Things to Do in Ratanakiri Province

Ratanakiri Province sits in Cambodia's remote northeastern corner, where dense jungle meets rolling hills and minority communities maintain traditions largely unchanged for centuries. This is Cambodia's wild frontier - a place where elephants still roam freely, waterfalls cascade through pristine forest, and the Khmer Rouge's final stronghold has given way to some of the country's most authentic cultural encounters. The provincial capital of Banlung serves as your base for adventures into landscapes that feel genuinely untouched, from the mystical blue waters of Yeak Laom volcanic lake to villages where animist beliefs blend seamlessly with daily life. You'll find yourself sharing meals with Tampuan, Kreung, and other indigenous groups whose hospitality is as remarkable as their intricate weaving and traditional stilted homes.

Ratanakiri's food scene centers on Banlung's handful of local restaurants serving hearty Khmer dishes alongside regional specialties like bamboo soup and wild vegetable curries. Night markets offer grilled meats, fresh spring rolls, and seasonal fruits like rambutan and dragon fruit grown in local orchards. Village homestays provide the most authentic culinary experiences, where you'll share communal meals featuring rice wine, freshly caught fish from local streams, and vegetables foraged from surrounding forest. Don't miss trying the local coffee - Ratanakiri's highlands produce some of Cambodia's best beans, often served thick and sweet in small glasses.

The dry season from November to April offers the most comfortable weather and accessible roads, though temperatures can climb uncomfortably high by March and April. Many travelers prefer the transitional months of November-December and February-March when temperatures moderate and roads remain passable. Rainy season from May to October brings lush landscapes and powerful waterfalls, but also muddy roads that can make village visits challenging. That said, the wet months offer fewer crowds and more authentic village life as tourism slows down considerably.