The unique region of Ratanakiri, situated in the northeast of Cambodia, is a beautifully preserved example of the country's traditional way of life. Lush bamboo forests, waterfalls, rivers and vistas towards neighbouring China compose this regions stunning landscape.

The area has avoided the trappings of modern society to the point where electricity and running water are still rare commodities to many of its villages. Witness men that still hunt with poison-darts and tattooed-faced women in this rare glimpse into a way of life rapidly in decline.

This tour is specifically designed to show travelers the best of this often inaccessible province, whilst providing comfortable and serene accommodation at the Udom Sambath Hotel and Terres Rouges lodge.

Your trip will start at the capital city of Phnom Penh from where you will be taken to the riverside town of Kratie. On-route, a stop at the prospering province of Kampong Cham, home to the third largest city in Cambodia, which offers a stark contrast to Ratanakiri's lifestyle.

A trip to the region would not be complete without seeing the Mekong River-Dolphins at Kratie. It is a rare opportunity to witness this intelligent but dwindling species, constantly under threat from human development. From Kratie, you will then head out on the region's characteristically bumpy dirt-roads to the town of Banlung.

Here, you will get to see the vast bamboo forests of the northwest and the surrounding waterfalls that form a stunning backdrop to this part of Cambodia, before moving north towards Laos and the village of Taveng. The Kroeung villages in this region show a portrait of traditional Ratanakiri life, where people make their living by hunting and farming.

Finally, stock up on shopping at Banlung Market before heading

Journey overland from the capital, Phnom Penn, via Kampong  Cham. One of the largest province-towns in Cambodia, Kampong Cham is a transport and trade hub for the area. You will also visit Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei, home to classic examples of colonial architecture, and the French established Chhup rubber plantation, ensuring that the overland journey is as interesting as the rest of the tour. From Kratie take a local ferry to the charming island of Koh Trong, your base for the evening.

Overnight at Sala Koh Trong, Kratie

Enjoy a breakfast of local food before departing for Kampie by boat for a chance to see the rare Mekong River-Dolphins. You will then return to town for lunch before continuing to the sleepy capital of the province, Banlung.

After a long day's travel, enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel.

Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge, Ratanakiri Province

Today you will leave by jeep on a bumpy road to discover the waterfalls that surround the area, including the stunning Teuk Cha. Then, head northwest across lush bamboo forests to the village of Voeune Saï, a Chinese enclave of Cambodian territory where most villagers don't even speak Khmer. If possible, you will take a boat (or go by jeep) to the village of Ka Choan, home to some superb totems.

Return to the lodge for dinner.

Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge, Ratanakiri Province

Heading further north towards Laos, you reach the village of Taveng. First crossing Veyrum Plang, a round lava field in the forest, you will then come to what the locals call the "Tiger caves". The further north you go, the more beautiful the forest becomes. In some Kroeung villages, depending on the season, you might discover the impressive stilted bachelor-houses. Depending on the time and the state of the dirt road, a picnic lunch will be provided before exploring the nearby villages.

The day is completed by a trip to the volcanic lake of Yeark Laom, a superb place surrounded with pristine rainforest, where you can swim or take a walk around the lake. Enjoy your final dinner here as you reflect upon your incredible journey to the remote northwest.

Overnight at Terres Rouges Lodge, Banlung.

An early-morning departure for a quick tour of Banlung market marks the end of the tour, followed by a long overland-transfer directly back to Phnom Penh.