5-Day and 4 Night trek into the Virachey National Park + Bamboo Rafting

Join us on an exhilarating 5-day, 4-night expedition into the heart of Virachey National Park, located in Northeast Cambodia. This vast wilderness, recognized as the largest protected area in the country, covers an astounding 3,380.57 km² (1,305.25 square miles) and extends eastward to Vietnam, northward to Laos, and westward to Stung Treng Province.

Hidden deep within some of Cambodia’s most remote jungles, Virachey remains largely unexplored and teems with natural wonders. The park’s diverse landscapes include cascading waterfalls, rugged mountain forests, sprawling upland savannahs, dense bamboo thickets, and occasional pockets of mixed deciduous forest. Visitors can immerse themselves in an array of activities—from bird watching, mountain climbing, and trekking to the unique thrill of bamboo rafting along serene rivers.

Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Virachey National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity and cultural heritage. While rare mammals such as elephants, clouded tigers, leopards, and sun bears roam these wild realms—albeit seldom seen—the forest resounds with the calls of endangered gibbons and may offer glimpses of majestic great hornbills, giant ibises, and Germain’s peacock-pheasants. This rare confluence of flora, fauna, and indigenous tradition underscores the park’s significance, a fact recognized by its designation as an ASEAN Heritage Park.

Embark on this transformative adventure, where every step into Virachey National Park is a journey of discovery—merging thrilling, rigorous trekking with cultural insights and the peaceful art of bamboo rafting, all set against one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine and untouched landscapes.

Pickup & Trekking Itinerary

Pickup Details: Before your adventure begins, please provide us with your accommodation details—including your full address, hotel name, phone number, and website—so we can easily locate your place. Thank you!

Departure & Return Schedule:

• 8:20 AM: Pickup from your Banlung hotel or, upon request, from the bus station.
• 10:20 AM: Arrival at the trekking point, where you will register and begin your trek.
• 3:30–4:00 PM: Trek concludes for the day.
• 5:00 PM: Drop-off back at your hotel.

Trekking Details:

• Daily Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours
• Distance: 15–20 km per day
• Destination: Veoun Sai District within Virachey National Park
• Difficulty Level: Medium-Hard

Detailed itinerary:

On Day 1: Departure, River Crossing & Trek Initiation

Morning Departure

• 8:30 AM – After breakfast at your Banlung hotel, you will be picked up (by tuk-tuk, motorbike, or car). Ensure your backpack is properly assembled for the adventure ahead.

Journey to Rokke’s Village

• An hour-long drive north brings you to the Sesan River.
• 9:30 AM – Board a brief 10-minute ferry crossing to the opposite bank. A subsequent 30-minute drive delivers you to Rokke’s Village, home to the indigenous Kavet tribe.

Begin the Trek

• Set off on foot from Rokke’s Village toward the O’Lalai River, where you will cross into Virachey National Park.
• Trek for 4–5 hours (circa 15 km) at a comfortable pace. Your expert tour guide and indigenous ranger will share insights on regional flora—from edible fruits and vegetables to medicinal herbs and ancient trees.

Evening Camp at Chhay Chhaynang Waterfall

• Arrive at the mesmerizing Chhay Chhaynang Waterfall, where a secluded campsite awaits with tire hammocks for your comfort.
• Unwind with a rejuvenating swim under the waterfall, then gather around a wood fire for a hearty traditional bamboo soup dinner.
• Note: During the rainy season (July–October), bug spray is provided to ward off leeches.

On Day 2: Immersion in the Verdant Canopy

Dawn Awakening

• Greet the morning with the symphony of jungle birds. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea along with a wood-fire breakfast prepared by your guide and ranger.

Midday Jungle Trek

• Embark on a robust 5–6-hour trek covering 15–20 km along well-worn jungle trails.
• Traverse dense, evergreen forest paths cleared by expert use of a machete, revealing breathtaking panoramic views beneath towering trees.
• Take a refreshing, one-hour break by a gently flowing river, where an open-fire lunch awaits and you may even take a quick wash in the cool water.

Evening Riverside Camp

• Conclude your day at a picturesque campsite near a small stream.
• Enjoy another serving of traditional bamboo soup while your ranger shares local lore and culinary traditions, closing the day under a star-lit sky by the crackle of the campfire.

On Day 3: Deep Jungle Explorations & Nocturnal Adventures

Early Morning Kickoff

• Rise with the forest’s first light. Savor your morning coffee or tea and a hearty wood-fire breakfast as you prepare for an extended trek deeper into the wilderness.

Wildlife & Flora Encounters

• Traverse trails where, if fortunes favor you, you might glimpse indigenous wildlife: gibbon herds in their natural habitat, vibrant bird species (including red-collared Germain’s peacock pheasant, woodpeckers, and flowerpeckers), and even hornbills. Occasional sightings of elusive creatures like wild dogs (dholes) or Asiatic black bears may enchant you—though such encounters are by chance only.
• Experience the marvel of the jungle’s unique flora, such as majestic dipterocarps, Sindora, and Lagerstroemia emerging along the path.

Afternoon Respite & Optional Night Trek

• Enjoy a leisurely one-hour break beside a tranquil river, where light refreshments are served.
• For those seeking extra adventure, opt for a guided night trek. With flashlights in hand, explore lesser-known corners of the forest and uncover hidden nooks, before returning to the warmth of a communal campfire.

On Day 4: Cultural Immersion & Scenic Passage

Morning Departure

• Awaken to the refreshing sounds of the jungle and fuel up with coffee or tea and a sumptuous wood-fire breakfast.
• Set out on a 4–5-hour trek (covering about 13–15 km) along established trails that offer expansive views and intimate glimpses of the forest’s splendor.

Cultural & Natural Insights

• As you traverse the beaten path, your guide will provide enriching commentary on local plants, traditional remedies, and the cultural practices of regional tribal communities.
• A scenic one-hour lunch break by the river offers both nourishment and time to absorb the panoramic beauty of your surroundings.

Evening Reflections

Reflect on the day’s journey as the trek continues through the heart of Virachey, where every step recalls the rugged beauty and historical significance of this untamed wilderness.

On Day 5: Final Trek & Bamboo Rafting Homecoming

Morning & Concluding Trek

• Begin your final day with the familiar call of the jungle, enjoying a last cup of coffee or tea and a robust wood-fire breakfast.
• Embark on one last 4–5-hour trek (approximately 15–20 km) along trails featuring awe-inspiring vistas and final encounters with the park’s natural wonders.
• Listen to the stories of ancient trees, medicinal plants, and the rich heritage of the local minority tribes as you journey towards the conclusion of your expedition.

Optional Conclusion: Return by Bamboo Rafting

• Bamboo Rafting Adventure For a unique finale, opt for a 2–3-hour bamboo raft ride on the O’Lalai River. Drift downstream as you revisit the scenic landscapes, passing through Kok Lak commune and returning to Rokk’s Village—the starting point of your trek.

Return to Banlung A motor or tuk-tuk will transfer you to the Sesan River for a final crossing. Following an approximately one-hour drive, you’ll reach your Banlung hotel by 4:00–5:00 PM.