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Cambodia

Volunteer programmes in Cambodia

From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and the temples of Angkor, volunteer in Cambodia: help renovate education centres, teach or work with small businesses.

2 programmes in this country

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Volunteer Programs in Cambodia

Cambodia is a country of plains and rivers that lies amid important trade routes, linking China to India and Southeast Asia. Cambodia is actually considered one of the most biodiverse places in the world with diverse ecosystems, plants and animals. The country features fertile plains, mountains, and the famous Mekong River, one of the longest in the world. Cambodia is home to some iconic animal species such as Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, clouded leopards and Irrawaddy dolphins. The Cardamom Mountains and Virachey National Park in particular host high levels of biodiversity.

Cambodia has extensive forests, covering nearly 60% of the country and providing necessary services such as biodiversity conservation, water regulation, carbon sequestration and more. However, Cambodia also has one of the highest rates of deforestation in the world as a result of illegal logging, agriculture and development and infrastructure projects.

The predominant religion in Cambodia is Theravada Buddhism, which heavily influences the local culture. The Angkor Archaeological Park is home to the ruins of the Khmer Empire and Angkor Wat, found at the centre of the park, is the largest religious monument in the world and is sometimes considered to be the 8th wonder of the world.

Good to know before you go

Visa
Participants can obtain a one-month tourist visa (US$20) on arrival at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports or at land border posts, or in advance on the official site. It is possible to extend the visa at the immigration department, located opposite Phnom Penh airport: US$35 for 1 month and US$65 for 3 months.
Health
Please check with your doctor or a travel clinic which vaccinations you need for your destination. You can also find up-to-date health advice for each destination on the Institut Pasteur website.

Our programmes in Cambodia

About the destination

Advice before volunteering in Cambodia

Although English may be spoken in urban and tourist areas, learning some basic Khmer phrases will definitely be very useful in connecting with the local communities as well as in showing respect for the local culture. Being culturally sensitive and respecting local traditions and religious practices will benefit your experience as well.

Be sure to look after your health and safety both before you leave and when you arrive at the project. Check with your doctor and the Pasteur Institute for any recommended vaccines and medications. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

Is it safe to volunteer in Cambodia?

The projects are all very safe and there is support, guidance and access to emergency aid 24/7. Nevertheless, you should always exercise caution when in an unfamiliar area. Petty theft and tourist scams can also occur, especially in urban and tourist areas. Take any recommended health and safety precautions as well.

Requirements to volunteer in Cambodia

In order to volunteer in Cambodia, you must be 18+, be proficient in English, have a valid passport and have travel insurance.

Do I need a visa to volunteer in Cambodia?

You do need a visa to volunteer in Cambodia. It is very easy to obtain one at the airport when you arrive. A one-month tourist visa costs $20 USD and can be extended for 1 or 3 months at an additional cost. If you prefer, you can also get the visa in advance on the official site.

Volunteer opportunities in Cambodia

Discover volunteer programmes in Cambodia. Going on a humanitarian trip to Cambodia means working with local communities, but also discovering a welcoming culture and extraordinary landscapes. Our partner organisations are based in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, the historical cradle of the country and the temples of Angkor. There are opportunities to help renovate and construct buildings such as education centres. There are also programmes focused more on working with the local communities such as teaching or working with small businesses.

So, why not you?Travel to be useful, on ground we know.Find my programme

Line drawing: a beach and its turtle, a mangrove, two backpackers, a school on a hillside, a giraffe and an elephant under an acacia