North – Eastern Cambodia Explorer 5 days

We will depart Phnom Penh in the early morning and make our way to Kratie. On the way, we arrive in Kampong Cham province and take a trip to the twin hills of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei, (Men’s Hill and Women’s Hill). Move on to Kampong Cham town which is located on the riverside where colonial buildings line the roads. Take a look around town and enjoy views of the Mekong River. Head across the Mekong River to Chhup, Cambodia’s biggest rubber plantation. Continue north to Kratie. Stay overnight at Oudom Sambath Hotel.

Following breakfast in a local restaurant, you will take a boat on the Mekong River to the Kampi area which is the habitat of the endangered Irrawaddy River dolphins. Try to spot one of these elusive animals while enjoying the beautiful river views. Return to Kratie for lunch. In the afternoon, we carry on by road to Banlung, the capital of Rattanakiri province. Although the road has improved greatly in recent years, the final part is unpaved. Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge.

After you breakfast we will take a full tour of Banlung and its surroundings. Take a trip to discover the surrounding waterfalls, including the impressive Teuk Cha On. Travel through bamboo forests to the village of Voeune Saï, a Chinese enclave where most villagers don't even speak Khmer. This scenic village is located on the Sé San River and the views of the surrounding countryside are beautiful. Next up, you’ll enjoy a boat ride upstream to visit numerous Tampoun villages. In this village they still maintain a traditional lifestyle and are untouched by the outside world. Stop at the village of Ka Choan, with some of the most splendid and outstanding totems. Return by boat and road to Terres Rouges Lodge arriving early in the evening. Dinner will be served at the lodge. Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge.

When you have had your breakfast, we will move north the Lao border to visit Taveng village. See Veyrum Plang, a lava field in the forest. Nearby is a small waterfall surrounded by Tiger’s Cave. Continue heading north through more spectacular forest and stop at numerous Kroeung villages, a native hill tribe of Ratanakiri. See some stilted bachelor houses which are destroyed when a man marries and built again by younger men. Lunch will be a picnic at a chosen location. Next go exploring the nearby villages and visit the volcanic lake of Yeak Loam, a beautiful area surrounded by a lush rainforest. Take some time to swim in the refreshing waters or explore the area further. Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge.

After breakfast, take a tour of Banlung market for shopping before you are transported back to Phnom Penh. End of North - Eastern Cambodia Explorer.