Experience the heart and soul of Cambodia on an immersive adventure that blends cultural exploration, community impact, and breathtaking natural beauty. From ancient temples and vibrant cities to remote jungles and pristine beaches, this gap year program is designed for those who crave adventure, meaningful connections, and a deeper understanding of this incredible country—far beyond the typical tourist trail.
Included
Overnight accommodation as mentioned
Excursions as mentioned
Leap T-shirt
24-hour emergency back-up, management and support by UK and Cambodian team
Breakfasts, 21 Lunches and 11 Dinner
All transportation in Private Modern Mini-Van
Personal Guide & Driver
Excluded
Flight tickets
Tourist visa
Lunches & Dinners no Mentioned
Beverages
Personal Expenses
Travel insurance (cover against all cancellation costs, medical expenses, including repatriation and evacuation in the event of accident of illness)
Anything else not mentioned
Daily Travel Plan
Day 1-15 | Culture & Community Impact in Siem Reap
Welcome to Siem Reap, a city where ancient heritage meets impactful social initiatives. Over the next two weeks, you’ll dive into meaningful community projects while exploring Cambodia’s rich history and traditions. Siem Reap is home to inspiring grassroots efforts, especially in education. From cafes that empower staff with literacy skills to larger-scale social programs, you’ll witness firsthand how local organizations are creating change. Here are the four key projects you’ll be involved in:
Education & Community Projects
ABC’s and Rice (4 days)
Support an initiative that provides free education, meals, and healthcare advice to families in need. Assist with meal distribution, gardening, and engaging with children whose energy and smiles will leave a lasting impression.
JWOC (Journeys Within Our Community) (2 days)
Take part in a cultural exchange program that brings together local students and international volunteers. Through activities, discussions, and shared experiences, you’ll gain insight into each other’s worlds.
Water for Cambodia
Help assemble and install water filters that transform unsafe water into clean, drinkable resources. See how access to safe water makes an immediate and lasting impact on rural communities.
Read Club Cambodia (2 mornings)
Encourage young readers by volunteering at a literacy program that fosters a love for books. Join Sunday sessions where children practice reading and engage in lively book discussions.
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Exploring Siem Reap’s Cultural Treasures
Beyond your volunteer work, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s vibrant culture through these unforgettable experiences:
Angkor Wat Complex – Spend a day discovering this world-renowned temple site, and witness an unforgettable sunrise over the ancient ruins.
Cambodian Circus – Experience a mesmerizing blend of acrobatics, music, and storytelling at a performance created in collaboration with the NGO Phare Ponleu.
Floating Villages of Kampong Phluk – Explore stilted homes, flooded forests, and the lively Rolous Market before venturing out onto the vast Tonle Sap Lake.
Countryside Cooking Experience – Visit a local market to handpick ingredients before learning to cook a delicious, traditional Cambodian meal in a serene rural setting.
Where You’ll Stay
Enjoy 15 nights at one of Siem Reap’s top boutique hotels—either Blancsmith Residence or Deluxe Twin with Terrace at King Rock Boutique Hotel (depending on group size). Both are ideally located near Pub Street and the night markets, putting you right in the heart of the action while offering a stylish and comfortable retreat.
Meals & Dining Flexibility
First 2 days: All three meals included to help you settle in.
After that: Breakfast and lunch provided, leaving your evenings free to explore Siem Reap’s diverse dining scene.
Sundays: No lunch provided after Kids Club, giving you the flexibility to plan your own afternoon.
This setup ensures the perfect balance between structured meals and the freedom to experience Cambodia’s incredible food culture at your own pace!
Day 16-21 | Jungle Expedition: Elephants & Dolphins Encounter
After two enriching weeks in Siem Reap, it’s time to embrace the wild side of Cambodia. Your adventure continues in Kratie, a charming riverside town along the Mekong, where you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey to spot the elusive Irrawaddy dolphins. Board a traditional fisherman’s boat and glide to the Kampi dolphin pool, one of the last sanctuaries for these rare creatures. On your way back, take in the breathtaking panoramic views from Sambok Mountain, offering a spectacular vista over the Mekong.
Into the Heart of the Jungle
Next, venture deeper into Mondulkiri, a land of rolling mountains, lush jungles, and indigenous Phnong villages. Your journey to Sen Monorom will take you through an ever-changing landscape—forests, plantations, and vast grasslands—before arriving in a region known as “where the mountains meet.”
Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious local lunch at a coffee and pepper plantation, followed by an exploration of the bustling Sen Monorom market, where vibrant stalls overflow with fresh produce and handcrafted goods.
Elephant Encounter & Trekking Expedition
Your jungle adventure truly begins when you meet a Phnong community and your local Mahout (elephant caretaker). Start your morning trekking through the wilderness alongside a Cambodian elephant, crossing rivers and passing remote farms before arriving at Trok River. Here, you’ll take part in a heartwarming experience—bathing and cooling off the elephants in the river.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in traditional village life, sharing stories over a BBQ feast prepared by your hosts.
The following day, continue your jungle trek, weaving through lush greenery to discover hidden waterfalls and mystical caves. Take a refreshing dip at Leng Oung waterfall, where a traditional bamboo-cooked lunch will be waiting for you. After lunch, hike onward to Leng Ken, a serene and picturesque spot, before heading back to Pou Tang Village. Spend time relaxing and connecting with your guide’s family before returning to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
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Accommodation & Dining
Where You’ll Stay
Kratie (2 nights) – Stay at the Mekong Dolphin Hotel, a comfortable base near the river.
Sen Monorom (2 nights) – Relax at the Green House Retreat, surrounded by nature.
Hong’s House Homestay (1 night) – Experience authentic Cambodian hospitality with a local family.
Meals
Enjoy three meals a day, offering a delicious mix of local flavors and nourishing dishes to keep you energized throughout your adventure.
Day 22-28 | Cultural Discovery & Coastal Escape
Your journey begins in Phnom Penh, where you’ll dive into Cambodia’s rich culture with a scenic sunset and dinner cruise along the majestic Mekong River. Drift past floating villages and local fishermen as the sun sets behind the city skyline and the Royal Palace, creating a picture-perfect evening.
The adventure continues with a cycling tour through the city’s landmarks, including a stop at the stunning Royal Palace. Gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s past with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a sobering yet insightful experience.
Next, you’ll visit the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, a site that reflects Cambodia’s history and resilience. From there, you’ll head to Kampot, settling into a peaceful riverside retreat with time to explore the charming town at your own pace.
A full-day excursion to Kep awaits, beginning with a visit to the renowned Kep Crab Market. Then, hop on a traditional boat to Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island), a serene oasis lined with swaying palm trees. Enjoy a leisurely day on the untouched beaches, basking in the sun and swimming in crystal-clear waters before returning to the mainland.
Back in Kampot, your days will be filled with exciting activities—paddleboarding through scenic waterways, venturing into lush mangroves and fishing villages, and even visiting a water park for some extra fun. As your adventure winds down, you’ll enjoy a relaxing sunset boat cruise paired with a delicious BBQ feast before returning to Phnom Penh for your departure.
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Accommodation & Dining
Where You’ll Stay
Phnom Penh (3 nights): Home Chic Hotel or similar
Kampot (4 nights): Arcadia Downtown Hostel
Meals
Phnom Penh: All meals included, except for one dinner, giving you the freedom to explore the local cuisine.
Kampot: Most meals provided, with two dinners and two lunches left open for you to discover local dining options.
Take a look through our country guides before traveling with us. It is the perfect preparation before you go.
Cambodia Guide
The Kingdom of Wonders
Laos Guide
The Land of a Million Elephants
Vietnam Guide
The Land of the Blue Dragon
Thailand Guide
The Land of Smiles
Myanmar Guide
The Land of Golden Pagodas
Indonesia Guide
The Emerald of the Equator
Travel Essentials (Holiday Preparations)
Check out our comprehensive guide and essential packing tips before you embark on your journey. Make sure you're well prepared with all the necessary items to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
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Departure Dates
