Ratanakiri

Ratanakiri — The Last Wilderness

Ratanakiri (Province of Gems and Mountains) is Cambodia's wildest and most inaccessible province. Dense tropical forest, red laterite roads, waterfalls, a volcanic lake, and indigenous communities that preserve their traditional way of life. For adventurers, Ratanakiri is the Cambodia that will disappear in 10 years — deforestation and plantations are consuming the jungle.

Ban Lung — The Provincial Center

The provincial capital Ban Lung (approx. 30,000 inhabitants) is a dusty market town that serves as a base for excursions. Here you will find guesthouses (8–20 USD), a few restaurants, moped rentals, and local tour providers. The atmosphere is frontier-like — red earth, mopeds, playing children, blazing heat.

Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake

The Yeak Laom is the highlight of Ratanakiri and one of the most magical places in Cambodia. A perfectly round crater lake (700,000 years old), 800 m in diameter and up to 50 m deep, surrounded by dense primary forest. The water is crystal clear and emerald green — swimming is allowed and wonderfully refreshing.

The lake is a sacred place of the Tampuan indigenous people. A wooden jetty leads to the water, a hiking trail circles the lake (3 km, 45 min). Entrance: 1 USD (goes to the Tampuan community). Best in the morning (fewer visitors, mirror-smooth water).

Virachey National Park

The largest national park in Cambodia (3,325 km²) adjoins Ban Lung to the north and extends to the Laotian and Vietnamese borders. Dense tropical forest, rare wildlife (gibbons, bears, elephants — most invisible), indigenous villages.

• Day Treks: From 50 USD/person (guide + transport). Hike through jungle, to waterfalls, and indigenous villages.
• Multi-Day Treks: 2–5 days, from 80 USD/day/person. Camping in the jungle, night hikes, river crossings. Only for the physically fit — the heat and humidity are extreme.
• Booking: Only through the Virachey NP Ranger Station in Ban Lung. Guide is mandatory.

Waterfalls

• Ka Tieng Waterfall: 6 km southwest of Ban Lung. Easily accessible by moped. 7 m high, natural pool for swimming. Entrance: 1 USD.
• Cha Ong Waterfall: 8 km northwest. 25 m high, spectacular jungle waterfall. Impressive in the rainy season. Entrance: 1 USD, plus 500 m walk.
• Katieng (not Ka Tieng): 9 km southwest, the widest waterfall in the area. Popular with locals on weekends.