6-Day and 5 Night Trekking into the Phnom Veal Thom wilderness grassland + Viracheay National Park

Embark on a transformative journey through Cambodia’s largely uncharted wilderness, where nature, culture, and history converge. This expedition will lead you deep into the heart of the Phnom Veal Thom wilderness—a breathtaking montane grassland within the expansive Virachey National Park.

Virachey National Park spans approximately 3,325 square kilometers and is the largest national park in Northeast Cambodia. When combined with the adjacent protected areas in Lao PDR and Vietnam, it forms one of the largest contiguous blocks of conserved forest in Asia. Here, vast expanses of pristine forests, rolling grasslands, rugged mountains, and deep valleys remain largely undisturbed by human settlement, potentially sheltering undiscovered wildlife species.

The park is a vital refuge for iconic fauna such as tigers, elephants, and wild cattle, along with a host of threatened primates and bird species. For centuries, indigenous hill tribe communities have enriched this region with their unique customs and traditions. The Brau and Kavet peoples, who still rely on Virachey’s natural resources for their livelihood, are now actively involved in the park’s eco-tourism initiatives. Their vibrant cultural heritage and sustainable practices offer visitors rare, authentic insights into the region’s human and natural history.

Virachey also carries a poignant historical legacy through its association with the American–Vietnam War. Remnants of the infamous Ho Chi Minh Trail still traverse the park, serving as somber reminders of a turbulent past. In recognition of its outstanding biodiversity and critical conservation value, Virachey National Park was designated an ASEAN Heritage Park in 2003.

Join us on this extended trek to explore a landscape where cascading waterfalls, ancient customs, and historical echoes come together in a symphony of natural beauty and cultural richness. This expedition promises an immersive experience that will forever transform your perspective of Cambodia’s wild frontier.

Pickup Details: We offer convenient pick-up services from your hotel or any specified location. To ensure a smooth transfer, please provide the full address of your stay, including the hotel name, phone number, and website. This information will help us locate your accommodation efficiently.

Departure & Return: Enjoy a hassle-free transfer from your hotel to your destination and back, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Thank you for your cooperation!

Trek Itinerary:

• 10:20 AM: Arrive at the trekking point, complete registration, and begin your adventure.
• 3:30 – 4:00 PM: Conclude the trek for the day.
• 5:00 PM: Enjoy a convenient drop-off back at your hotel.

Trek Specifications:

• Duration: 5–6 hours per day on average
• Distance: 15–20 km per day on average

Destination: Taveng District, Viracheay National Park

• Difficulty Level: Medium-Hard

Detailed Itinerary

On Day 1: Departure, River Crossing & Cultural Connection

• Morning Pickup & Transit:
  • 8:30 AM: Begin your adventure with pickup from your Banlung hotel after breakfast.
  • Travel by tuk-tuk, motorbike, or car for approximately 1.5 hours heading to northern Banlung.
• River Crossing:
  • Arrive in the Taveng District at the SeSan River.
  • Board a ferry under the guidance of a park ranger to cross to the opposite bank.
• Cultural Immersion:
  • Upon crossing, meet the Brau minority in Tumpountoch Village.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring local gardens and rice paddies, while your guide introduces you to indigenous customs and traditional jungle knowledge.
• Overnight:
  • Camp in the heart of the forest, with a peaceful night under the stars.

On Day 2: Jungle Awakening & Mountain Trails

• Early Morning:
  • Wake up to the enchanting calls of gibbons and other jungle birds.
  • Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea and a freshly cooked breakfast by your guide.
• Trekking to Commander Trails:
  • Depart at 8:30 AM for a trek into a rugged mountain trail deep within the park.
  • Traverse through diverse habitats, keeping a lookout for native wildlife—sambar deer, Douc langurs, wild pigs, great hornbills, muntjac deer, and possibly even a gaur.
• Evening Experience:
  • Camp near a gently flowing stream to experience the magical early evening sounds and the vibrant life of the forest.

On Day 3: Into the Heart of the Jungle & Veal Thom Grassland

• Morning Rituals:
  • Start your day once more with the symphony of the jungle.
  • Savor a hearty, wood-fire breakfast accompanied by the soothing ambiance of nature.
• Midday Exploration:
  • Trek for 7–8 hours while your guide explains the significance of the giant trees and rare plant species throughout the park.
  • Make a refreshing stop at a waterfall or stream to bathe and rejuvenate.
• Destination – Veal Thom Grassland:
  • Arrive at the expansive grassland and set up camp with hammocks under the open sky.
  • Enjoy the contrast of the open grassland with the encircling jungle.

On Day 4: Grassland Wonders & Wildlife Encounters

• Early Morning:
  • Rise with the birds and listen to the calls of the wild.
  • Partake in a warm breakfast, then prepare for a day exploring the vast grasslands.
• Exploration:
  • Trek through the grassland trails, where open vistas reveal herds of primates and elusive wildlife.
  • Your guide will share insights about the flora, fauna, and traditional practices of the indigenous peoples in the area.
• Overnight:
  • Spend another night under the stars, absorbing the serene atmosphere of the grassland.

On Day 5: Deep Jungle Trekking & Immersive Nature

• Morning Departure:
  • Begin with an early breakfast prepared over a wood fire, then reorganize your pack for a more adventurous day.
  • Traverse into the denser parts of the jungle, following paths sporadically cleared with a machete.
• Nature at Its Finest:
  • Enjoy immersive 7–8 hour treks through pristine landscapes, where every twist of the trail unveils the untouched beauty of Virachey.
  • Revel in the spontaneous encounters with the forest’s vibrant wildlife and lush vegetation.
• Camp Out:
  • Settle for an overnight camp that promises the captivating sounds of nature and the promise of discovery with each illuminated moment by your campfire.

On Day 6: Final Trek, Heritage Encounter & Return

• Final Morning:
  • Greet the day with the familiar chorus of gibbons and birds, accompanied by a revitalizing breakfast from your guide.
  • Prepare for a final 4–5 hour trek that leads you toward the Taveng District—the trajectory that marks the beginning of your journey.
• Cultural and Natural goodbye:
  • As you meander along the trail, explore an ancient cemetery of the local tribe, a solemn tribute to the region’s rich historical tapestry.
  • Enjoy a leisurely one-hour lunch near a stream, taking in the final panoramic views of the jungle’s splendor.
• Return Journey:
  • Board a ferry at the SeSan River and transfer to a waiting motor or tuk-tuk to return to your Banlung hotel, arriving approximately between 5:00 and 6:00 PM