Try to get some high altitude hiking and general time in. I went to Kyrgygstan the next month for a very similar hunt at even higher altitude and did just fine with the horses and the altitude. I don't think there's any way to prepare for the mountain ponies other than just tough it out for a couple days. Other tips - I would say absolutely have a translator or you will be completely left in the dark. After our experience with the rifle transport, I've started borrowing the guide's rifle, but that comes with it's own challenges. Nevertheless, I've made some great shots at 550 and 650 yards with my guide's rifle. Absolutely go with a very well organized and reputable outfit with all the required local contacts. This may cost more, but over time, will be worth it. Eventually your luck runs out trying to navigate this foreign hunting locations and you'll need a lifeline.
We didn't have any problems with getting the trophies back to the US. It was a lot quicker than some of the other international hunts we've done. Having done a few international hunts, I think this is something that gets overlooked a lot. An outfit that is professional will have the logistics train to get your hides/skulls back to you in a reasonable timeframe, while a discount outfitter might struggle to get your trophies delivered for various reasons.
