Why this
Matters.
Join us on a journey to the heart of Southeast Asia and discover Cambodia from a new perspective! This 13-day ethical adventure combines breathtaking landscapes, meaningful cultural experiences, and genuine connections with local communities. Perfect for those who seek not just to travel but to make a difference, this trip offers an unforgettable blend of history, adventure, and compassion.
Make a Difference: Your participation directly supports local communities, ethical tourism, and conservation initiatives.
Travel with Heart: Experience Cambodia’s culture and history in a way that respects and uplifts its people and environment.
Unforgettable Memories: From ancient temples to heartfelt connections with locals, this trip offers moments that will stay with you forever.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy.
This trip embodies community-focused tourism, putting locals at the heart of the experience. It’s about working with the community, not just visiting. By listening to local needs and collaborating on sustainable projects like building clay stoves and helping with wildlife care, the trip ensures tourism benefits the people rather than exploiting them. Through immersive cultural exchange and impactful development work, this journey uses tourism as a force for good—empowering communities and fostering deep, meaningful connections that leave a lasting legacy for both travelers and locals.
The
Journey
Arrival in Phnom Penh
As you arrive into Phnom Penh our team will meet you as you come through customs and take you to our hotel in the centre of the city. In the afternoon you are free to head out and explore the city under your own steam.
Today is an arrival day, so guests will arrive throughout the day and you are free to take the day at your own pace. Relax at the hotel or walk around the centre of the city. It's a very safe and friendly place!
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel
Day 1
Royal Palace and Wat Phnom
Today we dive into Cambodia’s regal history with a visit to the stunning Royal Palace, home to exquisite Khmer architecture and the Silver Pagoda’s treasure trove of artifacts. Later, we explore Wat Phnom, a serene hilltop temple steeped in legend and the home of Cambodia Bhuddism. After a delicious local lunch, we explore the many markets that form integral part in Cambodians’ lives. Here we will sample exotic fruits, shop for handmade crafts, and experience the daily life of Phnom Penh’s residents. End the day with a warm welcome dinner at one of the top local restaurants in the city.
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2
Cambodia’s History Unveiled
Today is a poignant exploration of Cambodia’s turbulent past. We begin with a visit to the infamous S21 Museum, a former school turned prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. After a reflective lunch, visit the Killing Fields, where you’ll learn about the resilience and strength of the Cambodian people. Wind down with a serene sunset boat ride along the Chaktomuk River, a tranquil moment to absorb the day’s experiences.
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3
Journey to Battambang
In the morning we travel outside of the city into rural Cambodia to the city of Battambang, well known for its art, laid back way of life and friendly charm. Upon arrival, we will visit the dramatic Phnom Sampov, a temple in the hills surrounding the city where we’ll watch a breathtaking sunset and witness the flight of millions of bats emerging from the surrounding caves. In the evening we'll travel back to Battambang for a city walk and a lively circus performance by the talented youth of Phare Ponleu Selapak.
Accommodation: Cambana La Riviere Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Immersion in Rural Cambodia
Today we start with a must for any ethical and sustainable visit to Cambodia. A Soksabike Tour, exploring the picturesque countryside of Battambang by bike, supporting a huge range of families en route. Pedal or ride a tuk-tuk through lush landscapes, visit local family homes, and learn about traditional crafts like rice paper making and wine production. This ride provides a meaningful connection to the people and their way of life and a great way to see the real Cambodia.
Accommodation: Cambana La Riviere Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5
Wildlife Sanctuary
From Battambang we travel North East to an extraordinary organisation. The Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary is a sister park to ENP in Chiang Mai. Both sanctuaries practice ethical standards so there is no touching, hand feeding, bathing or riding of the elephants. We'll spend 2 nights here up close to these majestic creatures learning and supporting the animals care and the sanctuary’s conservation efforts. During our stay at the centre we'll be involved with in hands-on activities like preparing food and bringing out food to the elephants, tracking them though the jungle and watching them in their natural environment.
Accommodation: Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary. Meals: All
Day 6
Sanctuary Life
In addition to the elephants there are rescue dogs and cats in the centre. There is also a monkey rescue area where you can watch their antics and also help to prepare their food. Watch your fingers, your camera and your phone as they love to nibble! Accommodations are basic, but very comfortable. They are all equipped with electricity sockets, fans, mosquito nets and en-suite bathrooms. Almost all the huts face on to the elephant enclosure so you can watch them in the evening as they settle for the night and catch them at their most active in the morning.
Accommodation: Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary. Meals: All
Day 7
Journey to Siem Reap
We will leave the sanctuary after lunch on Day 8 to take the roughly 90 minute trip to the bustling city of Siem Reap. After your volunteering and the long bus ride you'll appreciate a cool drink and a dip in the hotel pool. There are multiple restaurants just feet away and we are beside Pub Street as well as the night market.
Accommodation: Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8
Siem Reap & APOPO
Back in Siem Reap, we will spend part of the morning at the APOPO Centre where we'll discover how locals train African Giant Pouched Rats to detect landmines in Cambodia. After a lunch of your choosing at the Botanical Gardens, we will visit the Metta Karuna Reflection Center doing incredible work in the fields of human rights, peace and reconciliation, and campaigning against landmines. We'll spend time with Tun Channareth (Reth) who accepted the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997 on behalf of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines.
Accommodation: Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel. Meals: Breakfast
Day 9
Community Projects
This morning we'll take part in community projects following directly on from our workshop yesterday with Reth. We'll deliver some wheelchairs that have been donated by EVA Travel. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Rokhak Women's Cooperative to see how they have been able to make a sustainable living from their weaving and basket making. While you're here you can try your hand at making something unique.
Accommodation: Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10
Angkor Temples Exploration
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Angkor Wat Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will plan for an early start so that we can witness the sun rise over Angkor Wat. Then with our spiritual guide, we wander through ancient ruins, marvel at intricate carvings, and learn about the Khmer Empire’s fascinating history. You can spend as much time as you like at the 400 acre site or choose to spend the afternoon exploring Siem Reap at your own pace.
Accommodation: Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel. Meals: Packed Breakfast
Day 11
Siem Reap Options
For many people, one day at Angkor Wat just isn't enough, so we have added this extra day in Siem Reap so that you can retun for a further exploration. We will arrange for a tuk-tuk to take you there. If you don't want to return to Angkor Wat, we will arrange a visit to one of the floating villages in Siem Reap. In the evening we will gather as a group one last time for our Farewell Dinner.
Accommodation: Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12
Extend Your Journey — Laos
5 nights / 6 days in Luang Prabang
Fly to Luang Prabang and enjoy the laid-back beauty of Laos. Witness the serene alms-giving ceremony at sunrise, cruise along the Mekong to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, swim in the turquoise pools of Kuang Si Falls, join local women for a silk weaving class, and savour Laos' incredible cuisine.
Farewell Cambodia — or Onwards to Laos
Bid farewell to Cambodia as you head to the airport. Take with you unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful country.
Or continue the journey! If you've booked the Laos extension, we'll fly from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang and get settled into our centrally located hotel.
Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel, Luang Prabang. Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 13
Kuang Si Falls & Bear Sanctuary
A comfortable jeep ride to the Kuang Si Falls and Bear Sanctuary. Start at the waterfalls where there are numerous milky turquoise pools for swimming. Visit the Sun Bear sanctuary to learn about these endangered creatures. Stop at the Buffalo Dairy Farm for a guided walk and some ice cream.
Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 14
Pak Ou Caves & Mekong Cruise
Visit the Pak Ou Caves, two limestone caves filled with over 400,000 Buddha images and statues. This has been a place of prayer and safety from foreign invasion for centuries.
Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 15
Silk Weaving & Royal Palace
Visit Ock Pop Tok, a living crafts centre where we will have a silk weaving class. Following lunch we'll visit the Royal Palace Museum for a tour. The Palace was turned into a museum in 1975 after the Revolution.
Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 16
Alms Ceremony & Farewell
In the early morning, witness the alms-giving ceremony — a long-standing tradition dating back to the 14th century. Every morning at dawn, Buddhist monks in orange robes set out from their monasteries to receive offerings. This is our last evening together.
Accommodation: Vang Luang Hotel. Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 17
Departure from Laos
We say goodbye this morning after breakfast. We'll help you arrange your transport to Luang Prabang International Airport and wish you a safe journey home.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 18
What's Included
What's Included
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Local transport
- Guided excursions
- Volunteer project fees
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Your Questions
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