my friends. I was totally impressed.."

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (September 3, 2004)/

William Joseph Lasarso, USA:

"This hunt was more than I expected. Service before, during & after were excellent. I had complete faith in services.
I've been with a few outfitters. But Kulu is top of the line. Even small details were taken care of before time."

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (May 28, 2004)/

Douglas Gehring, USA:

"The guides and staff were very friendly. I had a great time."

/Kulu Safaris Evaluation Form (May 14, 2004)/

Reza Golsorkhi, USA:

"...On September 30, 2002, I was fortunate to take two beautiful snow sheep, each measuring 38" with 13 1/3" bases. Both rams were 12 1/2 years old.
Sergey runs an efficient organization, everything from the helicopter down to the sauna in the main camp. My guides were highlu motivated and knowledgeable. Game was plentiful.."

/OVIS # 18 (Summer 2003), page 9/ 

Gordon Rockefeller, USA:

“We ... had a wonderful experience with Kulu Safaris.
   ..This was a marvelous wilderness experience that the whole Kulu Safaris crew should be proud of. It will leave us with lifetime memories. Thanks and congratulations to the whole crew for their hard work and dedication.”

/OVIS # 17 (Spring 2003), page 29/ 

Gary Hansen, USA:

“All considered, this trip was truly an experience of a lifetime, one that will remain etched in my mind the rest of my life. We were in, what I considered, virgin country: immense in size and pristine in its beauty. ..I would also like to extend my appreciation to Sergey and Irene Rudakov of Kulu Safaris and their staff for the way they took care of the five of us, and their excellent coordination of this expedition.”

/OVIS # 16 (Winter 2003), page 47/ 

Sam Richardson, USA:

“Sure had a great time with those folks.”

/OVIS # 16 (Winter 2003), page 21/ 

Gary Rigotti, USA:

“..The vast country, its beauty, wild landscape, and knowing that no modern hunter has hunted it, was a great and exciting feeling... Thanks again for giving me this great opportunity. Sheep forever!”

/OVIS # 15 (Fall 2002), page 51/ 

Scott Ackleson, USA:

“..Our outfitter and the guides were simply outstanding. I don't know how this hunt could be any better..”

/OVIS # 15 (Fall 2002), page 51/ 

Roger Gregg, USA:

“I just returned from my September 2001 snow sheep hunt with KULU Safaris in the Magadan region of Russia…. I am very happy with my ram. He measures 37 ½” on the long side and, with his tight curl, the horns go about 5” past full curl. Really a pretty ram…. Sergey Rudakov runs a good operation, has great people, great food in the base camp, and most importantly, wants you to get your trophies… and good  ones.”

/OVIS # 12 (Winter 2002), page 3-4/

“I returned to hunt with Kulu Safaris again in August 2002. ..Sergey runs a great operation.. [He] gave me the same team of Sergey (not the owner) as the head guide and Peter, his assistant guide, that I had in 2001, and they worked just as hard as they did then.
    His base camp is so nice that I convinced my wife to go with me. I didn't get to share much time with her, as I was in spike camps, but she said she had a great time in base camp and was really catered to.
    ..I highly recommend Kulu Safaris, and intend to do a bear hunt with them in the future.”

/OVIS # 16 (Winter 2003), page 57/ 

George Kraft, USA:

“A great hunt with very friendly people”.

/Wild Sheep, winter 2001-02, hunting reports, p. 75,77/

George Kraft, USA writes about the same hunt with KULU Safaris in OVIS:
“I recently returned from a most interesting and successful hunt in eastern Siberia. My hunt for snow sheep with KULU Safaris was an extremely pleasant  surprise in many respects. The Russian people are friendly, hospitable and interested in Americans visiting their country. … A hunting experience that will remain a positive memory for a lifetime.”.

/OVIS # 12 (Winter 2002), page 33-34/ 

Harry Brickley, USA: 

“I met  Sergey & Irina Rudakov at the SCI Convention in Reno in 2000. I liked them and went hunting with them this past August. I flew from Indianapolis to Anchorage, then to Magadan via Magadan Airlines. The camps were excellent, as was the food prepared by Victoria, the wife of my guide, Nikolai. The highlight was taking a magnificent  Siberian snow sheep with Nikolai, who was very helpful. I also took a nice brown bear and the char fishing was outstanding.

Sergey met me at customs and returned me through customs. KULU Safaris is a great outfit and I would love to return some day. I certainly recommend this hunt for everyone looking for a Siberian snow sheep. My sheep measured 40 ¾ inches.”

/OVIS #10 (Summer 2001), page 3/

Wayne Knapp, USA:  

“I just completed my 14-day hunt with Sergey Rudakov. This hunt was donated and I was the successful bidder. Sergey is well-organized and employs a hard working staff. I was very delighted with all aspects of the trip except weather conditions. This made hunting most difficult but fortunately the last three days turned beautiful….

     ...All three rams I shot. All are mature; the youngest was 12, and the oldest was 15…. Again, my thanks to Sergey and his staff.”

/OVIS, #11 ( Fall 2001), page 26, 28/

Donald Smith, USA:

“I have never been on a better hunt. Sergey Rudakov is first class all the way… I would highly recommend KULU Safaris.”

/OVIS #8  (Fall 2000) page 44, 46/

Stan Torres, USA:

“I can’t say enough good things about KULU Safaris, the OUTFITTER WITH WHOM WE HUNTED. From the time we landed in Magadan till the time we departed, Sergey and Irina Rudakovs took excellent care  of us every step of the way. Base camps and spike camps were comfortable and well stocked with supplies. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable. It was obvious for me that KULU works hard to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience and they work especially hard to try to get everyone a nice trophy.  The icing on the cake for me was fishing for several varieties of salmon and trout after a  successful hunt. I definitely recommend this hunt to fellow OVIS members looking to add snow sheep to their collections.”

/OVIS #8 (Fall 2000) page 44/

Dennis Campbell, USA:

“I have found Sergey to be very professional, and he is quite knowledgeable and experienced.”

/OVIS #7 (Summer 2000), page 67/

Also read “Birthday bear”  by Grant M. Winn II in the “Safari” magazine, July/August 2001 Volume 27, number 4, pages 74-80 . He tells a fascinating story about his bear hunting with KULU Safaris in spring 2002.