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Overview of Volunteer Programs in Cambodia

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.

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.

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.

First Week: $3,390 | Each Additional Week: $1,490

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.

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.

SEARCH

Recent Volunteer Abroad Testimonials

Nadia SVolunteer in Argentina

I did a volunteer program in Argentina and I had a wonderful time! I loved the organization that I was placed with and I received great support from start to finish by the World Endeavors team. The program has such great flexibility when it comes to start/finish dates, location options and volunteer opportunities; it's gave me the ability to truly make the experience my own. I'd highly recommend it and will definitly be doing it again.

Autumn RVolunteer in Costa Rica

Amazing experience from start to finish! Everyone involved in the process both here in the states and while abroad was fantastic and readily available when I had any questions!

Arielle TVolunteer in Fiji

I loved every bit of it. I thought it was perfectly balanced between work and having time to go off and explore and hang out with friends I made. I loved the program coordinator, who was one of the ones staying at the house and went off to school with us. I didn’t really have any expectations going in but was completely blown away.

Shannon MVolunteer in Ghana

The World Endeavors program allowed me to venture into a culture and community other than my own and gain the world of experience by doing so. Never in a million years would I have imagined traveling and meeting such amazing souls, and seeing the world through different eyes. I am grateful for the opportunity, and encourage any and all persons to take a trip no matter how long with the program. The advisors are with you every step of the way and will be sure to have u prepared before departure and while you are in your country of choice.

Sara PVolunteer in India

This summer I went to Jaipur, India, to work in a lower income neighborhood with women and children to better their conditions. The experience has been incredible both on the professional side and on the emotional one. The whole experience has fullfilled my soul with many memories and much more knowledge! Thanks to World Endeavors which has helped me with every single detail before, during and after my trip!

Jay CVolunteer in Nepal

After Culture Week, I have been at the monastery for a week. So far, I am having a great time. I have been teaching, taking part in daily rituals, and learning about Buddhism and its philosophical endeavors. It has been lovely!

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!