Volunteer abroad in Cambodia, South East Asia, including teaching, care, medicine and exploring Khmer history and culture

Volunteering in Cambodia

Cambodia is now one of the must-visit destinations in South East Asia. With its pristine beaches, ancient temples and exotic jungle, it's easy to see why its turbulent history is now becoming an increasingly distant memory. This beautiful country is at peace, and Cambodians are focused on building a positive future. Visit Cambodia and you will be amazed by the juxtaposition of vibrant cities, achingly beautiful scenery and famous historical landmarks like Angkor Wat.

At about two-thirds the size of the UK, but one of the least-populated Asian countries, Cambodia is bordered by Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. With a coastline on the tropical Gulf of Thailand, Cambodia occupies the heart of South-East Asia and this area was previously home to the mighty Khmer empire.

Much of Cambodia is dissected by the impressive Mekong River, and it is a fertile country, with forests and gemstone mines that will help to build the framework for future growth. If you're interested in overseas voluntary work in an unspoilt, beautiful country, now's certainly the time to see Cambodia. Projects are available for anyone interested in volunteering in the developing world; whether you are on a gap year, a summer placement, or a career break.

Volunteer work opportunities for you in Cambodia

Projects Abroad is based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's spirited and charming capital city. Many areas of Phnom Penh are booming; the city has an elegant riverfront and lively nightlife, and its people are friendly, dignified and optimistic. But it's hard to escape the poverty and the fact that many Cambodians are still struggling to survive.

Join a Care project and you'll work with orphanages and street-children, to help give young Cambodians a brighter future. Furthermore, as the country is becoming increasingly popular with tourists, the desire to learn English has never been greater. We also offer volunteering abroad opportunities for Teaching within the classrooms of the orphanages we work with.

Our placements in Medicine, at Phnom Penh's state hospitals, are suitable for medical students who have completed at least one year of medical studies.

If you want to explore the culture, history and archaeology of Cambodia, consider joining the Khmer Project - part of our Culture & Community Projects - which immerse you in the Khmer culture and offer the chance to work at the temples of Angkor Wat.

Travel and Tourism in Cambodia

At weekends and during travel time Cambodia can offer a huge number of activities. The world-famous gathering of temples near Siem Reap is a must for all visitors - climbing over huge tree roots to the entrance of partly hidden doorways is guaranteed to bring out the Indiana Jones in anyone!

However, Cambodia offers far more attractions than temples. Go elephant trekking in the East, try snorkelling and dolphin-spotting in the seas surrounding Sihanoukville, or take in the sunset with a bottle of Angkor beer at a local beach bar.

Travelling to the neighbouring countries is easy. You can follow the well-trodden tourist trail into Thailand, but border crossings are also accessible into Laos and Vietnam; two more unspoilt countries that are crying out to be visited before the tourist masses discover their charms.