Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country defined by dense jungles, diverse wildlife, and remarkable archaeological sites. But beneath this beauty lies a painful history of war and genocide that has left lasting economic and social challenges on local communities. While the nation has been rebuilding since the mid-1990s, the remnants of war remain. Unexploded mines threaten rural areas, and schools are overcrowded, as 50% of the population is under age 25. On this trip, volunteers will support local communities in Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat. Participants will assist with a variety of projects, including teaching English, distributing wheelchairs to Cambodians injured by mines, building chicken coops, or participating in reforestation efforts. Volunteers should be prepared to spend long hours on their feet and to engage in moderate physical activity.
The trip combines meaningful service with cultural and historical immersion. During their downtime, volunteers can explore Angkor Wat—often called the largest religious complex in the world—by exploring crumbling temples hidden in the jungle, learning about the Khmer civilization, and witnessing the intricate stone carvings up close. Additionally, participants can visit the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake, where communities live in stilted homes adapted to seasonal flooding, or wander the streets of Siem Reap, lined with restaurants and local food stalls.
This 7-day trip costs $1892. This trip is led by Globe Aware, a nonprofit organization that offers international volunteer programs that align with the United Nations sustainability goals. Volunteers gain cultural awareness and work alongside host communities.