Gap Year Programs in Cambodia

No matter what your area of expertise is, or what skills you want to further develop, there’s a wide number of gap year programs in Cambodia. The tricky part? Finding the right place to support your goals. Here are the most popular cities and places for gap years in Cambodia.

Siem Reap is the most popular destination for gappers in Cambodia. Why? It might have something to do with it’s proximity to Angkor Wat (this temple complex is AMAAAAAZING) or the fact that it is one of the most impoverished areas in the whole of the country. Gap year programs in Siem Reap often straddle the two, allowing for adventures amidst volunteering to help the local population. Volunteer projects typically include construction or teaching English, whereas your adventures will revolve around trying crispy tarantulas at the Old Market and getting “fishy” foot massages.

Since we’re talking about adventure and Siem Reap is surrounded by countryside, the latest trend just happens to be quad biking, where you can bump along the canvas of green lands and watch the sunset over the rice paddies.

Phnom Penh. Cambodia’s capital city, also known as the “The pearl of Asia,” is considered one of the prettiest cities the French built in Indochina. Gap year programs in Phnom Penh allow plenty of time to admire the city’s beauty, while also giving back in meaningful ways. Volunteer on your gap year and give your time to orphanages in Cambodia, which unfortunately are quite prevalent. If your heart is drawn to those more furry, consider volunteering with endangered and vulnerable species at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, less than an hour away.