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Volunteer Programs in Cambodia

Cambodia is home to over 15 million people and the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat. Wat’s more impressive than that? A lot, apparently. This Southeast Asian nation also boasts ornate temples, beaches, and deliciously spicy noodles. Cambodia has been getting back on its feet ever since the Khmer Rouge takeover in the 1970’s, so it now offers many volunteer opportunities in education, NGO work, and microfinance projects. Those who choose to volunteer in Cambodia will learn the country’s tumultuous past and find out how it has shaped the present, while getting to know locals who will no doubt impart their wisdom about overcoming the toughest challenges in life.
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83 Volunteer Programs in Cambodia

Angkor Wat - Kaya
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Kaya Responsible Travel

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Teaching English in Rural Cambodia

Volunteer abroad with Kaya and help make quality education access...

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Impact Gap Year
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Impact Gap Year

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Cultural Explorer Gap Year

Take on an 8-month trip of adventure, community service, and comm...

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

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GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

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International Medical Aid (IMA)

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Advanced Opportunities in Physical Therapy/Pre-PT with IMA

International Medical Aid's (IMA) Physiotherapy Internships were created for aspiring and established physical therapists. Designed by IMA, a not-for-profit organization founded at Johns Hopkins University, this program bridges the gap between academic study and practical, hands-on experience in some of the most underserved regions of East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Whether you're an undergraduate, a graduate student, or a practicing clinician, our internships offer a platform to hone your skills and make a tangible difference in the health and well-being of communities in need. Our commitment extends beyond healthcare delivery; we immerse you in the local culture and breathtaking landscapes through adventure-filled programs, guided by experts who ensure a safe and enriching experience. Join us in shaping a healthier future for underserved populations while advancing your career through invaluable clinical exposure and graduate school admissions support. Embark on an IMA physiotherapy internship and embrace the opportunity to grow professionally and personally, contributing meaningfully to global health initiatives.

Gapforce

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Southeast Asia Explorer with Gapforce

Combine adventure travel and volunteering in this awesome 8-week journey to three of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful destinations: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam! Take part in conservation and community-based projects, further enriched with traditional backpacking. From the bustling cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai to the roots amongst Angkor Wat ruins, this Southeast Asia Explorer adventure is the perfect first-time trip if you want to set out on one of the world’s most iconic travel routes! This program is for anyone looking to volunteer and backpack through Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations. No prior experience is required, although the minimum age is 18.

Roots Interns

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Education Program Development Internship in Cambodia

Embark on a journey to Cambodia and join a comprehensive social impact program to uplift communities. Experience firsthand the process of designing educational initiatives within a nonprofit context, all while helping children and their families to break the chains of poverty. This internship opportunity immerses you within a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing poverty and narrowing the socio-economic divide in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Operating through their educational center, REACH Siem Reap administers a variety of educational schemes that empower children with essential life skills essential for securing equitable employment opportunities. Your job will be to develop and maintain these educational programs - classroom activities and working behind the scenes, while focus will be on curriculum development. You’ll spend time creating educational resources, measuring progress, and establishing partnerships with other NGOs. This multifaceted experience will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges associated with managing nonprofit education initiatives, whilst granting you insight into the process of creating sustainable social transformation.

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Projects Abroad

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Volunteering in Cambodia with Projects Abroad

Cambodia is a must visit destination in South East Asia and an excellent place to volunteer abroad. Projects are available for anyone interested in volunteering in the developing world, whether you are on a gap year, summer vacation, or career break. Projects Abroad is based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's spirited and charming capital city, and in Siem Reap, the gateway to the Angkor Wat temples. In both locations volunteers live together in shared apartments close to the city centers. We offer a variety of projects in Cambodia such as Care, Teaching, Medicine & Healthcare, Conservation & Environment, Microfinance, Journalism, Human Rights, and a Culture & Community project. Volunteers ages 16-19 have the opportunity to join us on one of our High School Specials. These projects are structured and supervised. Volunteers follow a daily itinerary, including a weekend excursion. We currently offer Care & Community, Conservation & Community, and Medicine teen projects in Cambodia.

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Love Volunteers

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Community Development Program in Cambodia

This crucial program works with communities in rural Cambodia, where the people suffer greatly from human rights abuses, discrimination, poverty, health issues, and low education levels. The Community Development Program aims to work with these communities to build a fairer, more egalitarian society, reducing poverty and building knowledge and confidence. Volunteers work on meaningful programs, including access to education for marginalized communities; food security; asset creation; disaster risk control; and adapting to climate change. They may visit partner communities and help organize events and training sessions to improve current situations. This is a massive undertaking and various projects and initiatives are underway to help local Cambodians achieve a fairer society. This program helps disadvantaged communities, offering volunteers who truly want to help make a tangible change in the lives of marginalized people.

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GVI

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Volunteer Teaching to Buddhist Monks in Cambodia

Cambodia is a country in South East Asia and is famed for its tropical beaches and a rich spiritual history. Our teaching volunteers in Cambodia get a chance to teach English in this idyllic setting, at the meeting of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. On this program, we join efforts with local partner organisations to assess the needs of the community before setting up any our projects. Volunteers will teach English to Buddhist monks and the local children from the local community. We aim to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goal #4 – Quality Education.

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Volunteering Journeys

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Medical Electives and Internships Abroad

Sign-up for our medical volunteering programs abroad if you are a medical or healthcare student who is aspiring for a medical career but needs real-time training and mentoring. You don’t necessarily have to have a medical degree, as requirements are different for each program. There are even pre-med volunteer abroad programs specifically for school leavers who are considering studying medicine in the future. We also offer customised placements for those seeking medical electives or medical internships abroad. Most of our medical electives abroad placement require that you spend 5-7 hours at our partner hospital or clinic as an observer of the daily routines of medical staff. You will be assigned a doctor or a department who will mentor you and may call upon you to assist with basic tasks such as taking vitals and treating minor wounds under the supervision of the local doctors. Our medical electives are offered in developing countries such as Philippines, Vietnam, India, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Peru and Costa Rica.

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Volunteer World

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Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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Pacific Discovery

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Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia Gap Semester

Explore Southeast Asia on a 10-week journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam—where travel becomes transformation. Volunteer at ethical elephant sanctuaries, trek to remote mountain villages, explore ancient temples, and engage with communities through meaningful, culturally respectful exchange. This program combines adventure, service, and immersion to help you grow personally and globally. Learn traditional crafts, share meals with host families, and experience resilience and hospitality in every community. Conservation work, ethical travel practices, and local partnerships ensure your impact is responsible and real. With leadership training, guided reflection, and mentorship built into the experience, you'll return more confident, connected, and prepared for what’s next. Whether you're taking a gap year, earning credit, building your resume, or seeking clarity and purpose, this journey meets you where you are—and helps you grow beyond it. Travel deeper. Grow bolder. Reach out to Learn More!

Globalteer

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Volunteer at an Elephant Sanctuary in Cambodia

The project is dedicated to helping the domestic elephant population in Cambodia and conserving their habitat. The project primarily works with the tribal Bunong peoples to help them, help their elephants. The end goal is the improvement of the welfare and living conditions of the elephants and to provide a sustainable income for the mahouts (elephant keepers) and their families. Volunteers work 5 days each week, collaborating with mahouts who always accompany the elephants. Duties include: * Learning about the project and the elephants * Learning how to be around elephants * Walking the elephants into the forest to forage The elephants of Cambodia need help, there is little education on the care of these domesticated animals and few possibilities for veterinary assistance when required. The project provides vital jobs for the local population and care for their elephants. Mondulkiri is being rapidly deforested and the project protects an area of "elephant forest" for the local population and the creatures that inhabit the area. The basic fact is the more funding raised, the more forest can be protected for the future.

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Carpe Diem Education

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Southeast Asia Semester | Carpe Diem Education Gap Year

A region accentuated by the colorful robes of Buddhist monks, the vivid greens of rice fields and jungle forests, and the cultural diversity of hill tribe communities—this is the ultimate Southeast Asia semester. Each country offers a unique cultural experience unto itself, and each faces the challenge of reconciling urban expansion and industrialization with indigenous land rights, free movement of nomadic peoples, and equal access to resources. This semester, walk among ancient temples, traverse mountainous jungles, and explore the clear blue water of Thailand’s beaches. You’ll explore tradition, globalization, and human rights against the backdrop of two of Asia’s most complex nations. Immerse yourself in community life through homestays and visits to remote villages. Emerge with your self-awareness and perspective forever altered. 2025: CLOSED Spring 2026: February 25 - May 6 Fall 2026: September 24 - December 4

Involvement Volunteers International

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Rural School Teaching in Samraong, Cambodia

Participate in an amazing village school project that started in 2012 and was completely built by volunteers under the supervision of local management with in-depth knowledge of the local challenges and opportunities. Providing free education, the school now holds over 200 children from nearby villages who eagerly rely on the support and care provided by the many volunteers and local staff which make this place so special. Students attend regular public schools where their opportunities to learn English are limited. These public schools operate in shifts, with one group attending in the morning and the other in the afternoon. This schedule allows children to attend our school during their free time—those in the morning group can join our afternoon sessions, and vice versa. What sets our school apart is that the children attend voluntarily, and they genuinely enjoy their time here. Samraong is found north of Siem Reap, on the border with Thailand. You can reach the rural village in around 4 hours by car, but it may take longer during the rainy season. This rural location allows greater cultural immersion while living like a local and gaining a deeper travel experience.

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World Endeavors

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Volunteer in Cambodia with World Endeavors

World Endeavors offers exciting programs that allow participants to experience Cambodia while contributing to the community in a meaningful way. Volunteers can choose from a variety of immersive, unique, and rewarding community engagement projects, including Temple Conservation, Mangrove Conservation, or teaching children from impoverished backgrounds at a remote school. Once known as the Khmer Empire, Cambodia is perhaps best known for its monumental temples, especially Angkor Wat. It is a country of incredible beauty, scattered with these temples, fertile rice fields, and a rich and interesting history. Following its independence from France, Cambodia experienced years of civil war, turmoil, and political corruption, as well as suffering from its involvement in the Vietnam War. Despite this dark history, Cambodia is an extraordinary country and has prevailed due to what has been described as the unbreakable spirit of the Cambodian people.

Rustic Pathways

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Cambodia Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

Lush jungles and picturesque landscapes await! Cambodia’s unique mix of contemporary charm creates the perfect stage for the perfect adventure! We offer transformative journeys that combine cultural immersion with service learning. Highlights include exploring the majestic Angkor Wat, participating in community service projects, witnessing the resilience of the Khmer people, visiting historical sites, and experiencing vibrant traditions. Floating Village Service Expedition (14-18 years old): All aboard the Rustic Pathways boat! We’re exploring the Mekong River, staying in floating homes with homestay families, and working alongside professionals to repair and build houses for the community.

FutureSense Foundation

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Global Leadership Programme - FutureSense Foundation

Length: 4-6 months | Intakes: January 2026 Join the Global Leadership Programme, designed to provide you with hands-on experience supporting the work of an international development charity. We are looking for passionate graduates, who are keen to learn about global challenges, work with youth and define their own purpose. After an initial period of training, you will be placed in one of our overseas hubs as a Group Mentor and Project Implementor, you will be supporting our in-country team through coordinating group projects and supporting our project participants on their journey to becoming global citizens. Your days will be filled with exciting challenges and fulfilling experiences, including: 1. Coordinating and delivering impactful project activities with our local partners. 2. Embark on a leadership role as you guide your group of project participants through immersive and exciting cultural activities. 3. Engage your group in reflective discussions and interactive sessions to foster personal growth. 4. Reporting on the progress and success of all international project participants and community development project delivery activities.

Bright Light Volunteers

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Global Service Learning Program

Learn, serve, and lead with Bright Light Volunteers in a country of your choice. Our Global Service Learning (GSL) program is designed for passionate middle and high school students, exposing them to various aspects, including cultural and social, of their host community. Participants not only broaden their knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of local, national, and global issues. They gain insight into the interdependency and interconnectedness of people and communities, becoming equipped to act responsibly and effectively toward a more just and peaceful world. Additionally, they develop a range of skills outside a conventional classroom environment. If you’re interested in joining our movement and becoming a global citizen, get in touch with us today for more information.

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Cambodia

Locations

Cambodia’s geographic diversity means volunteer placement locations range from large cities to rural areas. Regardless of location, Cambodia is brimming with possibilities to lend a helping hand (or two) while exploring old temples, large tree roots, and timeless towns.

Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital and former hub of both French colonialists and the Khmer Empire. When they aren’t busy volunteering, volunteers can take a stroll along the city’s riverfront and visit the Silver Pagoda or the National Museum, which houses artifacts from all over the country. Better yet, grab a mini buddha souvenir at the Russian Market, then spend a sombre afternoon exploring the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Things have cheered up since the Khmer Empire, so the Killing Fields have turned into a peaceful place that holds a special memorial every May. Don’t forget to finish up every day of volunteering in Phnom Penh with some sticky rice and a glass of fresh coconut milk!

Siem Reap is the entrance town to the famous Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and a World Heritage Site. Check out the colonial and Chinese-style architecture in the Old French Quarter and the Old Market. Don’t miss the Landmine museum, which holds a collection of mines, mortars, and weaponry; a true blast from the past that boasts a much fancier version of minesweeper for some intense interaction. Wrap up your visit at a traditional Apsara dance performance, or if you prefer the outdoors, stop by the Prek Toal bird sanctuary nearby. 

Rabbit Island is a little paradise located just two miles off the country's southern coast, in the Gulf of Thailand. Back in the day, the island was a rehabilitation center for convicted criminals, who were in turn used to defend the island. Now, volunteers and travelers alike enjoy the island’s white sand beaches, and researchers and ecologists flock here to study the plants and animals found in the surrounding coral reefs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you want to volunteer in Cambodia, make sure to research available opportunities on platforms like GoAbroad.com! After, ensure that you meet program requirements, apply to a trusted organization, and research your destination.

You can volunteer in Cambodia on a 30-day tourist visa, granted via eVisa for most nationalities. If you intend to volunteer in Cambodia beyond 30 days, it's recommended than you obtain a business visa instead.

Pod Volunteer and Projects Abroad are two organizations in Cambodia that provide volunteer opportunities. The best way to find a suitable volunteering opportunity in Cambodia is to research and contact these organizations.

Yes, volunteering in Cambodia is risk-free. To stay safe, as with anywhere in the world, you'll need to use good judgement and exercise caution, especially while you're traveling alone.

Latest Program Reviews

A life changing experience

December 13, 2025by: Irene Neal - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
9

I was looking for an escape from my comfortable lifestyle at home in Canada. I wanted to share my passion helping others less fortunate than myself. I searched international volunteering programs, have volunteered in four countries in 2025, and can truly say these experiences have changed my life. How do you feel when an elderly person in a old people's home in Zambia begs you to stay with them and share stories and smiles? What happens to you when the school children in Ghana hug you so tight you lose your breath? What overtakes your mind when you introduce positive ideas to women in an impoverished village in Sri Lanka, and see them take possession of new personal empowerment? Let me tell you. It grabs you by the heart and nourishes your soul. It makes you want to come back again and again. Which is exactly what I plan to do in 2026.

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