[ADVANCED] THE SALT TRAIL | BIDOUP NUI BA & PHUOC BINH NATIONAL PARKS

THE SALT TRAIL _ THE ECONOMIC JOURNEY OF K'HO ETHNIC GROUP

Level 2 (Advanced – 34km) | 04 nights 03 days | Group Size: 06 – 15 participants

Embark on a journey tracing the historic "Salt Trail"—an ancient trade route forged by the K'Ho people through dense jungles to the lowland plains of Ninh Thuan (Khanh Hoa now), the traditional territory of the Raglai and T'Ring ethnic groups. This expedition unravels the rich history of a traditional barter economy where ivory and animal hides were traded for life-sustaining salt. It also illuminates the profound intercultural bonds, born from legendary romances, that historically united the highland and lowland communities.

The expedition challenges trekkers to traverse dense jungle canopies and ancient moss-draped forests, eventually penetrating the core zone of Phuoc Binh National Park—a critical habitat bearing the footprints of the endangered Gaur (Bos gaurus). Throughout the trek, participants will experience stark microclimate transitions, navigating through chilling alpine fog and observing the remarkable meteorological shifts across diverse forest ecosystems.

The journey culminates in an encampment beneath the majestic canopy of centuries-old pines. Here, participants will engage with the oral histories and indigenous cultural narratives of the region’s original inhabitants. This immersive experience offers a profound sense of restoration, allowing trekkers to rest deeply within the tranquil breath of the forest and the embrace of Mother Nature.

🚐 NIGHT 1: DEPARTURE

• Gathering & Welcome: Meet at the designated departure point.

• Equipment Inspection: Our expert guides will conduct a thorough check of your trekking gear and essentials to ensure optimal safety and readiness for the journey ahead.

• Setting Off: Board the comfortable sleeper coach and depart for Da Lat city, resting overnight as the expedition begins.

🌲 DAY 1: DA LAT CITY – KLONG KLANH FOREST RANGER STATION

• Highland Awakening: Enjoy a hearty, nutritious breakfast in Da Lat, accompanied by the rich aroma of premium Central Highlands coffee to energize your spirit for the trek.

• Transfer to the Trailhead: A specialized Jeep or shuttle vehicle will transport the expedition team to the Klong Klanh Forest Ranger Station.

• Preparation & Warm-up: Engage in a guided physical warm-up and a final route briefing with our experts before officially stepping into the wild.

• Embarking on the Historic "Salt Trail": Reach the geographical border of Lam Dong and Khanh Hoa provinces—the official starting point of the trek. Here, you will trace an ancient route that once served as a vital cultural and economic nexus, bridging the highland Cil communities with the lowland T'Ring, Raglai, and Cham ethnic groups.

The Inter-Park Milestone -  Reach the defining geographical boundary that connects the majestic Bidoup - Nui Ba and Phuoc Binh National Parks.

• Immersive Alpine Trek: Navigate through mystical, moss-draped canopies and striking red maples, fully embracing the ethereal atmosphere of the chilling mountain fog.

• Wilderness Lunch at 1,800m: Rest and recharge with a revitalizing lunch beside a crystal-clear mountain stream at an elevation of 1,800 meters.

• Centuries-Old Pine Basecamp: Arrive at the campsite and settle beneath the imposing, majestic canopy of ancient pine trees that have stood for generations.

• Campfire Dinner & Nocturnal Harmony: Savor a specially prepared dinner in the heart of the forest. Gather to share songs, stories, and a profound sense of connection with the tranquil, nocturnal wilderness.

🌿 DAY 2: KLONG KLANH COMMUNE – BO LANG VILLAGE

• Sunrise Awakening & Indigenous K'Ho Coffee: Start the day by savoring a hot, freshly brewed cup of authentic K'Ho coffee. Enjoy a nutritious breakfast while taking in the serene, pastel-pink sunrise above a sea of morning clouds.

• Rare Botanical Encounter: Explore the ancient forest and discover the exceptionally rare Krempf's Pine (Pinus krempfii), an endemic flat-leaved pine species that stands as a testament to the region's unique biodiversity.

• Challenging Descent & Ecological Transitions: Navigate through rugged, demanding trails as you descend into the territory of Phuoc Binh National Park. Witness the remarkable ecological shift as the topography and vegetation drastically transform around you.

• Ancestral Valley & Riverside Lunch: Recharge with a peaceful lunch beside a mountain stream before advancing toward the Bo Lang Valley—the ancestral homeland of the indigenous T'Ring people.

• Pristine Headwaters Immersion: Unwind and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear upper reaches of the Cai River (Phan Rang), washing away the fatigue of the trek.

• Gaur Habitat Encampment & Evening Toast: Set up your final camp along the tranquil banks of the Da May River, a pristine area known as a frequent watering hole for the endangered wild Gaur. Conclude an adventurous day by the campfire with a celebratory toast of fragrant local wine.

Bữa cơm tối của cả đoàn khi về đến Làng Bố Lang

🌊 DAY 3: BO LANG VILLAGE – NINH CHU BEACH – HO CHI MINH CITY

• Jungle Symphony & Breakfast: Enjoy a final wilderness breakfast while immersing yourself in the dawn chorus and the vibrant, endless acoustic landscape of the untamed jungle.

• Valley River Crossings: Trek through the final stretch of the journey, navigating a series of meandering streams across the lush valley as you make your way toward the Phuoc Binh Forest Ranger Station.

• National Park Headquarters & Lunch: Arrive at the administrative heart of Phuoc Binh National Park to rest and enjoy a well-deserved, celebratory lunch, marking the successful completion of the trekking route.

• Coastal Retreat & Farewell Dinner: A comfortable vehicle will transfer the expedition team to the pristine coast of Ninh Chu Beach. Relish a relaxing afternoon by the ocean, followed by a savory farewell dinner to transition smoothly from the highland wilderness to the soothing sea.

• Return Journey: Transfer to the local coach terminal for a comfortable sleeper bus ride back to Ho Chi Minh City, concluding an unforgettable, culturally enriching expedition.

The Da May River – The pristine headwaters of the Cai River, a remarkable ecological highlight along our expedition route.

📌 IMPORTANT NOTES

• The expedition itinerary is subject to adjustment based on prevailing weather conditions to ensure absolute safety.

• Tour prices are exclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT).

✅ TOUR INCLUSIONS (WHAT WE PROVIDE)

• Transportation: Round-trip premium sleeper bus transfers (for departures from Ho Chi Minh City).

• Insurance: Comprehensive adventure travel insurance.

• Permits: All National Park entrance fees and environmental permits.

• Local Transfers: Two-way specialized shuttle transfers to and from the trailhead.

• Dining: All meticulously crafted, nutritious meals during the expedition.

• Hydration: Daily drinking water (1.5L per guest), alongside premium local coffee and tea.

• Personnel: Expert bilingual guides (English/Vietnamese) and dedicated safety assistants.

• Camping Gear: High-quality camping equipment (spacious tents, warm sleeping bags, insulating mats, tarps, and advanced water purification systems).

• Safety Equipment: Standardized first aid and emergency rescue kits, constantly carried by our team.

❌ TOUR EXCLUSIONS

• Personal expenses.

• Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.

• Gratuities/Tips for the guide and support team (Optional but appreciated).