Gap Year Programme

Cambodia Itinerary

community development + jungle exploration + historic sites

This 4-week gap year programme to Colombia offers a dynamic, varied experience with contrasting locations and projects to keep you engaged and inspired.

Day 1

Siem Reap

Arrival

You’ll land at Siem Reap Airport, where your guide will be there to whisk you away to your base. After unpacking and refreshing, you’ll head out for a relaxed stroll around this charming city, finishing with a delicious welcome dinner. Siem Reap will be your base for the first two weeks - this vibrant city is brimming with opportunities for exploration, culture, and immersion in life-changing social impact projects.

Day 2

Siem Reap

Settle in + Explore

Your day kicks off early with a visit to one of Siem Reap’s iconic floating villages. You’ll glide across the lake, marvelling at the unique stilted homes and daily life of the local fishing communities. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a way of life that’s beautifully intertwined with the water.

In the afternoon, you’ll head back to town for a guided wander through Siem Reap’s bustling streets. You’ll explore the vibrant energy of Pub Street, known for its eclectic mix of markets, cafes, and street performers, before taking a more tranquil stroll through the stunning Royal Gardens. The gardens are a peaceful oasis, perfect for soaking in the beauty of Siem Reap’s greener side, with its grand trees and colourful blossoms.

Days 3 -4

Siem Reap 

Water for Cambodia –Transforming Lives

Siem Reap is renowned for its incredible social impact projects, and through our local partners, we’re fortunate to gain unique access to many transformative initiatives - the first one you’ll experience is the "Water for Cambodia" project.

Over the next two days, you’ll play a hands-on role in addressing one of the region’s biggest challenges - access to clean drinking water.

You’ll begin by learning about the innovative Bio Sand Filters, a simple yet life-changing solution that turns contaminated water into safe, drinkable water. Working alongside the team, you’ll help assemble these filters, gaining insight into the impact of this vital work.

The experience culminates with the delivery and installation of the filters directly into local communities. Witnessing families receive clean water for the first time will be unforgettable moment, underscoring the importance of Siem Reap’s social enterprises and the privilege of being part of their inspiring mission.

Day 5

Siem Reap 

Cycling Adventures + Creative Connections

Your morning starts with an invigorating cycling tour through the stunning Cambodian countryside. Pedaling past lush rice fields, traditional stilted houses, and charming rural villages you will soak in the peaceful rhythm of local life. It’s a refreshing way to connect with the landscape and gain a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s rural charm.

In the afternoon, you’ll dive into a creative activity with a local t-shirt printing workshop, part of another social enterprise we are involved with. Guided by skilled artisans, you’ll learn about traditional printing techniques while creating your own unique design. This workshop supports local livelihoods and showcases the innovative spirit of Siem Reap’s community projects, giving you a chance to take home a tangible piece of your experience.

Day 6

Siem Reap

Cultural Exchange with JWOC (Journeys Within Our Community)

Here you will spend the day with JWOC, a project championed by our local partners, dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between visitors and local students. This cultural exchange programme is all about sharing ideas, values, language, and history in a fun and interactive way.

Through engaging activities like storytelling, games, and collaborative projects, you’ll connect on a personal level with students, learning about their lives and culture while sharing your own experiences. It’s a unique opportunity to engage with Cambodia’s younger generation in a way that’s both impactful and rewarding.

Day 7

Siem Reap

Culinary Delights + Farm Adventures

In the morning you'll head out for a hands-on cooking class in the countryside. Over the course of the morning, you’ll learn to prepare a traditional Cambodian dish using fresh, local ingredients, guided by skilled chefs. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the flavours and techniques that define Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage.

After lunch, your adventure continues with a tractor ride through the vegetable farm, getting a close-up look at rural life, exploring the lush fields where much of the region’s produce is grown. It’s a fun and authentic way to connect with the agricultural traditions that sustain the local community.

Day 8

Siem Reap  

Read Club Cambodia + Water Park Fun

On Sunday mornings, you'll take part in an inspiring project with ReadClub Cambodia, dedicated to nurturing a love for reading among local children.

Our main guide, Sunak, plays a crucial role in this project, ensuring everything runs smoothly. During the morning session, you’ll help students practice reading and engage in lively discussions about their favourite books, offering a meaningful opportunity to encourage learning and connect with the next generation.

In the afternoon, you can choose to unwind or amp up the excitement with a visit to the Wake Park Water Park (optional, with a small additional cost).

Whether you're wakeboarding across the water or simply soaking up the fun atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to add some adventure to your day.

Days 9 - 12

Siem Reap 

ABC’s and Rice –Transforming Lives Together

Over the next three days, you’ll dive into the incredible work of ABC’s and Rice, a project dedicated to providing free education, nutritious meals, and healthcare support to struggling families. This is your chance to make a tangible difference while connecting with the vibrant community of children and families who rely on this initiative.

Your time will be spent teaching, playing sports, and organising fun activities with the kids, whose energy and enthusiasm are sure to captivate you. You’ll also help with gardening projects to support their sustainable food efforts and pitch in with practical tasks like facility upkeep and meal preparation for the food bank.

This immersive experience will leave you with a deeper understanding of the challenges these families face and the powerful impact of community-driven solutions. It’s a truly rewarding opportunity to give back, learn, and build meaningful connections that will stay with you long after your time at ABC’s and Rice.

On day 12, you will have a free day to spend however you like. You could take this time to relax, explore and process all you have achieved so far on your journey.

Day 13

Siem Reap 

Return to Cultural Exchange with JWOC

You spend one more day reconnecting with JWOC (Journeys Within Our Community) for another meaningful cultural exchange session. Building on your earlier visit, you’ll dive back into engaging activities with local students, sharing ideas, stories, and perspectives.

This return session allows you to deepen the connections you’ve made and further explore the values, language, and history that make Cambodia so unique. It’s a chance to reflect on the bonds formed and the mutual learning that makes this adventure so special. By the end of the day, you’ll leave inspired by the resilience and warmth of the community and the impact of the work you’ve been a part of.

Day 14

Siem Reap

Angkor Temples + Evening Circus

A showstopper of a day. You’ll spend the day exploring the world-famous Angkor temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological wonders on the planet. Here you will have the day to wander through the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm with its iconic tree roots, and the serene Bayon Temple with its enigmatic stone faces. Your guide will bring the history and stories of these breath-taking sites to life.

In the evening, you’ll experience the magic of the Phare Cambodian Circus, a captivating performance blending acrobatics, music, and storytelling. This inspiring show supports young Cambodian artists and is the perfect way to celebrate the creativity and resilience of the local culture.

Day 15

Siem Reap

Read Club + Relax

Spend your final Sunday morning back with Read Club Cambodia, helping local children practice reading and share their love for books - a meaningful way to wrap up your time giving back.

In the afternoon, relax and enjoy Siem Reap one last time, whether exploring, grabbing a coffee, or haggling in the markets.

Days 16 - 17

The Jungle Phase  

Kratie + The Irrawaddy Dolphins

Your adventure continues as you travel from Siem Reap to Kratie, transitioning into the jungle phase of your journey. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing scenery as you make your way through Cambodia’s lush landscapes, setting the tone for the next exciting chapter.

Your next stop is Kratie, a charming Mekong port town and your gateway to meeting the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. Here you’ll hop aboard a traditional fisherman’s boat and glide up to the dolphin pool at Kampi, the perfect spot to see these critically endangered creatures in their natural habitat.

On your way back, you'll stop by Sambok Mountain for breathtaking views over the Mekong River to explore its spiritual sites. In the afternoon you will hop on a bike to explore Kratie’s tranquil countryside. You’ll pedal through vibrant villages, lush rice fields, and peaceful riverside trails, immersing yourself in the charm and beauty of this tranquil region.

Days 18 – 20

The Jungle Phase  

Sen Monorom, Coffee, Elephants + Waterfalls

Next up, you'll venture further into the heart of Cambodia to Sen Monorom. As you travel through ever-changing scenery - forests, plantations, grasslands, mountains, and lush jungle - you’ll reach Mondulkiri, known as "where the mountains meet" and home to traditional Phnong villages. Once in Sen Monorom, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local coffee and pepper plantation, and explore the buzzing local market filled with fresh produce and unique handicrafts.

Your jungle adventure then continues as you visit a Phnong minority village. You'll meet your Cambodian elephant and local guide (a Mahout) early in the morning and embark on a trek through the jungle. Crossing rivers, passing local farms, and ending up at the Trok River for lunch. Here, you'll help your Mahout wash and cool off the elephants, followed by a cultural evening in the village with a BBQ dinner.

The following day, you'll hike through the jungle, marvelling at the spectacular views, discovering hidden waterfalls and caves, and take a refreshing swim at Leng Oung waterfall while a traditional bamboo soup and BBQ is prepared for you all. After lunch, you'll continue your trek to the picturesque Leng Ken before heading back to Pou Tang Village, spend some time relaxing and having fun with your guide's family before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Days 21–23

Jungle to Phnom Penh  

River Cruise + City Vibes

After breakfast, you’ll leave the serene landscapes of Sen Monorom and head to the bustling capital of Phnom Penh. Arriving just in time for a sunset cruise on the Mekong River which will give you a great view of the city’s skyline while savouring a delicious dinner on board.

The next day begins with a cycling tour through Phnom Penh’s vibrant streets, offering a close-up look at local life. You’ll then visit the stunning Royal Palace, a symbol of Cambodia’s rich heritage, followed by a visit to the Tuol Sleng Museum, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the country’s challenging history.

Continuing south, you’ll pause at the Killing Fields for a poignant visit, reflecting on Cambodia’s past, before making your way to the charming riverside town of Kampot, ready for the final chapter of  your journey.

Days 24 – 27

River and Coastal Phase

Kampot and Rabbit Island

Your final phase will be in Kampot, to soak up the laid-back charm of this riverside town, where life flows as gently as the river itself. Your base is perfectly situated to enjoy the tranquil scenery, with lush greenery, colonial-era architecture, and a vibrant local culture creating a picturesque backdrop. Interwoven into these days will be a full-day tour of Kep, a charming coastal town. Visit the bustling Crab Market, famous for its fresh seafood delicacies, before taking a short boat ride to Rabbit Island, for an afternoon lounging on its pristine beaches, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the island’s relaxed vibe.

Back in Kampot, you’ll embrace the town’s natural beauty with a paddleboarding adventure along the river. As you glide through the calm waters, you’ll pass dense forests, mangroves, and traditional fishing villages, gaining a unique perspective on the local way of life. Evenings are a chance to unwind by the river, enjoying the golden glow of the sunset reflecting on the water.

For a touch of excitement, you’ll be able to spend a day at the waterpark, a lively escape perfect for letting loose. Rounding off the day with a BBQ boat trip, where you’ll feast on delicious local flavours while floating along the serene waterways, making it a truly memorable experience.

On your final day, you’ll bid farewell to Kampot and head to Phnom Penh, where vibrant markets and a special farewell dinner will close this unforgettable chapter of your adventure.

Day 28

Phnom Penh

Departure

On your final day you will be driven back to Phnom Penh airport for your departure. This journey takes you through the old and new town allowing you one final look at the vibrant city and to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced, filled with meaningful connections, unforgettable landscapes, and memories to last a lifetime. Safe travels.

Kickstart your Gap Year

Life’s too short to stay on the side lines. In just 4 weeks, The Leap offers you the chance to make an impact, challenge yourself, and grow in ways you never imagined.  Found your perfect Leap? Then book yourself on.