Ratanakiri

Ratanakiri sits at Cambodia’s northeastern corner, bordering Laos and Vietnam, and feels like a different country from the temple-touring south. The provincial capital Banlung is a red-dirt frontier town surrounded by jungle, crater lakes, and waterfalls.

Yeak Laom

The jewel of Ratanakiri is Yeak Laom — a perfectly circular volcanic crater lake surrounded by primary rainforest. The water is extraordinarily clear and the setting serene. A wooden walkway circles the lake, managed by the local Tampuan indigenous community. Swimming here is one of the most peaceful experiences in Cambodia.

Indigenous Culture

Ratanakiri is home to multiple indigenous groups — Tampuan, Kreung, Brao, Jarai — who maintain distinct traditions, crafts, and languages. Community-based tourism programs allow visitors to visit villages with local guides, contributing directly to community income.

Jungle Trekking

Multi-day treks into the jungle, guided by indigenous rangers, offer the chance to spot wildlife and spend nights in village longhouses. The forest here is among the most intact in mainland Southeast Asia.