Once known as the Khmer empire, Cambodia is perhaps best known for its monumental temples, especially that of Angkor Wat – finalist in the election of the new 7 wonders of the world in 2006. It is without doubt a country of incredible beauty, scattered with these temples, fertile rice fields and a rich and interesting history. For this reason it is unsurprising that Cambodia has taken a firm place on the tourist map. Having been a protectorate of France for almost 100 years, the country gained its independence in 1953. Following this however, Cambodia experienced years of civil war, turmoil and political corruption, as well as suffering from its involvement in the Vietnam war. Despite holding this dark history, Cambodia really is an extraordinary country and has prevailed due to what has been described as the unbreakable spirit of the Cambodian people. The people here are known for their friendliness and their smiles.
Overview of Volunteer Programs in Cambodia
WHY VOLUNTEER IN CAMBODIA
Volunteering in Cambodia offers a unique and transformative experience that combines cultural immersion with meaningful impact. By dedicating your time and skills to volunteer work in this captivating country, you’ll not only contribute to local communities but also broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of global issues. Cambodia’s rich history, warm hospitality, and diverse landscapes create a backdrop for personal growth and lasting memories.
Through this hands-on involvement, you’ll witness the positive change you bring about and develop a sense of empowerment and purpose. Moreover, you’ll have the chance to explore Cambodia’s ancient temples, bustling markets, and serene countryside during your free time, enhancing your experience beyond volunteering. By participating in volunteer work in Cambodia, you’ll make a meaningful difference and create lasting connections, all while embracing a new culture and expanding your global perspective.
HIGHLIGHTS OF VOLUNTEERING IN CAMBODIA
Here are just a few of the best things about volunteer work in Cambodia:
- Discover ancient temples, both famous and hidden, scattered across the country, allowing you to marvel at intricate architecture and connect with Cambodia’s spiritual heritage.
- Dive into Cambodian cuisine, trying traditional dishes like amok and sampling street food, while learning about the cultural significance of food in the local context.
- Your volunteer work contributes to important social causes, whether it’s improving healthcare access, empowering women, supporting vulnerable populations, or fostering positive change in Cambodian society.
- Volunteering in Cambodia is a journey of personal growth, empathy, and self-discovery. The experience will challenge your perspectives, broaden your horizons, and leave you with lasting memories and connections.
Our Cambodia Volunteer Projects
Browse all of our volunteer projects in Cambodia below. If you can’t find a suitable volunteer program, check out our main program finder to continue your search for volunteering beyond Cambodia.
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Greenway School Volunteer in Cambodia
Greenway School Volunteer in Cambodia
Every day, more than 400 children arrive at the Greenway School in Samraong to attend one of the two sessions offered. All of them are eager to learn and are extremely appreciative of those who can assist them with their educational development. The school was designed, built and completely operated by people like you, under the guidance of our native Cambodian manager and teacher. Students attend a regular public school for three hours per day, where they don’t get the chance to learn a lot of English. The public school shifts are divided into a morning group and an afternoon group, giving the children a chance to come to our school during their free time (e.g. the morning group can attend
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Construction Effort Volunteer in Cambodia
Construction Effort Volunteer in Cambodia
On this project, you will get your hands dirty with construction assignments. Our main construction focus is working at a local school, which has been allocated as an education resource for the children of poor villagers. This school was built with the support and sweat equity of helpers like yourself, along with skilled local tradesmen. Today, more than three hundred children attend classes here daily. Despite previous efforts, the work here is far from done and we continue to construct new buildings, pathways, toilets, walls, drainage systems for rain run-off, etc. to meet the needs of all those using the facility. Those with an artistic talent can help decorate the walls by creating mural
Location
About Samraong
Samraong, which name translates from Khmer into “impenetrable jungle”, is a town located in northwestern Cambodia, close to the border with Thailand. You will be located in a small, rural village located in the outskirts of town. This remote location will give you a taste of what rural Cambodia looks and feels like, while at the same time allowing you to explore some of Cambodia’s highlights, as Siem Reap is located only two hours away.
Dates & costs
The World Endeavors Volunteer in Cambodia program is flexible in duration, and can be tailored to last between 1 to 12 weeks. Admissions are rolling, and World Endeavors volunteers can choose when they would like to start their program. Due to holidays, traditional vacation schedules, and seasonal work availability, there might be better times than others to volunteer at a specific location or in a specific project.
When you are ready to start planning your volunteer trip to Cambodia, contact us. Our experienced advisors will help you sort through any timing considerations unique to your destination or your volunteer project.
Please wait until after you are accepted into the program and you have received the confirmed arrival and departure dates before you book your flight.
Eligibility
- Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, though exceptions to this age requirement may be made on a case-by-case basis.
- Successful volunteers are hardworking, flexible, and open to truly immersing themselves in the culture.
- Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.
Housing
Volunteers stay in a shared volunteer house and stay in shared rooms by gender. Three meals a day on weekdays (two on weekends) are included during your stay. During your stay the meals will be typical Cambodian style, which includes plenty of rice and noodle dishes. On a few occasions there may be meat, but generally speaking there is no western food served. Vegetarian options are available.
Every World Endeavors Volunteer Project Includes
Our carefully designed international volunteer programs encompass everything necessary for your success and well-being while abroad.
YOUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
- Volunteer project customized to match your interests and goals and meet community needs
- Year-round program availability
- Flexible durations from 2 to 12 weeks
PEACE OF MIND
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
- 24/7 emergency travel assistance
ACCOMMODATION
- Host family or shared volunteer house, depending on destination
- Vetted and hand-selected with quality and safety in mind
- 2 to 3 meals per day included
PREPARATION AND SUPPORT
- Airport pickup
- Pre-arrival and on-site orientation
- 24/7 local support
TEAM OF EXPERTS
- Dedicated one-on-one advisor
- Local on-site coordinator
- Volunteer project supervisor
RE-ENTRY AND CAREER INTEGRATION
- Re-entry handbook and support
- Assistance with resume updates
- World Endeavors Alumni Network
HEALTH & SAFETY
When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety.
We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.
WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN CAMBODIA
Cambodia is a beautiful and culturally rich country with a variety of activities to enjoy during your spare time. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing, here’s a list of things to do in Cambodia:
- Explore Angkor Wat: Visit the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to witness the stunning ancient architecture and learn about Cambodia’s history.
- Relax on the beaches: Head to the coastal towns of Sihanoukville or Kep to enjoy the sandy beaches, clear waters, and fresh seafood.
- Take a boat trip to Tonle Sap Lake: Visit the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and experience the floating villages and unique ecosystem.
- Wildlife experiences: Explore the wildlife sanctuaries like Koh Kong, Mondulkiri, or the Cardamom Mountains to encounter elephants, gibbons, and various bird species.
Available Volunteer Project types
Here are the available Volunteer Abroad project types. Don’t panic if you don’t see your preferred project type listed! Our advisors are proud of their ability to find great volunteer projects in interesting locations and will be able to match you to the best project. Contact World Endeavors today to find out more.
How to choose the best volunteer program
Choosing your volunteer program is easy when you evaluate your priorities. Follow these steps to guide you toward your ideal program.
Explore a New Career
Interning abroad offers a great opportunity to explore your professional and personal interests, and help define your career path. Peruse our internship fields and past examples to find the best fit.
Choose Your Dream Destination
Finding a meaningful way to combine interning and travel to your dream location is a big incentive. Carefully consider which destinations suit your interests and international internship goals.
Improve Language Skills
Immersing yourself in a language-rich environment is the ultimate method for developing fluency. If language-learning is your goal, favor destinations that use your language of choice.
Fit your budget
Explore scholarships and financial aid to determine if these may impact your destination options. Consider the overall cost of the program and cost of living in-country to identify the optimal match.
Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.
Recent Volunteer Abroad Testimonials
Cambodia FAQs
Is Cambodia a Developing Country?
Cambodia is considered a developing country due to its low Human Development Index. This index measures life expectancy, education, and per capita income. The country has a high poverty rate. However, according to the World Bank, Cambodia sees prospects for a growing economy with a 5.2% increase in 2022.
What is Cambodia Known for?
Cambodia is known for its breathtaking ancient temples, such as the famous Angkor Wat temple, and its rich cultural heritage. It is also known for its expansive natural beauty, from its beautiful beaches to its lush jungles and diverse wildlife, as well as its vibrant nightlife and tasty cuisine.
Is Cambodia Safe for Travel?
Cambodia is generally safe, but caution is needed. It has improved safety, stable politics, and tourism growth. Petty theft and scams can occur in crowded areas. Secure belongings, be cautious at night, follow laws, and check travel advisories before visiting.
Where is Cambodia Located?
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, in the southern part of the Indochinese Peninsula. Thailand borders it to the west and northwest, Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east and the Gulf of Thailand to the south.
What Language do They Speak in Cambodia?
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, often referred to as Cambodian. Khmer is the country’s most widely spoken language in government, education, the media, and daily communication. While Khmer is the dominant language, some Cambodians also speak other languages and dialects. English has gained popularity as a second language, especially among the younger generation and in urban areas.
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World Endeavors volunteers support communities in several destinations in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Oceania. Our programs are located in a variety of sites, including urban and rural, economically developed and developing, and English-speaking and non-English speaking.
How to apply for a Volunteer Abroad Program
You’ve decided to volunteer abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. We can’t wait to get you on your way!
STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK
Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.
STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.
STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE
Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!
STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!
You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready. It’s time to PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE!