VOLUNTEERING IN Cambodia

ASIA

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations. This friendly country is most famous for its stunning ancient temple of Angkor Wat but there are many other sights for volunteers in Cambodia to explore – from beautiful unspoilt coastal islands to vibrant modern cities! Bordered by Vietnam to the east, Laos to the north and Thailand to the west, it is also a fantastic base for volunteers in Cambodia to explore more of the Southeast Asia region.

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Whether you are looking to get off the beaten track trekking in the jungles of the Cardamom Mountains, immersing yourself in the bustling markets of Phnom Penh or learning more about the country’s fascinating history, Cambodia is unmissable volunteering holiday destination. The country is also home to some extraordinary animals, but with many species now endangered, there is a great need for volunteers to work on conservation initiatives in Cambodia. Pod Volunteer is an award-winning non-profit organisation helping people to volunteer in Cambodia for as little as 1 week or as long as 3 months.

You can help protect elephants by joining an active conservation team that provides a sanctuary to rescued Asian elephants.

Volunteers are needed all year round. Climate wise, Cambodia has a tropical climate and can be hot and humid all year round. Temperatures average between 23-30°C, peaking in April and May and dropping to their coldest in the dry season from December to February. The main rainy season runs from May to November but there can be tropical rain showers all year round.

At Pod Volunteer we love to travel and have visited the projects in Cambodia. Here is our insider’s view of our experiences travelling and volunteering in Cambodia…

Things we loved: Phnom Penh – watching the sunset on the river front whilst sampling the local Khmer cuisine is an unmissable experience! Temples at Siem Reap - the world’s largest Hindu temple complex draws visitors from around the world looking to visit Angkor Wat. There is much to learn about the inspiring culture and heritage, you could spend days wondering at the intricate detail on the temples. Tonle Sap – is the largest freshwater lake in South-East Asia, offers an opportunity to see communities on the floating villages who are dependent on the lake for their livelihood. History – Cambodia’s turbulent history provides a visitor with an insight into the terrible days of the Khmer Rouge.

Things we weren’t so sure about! The beach resort of Sihanoukville is overdeveloped and is heavily polluted – however the beautiful islands off the coast from Kampot and Kep are not to be missed! Travelling around the country can be slow, particularly during wet season!

Below you’ll find a summary of our volunteering projects in Cambodia which you can click through to and find out about the volunteer role, location, accommodation and costs, see lots of pictures and read volunteer reviews!

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Elephant Conservation

Elephant Conservation

Cambodia

  • Assist at a sanctuary which provides a home for rescued Asian elephants
  • Observe elephants in their natural surroundings and help support the daily running of the sanctuary
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Duration: 1 – 12 weeks

Cost from: £695 / €805 / $870

Top 5 reasons to visit and volunteer in Cambodia

  • Angkor Wat - take a tour around the incredible Kingdom of Angkor which reigned between 9th and 14th centuries, learn about the inspiring culture and heritage. See first hand the intricate detail to each of these wonderful temples, each part of the largest Hindu temple complex in the world.

  • Food - try out some of the best Cambodian cuisine; Amok, Lak Lak and noddles are always easy to find and surprisingly, French baguettes are also common, a remnant of the French colonial presence in Cambodia. Take a stroll through the local markets and enjoy the vibrant colours of the fruit and veg stalls!

  • Wildlife - take a trip to the Kratié Province along the Mekong River which is home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. Soak up the local wildlife and relax watching the sun set over the river.

  • Siem Reap - known as the gateway to the famous Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is worth a visit in its own right. A small town full of colonial charm but more recently the tourist hub. A great place to learn yoga, get your shopping done and explore the old market whilst meeting like minded travellers.

  • Phnom Penh - the capital of Cambodia. Eat at one of the delightful restaurants on the river front, take a tuk-tuk to explore the city, the King’s Palace, stroll through the parks and shops around town. Explore Cambodia’s turbulent history with visits to S-21 Prison and the Killing Fields, from the dark days of the Khmer Rouge.

Cambodia temple scupltures

Cambodia temple scupltures

Cambodia beach

Cambodia beach

Cambodia Angkor Wat

Cambodia Angkor Wat

Cambodia volunteers walking on dirt road

Cambodia volunteers walking on dirt road

Cambodia elephant

Cambodia elephant

Cambodia rural building

Cambodia rural building

Cambodia sunset

Cambodia sunset

Cambodia temple

Cambodia temple

Cambodia cow in countryside

Cambodia cow in countryside

Cambodia local carrying

Cambodia local carrying

Cambodia volunteer lighting candles in temple

Cambodia volunteer lighting candles in temple

We have long term relationships with hand-picked projects that have lasting and positive impact. We are a highly experienced and passionate team, here to support you!

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