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Volunteer in Cambodia

Explore the heart of SouthEast Asia on International Volunteer HQ’s Cambodia volunteer abroad program. Choose from a wide range of trusted Cambodia volunteer projects, including Teaching English, Childcare, Medical, Special Needs Care and Working with NGOs. Volunteer work in Cambodia is based in the historical cities of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang. With affordable Program Fees and top rated volunteer projects trusted by over 144,000 travelers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organization in Cambodia.

Highlights:
  • 7 meaningful project options available year-round
  • Program Fees from $440 for 2 weeks
  • Includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
  • Accommodation in volunteer houses and homestays

  • Projects based in the historical sites of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang

Apply For Free

Key information

Fully hosted experience from $440
Volunteer from 2 - 24 weeks
Ages 18+ and families
Based in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap & Battambang
Projects align with UN Sustainable Development Goals
Impact driven projects run by locals
B Corporation certified organization
Discover spectacular temples & culture

Volunteer opportunities in Cambodia

Protects animals

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from $460

  • Duration: 2 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
  • Based in Siem Reap & Phnom Penh
  • Volunteers aged 18+ and families

Help rescue and care for abandoned cats and dogs in need at shelters in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.

Increases access to education

4-8 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from $440

  • Duration: 2 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
  • Placements in Phnom Penh
  • Volunteers aged 18+ and families

Provide general assistance in childcare centers in Phnom Penh, helping local staff with a range of care and routine tasks.

Improves health & wellbeing

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from $890

  • Duration: 4 - 12 weeks
  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
  • Based in a hospital in Phnom Penh
  • Volunteers aged 18+

Volunteer in a pediatrics hospital in Phnom Penh assisting and observing local staff in their daily tasks.

Improves health & wellbeing

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from $805

  • Duration: 5 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
  • Based in Phnom Penh
  • Volunteers aged 18+ and families

Assist in special needs classes within primary schools in Phnom Penh, enabling teachers to provide more focused care and attention to those with a range of difficulties.

Increases access to education

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from $440

  • Duration: 2 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
  • Based in a school in Battambang
  • Volunteers aged 18+ and families

Volunteer in local schools in Battambang for students aged between 5-18 years old. Assist a local teacher in English lessons to help improve higher education and career prospects for local children.

Increases access to education

3-5 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from $575

  • Duration: 3 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
  • Based in a school in Siem Reap
  • Volunteers aged 18+ and families

Volunteer in elementary schools or at after school programs in Siem Reap, generally attended by lower-income students. Assist a local teacher or teach independently in English lessons, and occasionally other subjects, for students aged between 5-12 years old.

Supports community development

4-8 hours volunteering per day

Program Fees from $805

  • Duration: 5 - 24 weeks
  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
  • Based in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
  • Volunteers aged 19+

Assist NGOs that focus on important community initiatives in fields including community development, education, health, human rights and environmental issues.

What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience

FS
Francesca Santoruvo
20 Sep 2024

I initially chose to volunteer with IVHQ because they are a certified B Corporation, which resonated deeply with me, especially since I work for a B Corp myself. Being part of a B Corp, I understand first-hand the commitment required to meet the high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. B Corporations prioritize people and the planet alongside profit, and I knew that IVHQ would not only have a meaningful impact on the communities they serve but also operate with the highest level of integrity and responsibility.

From August to September 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to spend five weeks volunteering with a local NGO in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It was an unforgettable experience. My primary role was assisting the organization in developing a proposal for the ‘KIX-call for proposals.’ The work was both challenging and immensely rewarding, providing me with invaluable insight into proposal writing and the NGO's mission.

Throughout those five weeks, I gained much more than technical skills. I learned about Cambodian culture, the daily challenges faced by the NGO, and the resilience and strength of the communities they support. The project was highly collaborative, and I truly appreciated how my input was welcomed and valued at every stage of the process. Seeing our collective efforts come together, knowing that it could potentially secure much-needed funding for future initiatives, was incredibly fulfilling.

Beyond the professional experience, Phnom Penh is a vibrant city full of life. The warmth and friendliness of the people, the incredible food, and the rich cultural heritage made every moment outside of work just as memorable.

I highly recommend this volunteering opportunity to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience. It was an eye-opening journey that left me with a deep appreciation for the critical work being done in Cambodia, as well as lifelong memories and friendships.

...
AB
Anna Bistour
22 Aug 2024

The training and the meeting pre-departure were really helpful and gave me great confidence to hop on the trip without worry. Everything was clear and very informative!

After staying 7 weeks at the school, I had strong ties with the students and the teachers. Everyone was crying when I left and I wished I could have stayed longer, but sadly, I also have my life to continue... I believe I made a great impact and helped the students a lot! They were all very happy with my teaching approach, the activities I organized and the support I provided. As a 19 years old volunteer, I taught 16-18 years old students. Beyond teaching them English, I also had the opportunity to teach them more life skills such as public speaking, confidence, effective study habits and more.

As a university student studying International Development and Philosophy, I gained profound insights. From studying the inequalities in the Western world and in the world of development, I came to appreciate learning directly at the source. It was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The people I met were so kind, caring, and friendly to me that I still can't believe it. I learned to listen more, to be more tolerant, and to approach situations without judgment, with a fresh perspective.

If I had advice to give to future volunteers, it would be to stay, at minimum, more than a month in one place to get to know people in depth and form strong bonds. They should go with an open mind, without judgment, and without trying to find what they are used to at home. They should challenge their norms and conventions, come with a clear slate to write a new story, immerse themselves fully, and learn from others because we have much more to learn than to teach.

...
IJ
Isabella Jones
06 Jun 2024

Cambodia is definitely a hidden gem. The amount of history and culture that the Khmer people share with foreigners is amazing. My work at the daycare was one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had. The amount of joy and love the kids gave me is a gift that I am profoundly thankful for. The city of Phnom Penh is busy and loud but very safe. Nights spent with other volunteers exploring and enjoying the nightlife has created friendships that will last long beyond our volunteer periods.

...
SW
Steven Waslander
29 May 2024

It was an encouraging experience, to be welcomed so warmly, to be able to work with locals and to help students in a meaningful way. Very happy with the experience.

...
HP
Hannah Pruett
01 May 2024

I had ample guidance and preparation resources that allowed the trip to go smoothly, and I travelled to Cambodia with confidence due to the help I received prior to departing. The local team was a friendly and knowledgeable group. They all made sure that we were happy and taught us many things about the local culture and were very time oriented.

This opportunity has made me realize that so much joy comes from volunteering and helping those around you. I will most likely be volunteering with IVHQ again in the future.

I gained confidence, new friends, a better resume, a connection with the students and school, and so much more. If someone is feeling hesitant about joining, they should follow their instincts and think about why they are looking into volunteering abroad. This route is affordable and safe. Traveling abroad this way allows you to have connections with the locals that can speak the language and help you in any situation.

...
BL
Barbara Leslie
13 Mar 2024

The Program Guide is very thorough. It was easy to return to sections to double check details. I definitely gained an awareness of the reality for teachers in a third world country. They worked extremely hard with so few resources. I discovered that the Cambodian people with whom I worked with are so very resilient and well intentioned. Their circumstances are so very different from our first world circumstances they have no frame of reference, but were very eager to learn. I benefited tremendously from the experience, more than I anticipated. While I was there to help, which I believe I did, I received much in return.

...

To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.

Popular add-ons & experiences in Cambodia

Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Cambodia program.

Private Room
Private Room

Want your own private room while volunteering in Cambodia? Enjoy your own private space in comfort and style during your volunteer experience.

From $42
Private Room (air-conditioned)
Private Room (air-conditioned)

Want your own private, air-conditioned, room while volunteering in Cambodia? Enjoy your own private space in comfort and style during your volunteer experience.

From $77
Private Room
Private Room

Want your own private room while volunteering in Cambodia? Enjoy your own private space in comfort and style during your volunteer experience.

From $42
Private Room (air-conditioned)
Private Room (air-conditioned)

Want your own private, air-conditioned, room while volunteering in Cambodia? Enjoy your own private space in comfort and style during your volunteer experience.

From $77

Check what's required to visit Cambodia

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