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Day 1: Phnom Penh - Kratie
Depart from Phnom Penh this morning for the drive to Kratie.
After two hours, arrive in Kampong Cham province and visit the twin hills of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei, meaning ‘Men’s Hill’ and ‘Women’s Hill’ in the Khmer language. Continue to Kampong Cham town, a riverside town with colonial buildings lining the streets. Stroll around town and enjoy the views of the Mekong River.
Drive across the Mekong River to Chhup, Cambodia’s largest rubber plantation for a brief visit, and continue on northwards to Kratie.
Overnight at Oudom Sambath Hotel, Kratie
Day 2: Kratie – Banlung
This morning, after breakfast in a local restaurant, travel by boat along the Mekong River to the Kampi area. This area is home to the endangered Irrawaddy River dolphins and while enjoying the beautiful river views, keep your eyes open for a chance to spot one of these elusive animals.
Return to Kratie for lunch and this afternoon continue by road to Banlung, the capital of the Rattanakiri province. Although the road has improved greatly in recent years, the last 120km to Banlung is unpaved and bumpy and takes 4-5 hours.
Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge, Ratanakiri Province
Day 3: Banlung and The Tanpoun Territory
A full day excursion today explores the natural surroundings of Banlung.
Travel on a bumpy road to discover the surrounding waterfalls, including the impressive Teuk Cha On. Continue northwest, crossing through bamboo forests to the village of Voeune Saï, a Chinese enclave on Cambodian territory where most villagers don't even speak Khmer. The scenic village is located on the left bank of the Sé San River and the views of the surrounding countryside are beautiful.
After visiting the village, a short boat trip takes you upstream to visit the number of Tampoun villages. This hill tribe maintains a way of life and traditions that are untouched by the modern world, including the making of funeral statuary. Stop at the village of Ka Choan, home to some of the most superb and striking totems.
Return by boat and road to Terres Rouges Lodge arriving early this evening. Dinner is served at the lodge.
Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge, Ratanakiri Province
Day 4: Banlung and The Kroeung Territory Today head north toward the Lao border to the village of Taveng. Cross Veyrum Plang, a round lava field in the forest. A few steps away there is a small waterfall (in the rainy season only) surrounded by the “Tiger’s Cave”. Resume the drive north through more spectacular forest and stop at several Kroeung villages, another hilltribe native to the Ratanakiri area. In some Kroeung villages, depending on the season, you may discover some quite impressive bachelor houses built on very high stilts. When a young man has become head of a family, these houses are destroyed before being raised again by younger men in the following season. Depending on the time and the state of the dirt road, a picnic spot will be chosen for lunch time before exploring the nearby villages. This afternoon, visit the volcanic lake of Yeak Loam, a superb place encircled with pristine rainforest. Swim in the refreshing, clean water, take a walk around the lake or relax on the shore and enjoy the pristine natural surroundings. Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge, Ratanakiri Province
Day 5: Ratanakiri - Phnom Penh Depart early this morning a quick tour of the Banlung market- which is filled with local produce and handicrafts- then a long overland-transfer to Phnom Penh. |
