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Cambodia Gap Year Programme

Siem Reap + Kratie + Kampot

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Transformative 4 week adventure

Culture, Adventure, and Social Impact

Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep connection to one of the most vibrant cultures in the world. Our exclusive three-phase adventure across Cambodia is so much more than just a backpacking experience. This is your ticket to explore iconic tourist hotspots, uncover hidden gems, and make a real impact through life-changing social enterprises, all while forging new friendships.

Imagine delving into an epic adventure where ancient culture seamlessly blends with transformative social enterprises. Picture yourself encountering elusive dolphins, walking with rescued elephants, and relaxing on stunning tropical beaches. This gap year programme is crafted for those who seek more than just backpacking; it's for those who crave contribution, challenge, and culture, shared with adventurous peers who are as eager as you to explore the real Cambodia beyond the typical backpacking trail.

Your journey begins in the vibrant town of Siem Reap, where history, nightlife, and community development converge. Discover the ancient splendor of Angkor Wat, marvel at the vastness of Tonle Sap Lake, and master the art of cooking traditional Amok. Your time will be a dynamic mix of volunteering and cultural immersion, ensuring you get the best of both worlds.

Next, thrill-seekers will revel in the jungle adventures along the Mekong River. Search for the rare Irrawaddy dolphins and walk alongside majestic rescued elephants in their sanctuary. Finishing your journey in the cultural heart of Phnom Penh before unwinding on the pristine beaches of Rabbit Island and the riverside charm of Kampot.

Join this 4 week adventure from Siem Reap to Rabbit Island - exploring historic sites, searching for endangered wildlife and helping with life changing social enterprise.

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Cambodia's Itinerary

Dive into Cambodia's rich culture, social enterprises, and breathtaking landscapes with our 4 week gap year programme. Explore ancient temples, vibrant nightlife, jungle adventures, and pristine beaches while making a real impact with a team of like-minded adventurers.

Days 1-28

Overview Culture, Adventure + Social Impact

Culture, Adventure + Social Impact

Dive into an epic journey across Cambodia, a land brimming with ancient culture, transformative social enterprises, elusive dolphins, rescued elephants, and stunning tropical beaches. This gap year programme is all about contribution, challenge, and culture, shared with a team of adventurous peers who want to explore the real Cambodia beyond the typical backpacking trail.

Phase 1: Siem Reap – History, Nightlife, and Social Impact
Your adventure kicks off with two incredible weeks in the super cool, historic town of Siem Reap, the old French colonial capital. Here, East meets West in a fusion of wide boulevards, charming shuttered houses, and delicate ironwork. Siem Reap isn't just about its buzzing nightlife, street food, night markets, and trendy cafes—it's also a hub for community development and social enterprises.

You'll dive into this vibrant mix whilst exploring the ancient Angkor Wat complex, marveling at the wonders of Tonle Sap Lake, and learning to cook a mouthwatering Amok. Get ready for a blend of fun and purpose in one of the most captivating towns in Southeast Asia.

Phase 2: Jungle Adventures and Wildlife Encounters
In week three, you’ll venture inland to the rugged mountains and dense jungles along the thundering Mekong River. Here you will hop aboard a local fisherman’s boat to search for the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. Then, hike deep into the jungle to walk alongside rescued elephants who now live safely with their mahouts. This part of your journey is all about connecting with nature and witnessing Cambodia’s incredible wildlife up close.

Phase 3: Cultural Immersion and Beach Bliss
The final leg of your adventure brings you to the cultural heart of Phnom Penh before you unwind riverside in Kampot and relax on the breathtaking beaches of Rabbit Island. This week is a perfect blend of culture and chill time, offering a chance to reflect on your journey and plan your next travels across Asia. Cambodia's strategic location makes it an ideal gateway to explore Thailand and Vietnam.

Days 1-15

Siem Reap Culture + Social Enterprise Projects

Culture and Social Enterprise Projects

Welcome to the vibrant, historic town of Siem Reap, where ancient culture meets dynamic social enterprises. Over the next two weeks, you’ll immerse yourself in community development while exploring the rich tapestry of Cambodia’s history and traditions. Siem Reap is brimming with inspiring community initiatives, particularly focused on education. From cafes teaching employees to read and write to comprehensive social projects, you'll see first hand the incredible impact of local efforts. Here are the four key projects you’ll be involved in:

ABC's and Rice Project: 4 days
Provide free education, meals, and healthcare advice to struggling families. Help with meal-times, gardening, and engaging with the kids who are sure to captivate you.

JWOC (Journeys Within Our Community): 2 days
Participate in a cultural exchange program designed to connect you with local students. Share ideas, values, language, and history through fun activities.

Water for Cambodia
Assist in assembling and installing water filters that turn contaminated water into clean drinking water. Witness the life-changing impact of providing clean water to communities.

Read Club Cambodia: 2 mornings
Volunteer with a project aimed at fostering a love for reading among local children. Help out during Sunday sessions as students practice their reading and discuss books.

Cultural Exploration
Between your volunteering efforts, you'll have plenty of time to explore Siem Reap’s cultural treasures such as:

Angkor Wat Complex
Spend a day at this breathtaking site, and don't miss the stunning sunrise.

Cambodian Circus
Enjoy an evening of acrobatics, music, dance, and culture, organized by the performing arts school in partnership with the NGO Phare Ponleu.

Floating Villages of Kampong Phluk
Visit these unique stilted houses and flooded forests, and experience the vibrant Rolous Market before reaching the magnificent Tonle Sap Lake.

Countryside Cooking Lesson
Spend a day in the countryside, shop for ingredients at a local market, and learn to cook a delicious three-course meal.

Accommodation

15 nights at the super cool hotel called the Blancsmith Residence Siem Reap or Deluxe Twin with Terrace - King Rock Boutique Hotel ((depending on numbers) which are in the right part of town – near pub street and the night markets which are great fun.

Food

First 2 days – 3 meals included and after that breakfast and lunch included so you have the freedom to head out in the evenings. Lunch also not provided on the two Sunday’s after the kids club for flexibilty.

Days 16-21

Kratie and Sen Monorom Jungle Adventure + Elephants + Dolphins

Jungle Adventure + Elephants + Dolphins

After two exciting weeks in Siem Reap, get ready to dive into the adventure phase of your journey. Your next stop is Kratie, a charming Mekong port town and your gateway to meeting the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. 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.

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 yummy 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, marveling 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

Accommodation

Kratie: 2 nights: Mekong Dolphin Hotel
Sen Monorom: 2 nights: Green House Retreat
Hong’s House Homestay: 1 night:Hong’s House Homestay

Food

3 meals a day are provided.

Days 22-28

Phnom Penh + Kampot + Rabbit Island Cultural Immersion + Beach Bliss

Cultural Immersion + Beach Bliss

Arriving in Phnom Penh kicks off your cultural immersion with a sunset and dinner cruise along the mighty Mekong River. Glide past charming floating villages and local fishermen, soaking in the breathtaking sunset against the backdrop of the Phnom Penh skyline and royal palace—a perfect end to the day.

Your adventure continues with a cycling tour to explore the city sights, including a visit to the iconic Royal Palace. Dive into Cambodia's history with a poignant visit to the infamous Tuol Sleng museum, offering insights into the country's turbulent past.

As your journey progresses, delve into the poignant history of the Choeung Ek (Killing Fields), a solemn reminder of Cambodia's past. Then, it's off to Kampot, where you'll check into your riverside retreat and explore the charming town at your leisure.

The following day, you’ll embark on a full-day adventure to Kep, starting with a visit to the famous Kep Crab Market. Board a traditional Cambodian boat to Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island), a tranquil paradise fringed with palm trees. Spend the day relaxing on the pristine beach, soaking in the sun and sea before returning to your hotel on the mainland.

Back in Kampot, you’ll wrap up your adventure with days filled with exciting activities—paddleboarding through winding rivers, exploring mangroves, forests, and fishing villages, and enjoying a visit to a water park. You’ll end your trip with a serene sunset boat cruise accompanied by a BBQ feast before bidding farewell to Kampot and heading back to Phnom Penh for your journey home.

Accommodation

3 nights: Phnom Penh: Home Chic Hotel or similar
4 nights: Kampot: Arcadia Downtown Hostel

Food

Phnom Penh: All meals included, apart from one supper so you have the flexibility to go out.
Kampot: All meals included, apart from two suppers and two lunch so you have flexibility to go out.

Children playing with water in Cambodia.
A man cycling through the rice fields in Cambodia.
Angkor Wat at sunset in Cambodia.
Sunset view from the beach with palm trees in Cambodia.

Cambodia's Details & Costs

Our teams are a maximum of 14 per departure so don't dilly dally. Please note you need to be 18 years old or over at the time of travel.

Download Itinerary

Options and costs

Whats included?

Challenge

Head out of your comfort zone and embrace new surroundings

Cultural Exchange

Live and work beside rural communities who will welcome you into their world. This truly is an experience you won't get elsewhere.

Contrasting Environments

From Angkor Wat to the rural villages outside of Kampot to tropical islands...

The Bigger Picture

Work together with your team to create real lasting impact on our long term projects.

Time Out

There are lots of local activities and your guide will help arrange and advise from kayaking to pepper farm tours.


Our Cambodia programme is in partnership with See Asia Differently, which Peter & Eva Jones, began 8 years ago. “We wanted to create something a little different, something that matched our passion for the region. By spending time with our clients and offering a range of options, we help them avoid the well-worn path to the tourist traps and instead create bespoke experiences that capture the essence of their destination while matching their personal requirements”. They are passionate about encompassing sustainable responsible travel with lifting the lid on these exquisite destinations.

They have all the need to know contacts, and have curated a very unique adventure for us.

"Easy Peasy with The Leap"

You guys always answered questions so fast! Zoe is outstanding!! Made travelling during a pandemic easy peasy

- Hanna

"The Leap is doing a great job"

The organisation and the briefing on the entire trip was great by "the leap". I felt very well prepared and ready to start my adventure. The people in the office are very friendly and always ready to answer your questions or problems. They take care all over the trip of you and they make everything to give you the perfect time in a beautiful new world.

- Johann Plato

"This experience was life changing."

Although this is from a personal point of view, I wanted to share the great personal development this trip gave me. I believe travel and unknown/unusual environments affect and shape any individual.

It altered my being in a way i find hard to articulate, it changes you and challenges you that no 9-5 working existence ever could.

- Olivia

"So clear and straightforward "

I’d just like to say how impressed I’ve been by all your amazing organisation, plans and communication. I know she’s mainly communicated with you herself, but it’s all been so clear and straightforward – so thank you. I know this must have been an incredibly difficult time for you and I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending The Leap to any prospective Gappies in future!

- Justine Barnes

"They have the gap year formula spot on"

Speaking only for our experience with Costa Rica, The Leap know and understand the country so well. The team communicated brilliantly-they were always pro active and accessible, nothing felt like too much trouble and they never made you feel like your question or concern was a silly one.

They have the gap year formula spot on. All the reassurance that parents need whilst safely delivering the freedom and adventure that the volunteers want-and all through a Pandemic (!)

My daughter had the absolute time of her life with them and I’m sure has made friends for life, I wouldn’t hesitate in giving them the very highest recommendation possible.

- Frances (mum)

"Team were amazing"

Thanks so much for your kind email, I am sorry that I only have just seen it now! That evening was definitely a scary shock but it has now made me so much aware about going out at night.

The Leap team were also amazing and I cannot thank Chris and Meli enough for helping me both at the hospital and then the following morning when dealing with insurance. My mum is also very, very grateful that you guys have been there to help the entire time!


- Anonymous

"Absolutely loved my time in Costa Rica"

I absolutely loved my time on the Costa Rica Adventure program and have met so many amazing people. Lizzie and Carmen were such great team leaders!!

- Harriet Philpot

"One of my favorite memories from my trip to Costa Rica was the first time I released a baby turtle into the ocean"

I was immediately lucky because most baby turtles crawl out of their nests in the dead of night, so you don't get to enjoy the sight of seeing them walk to the water when it's so dark out.

When I saw my first baby turtle it was just before the sun went down, so it was still incredibly bright out! Watching all the babies push their little flippers against the sand as they fight to get to the water is something else. They are so excited to be alive! It's something so wonderfully inspiring that I will always remember.

- Madison

"I always felt in good hands"

Our daughter has had the most amazing time in Kenya, The Leap group have been fantastic with details and organization throughout, I always felt we were in good hands. The breadth of volunteering and involvement has been wonderful to see and I know this will have changed her life forever. Thank you.

- Tanya Crone

"Do it!"

Best decision I’ve made cant recommend enough. Lizzie and Carmen took the experience to another level and I’ve made life long friends in them and the rest of the group :) DO IT !!!

- Sarah Norris

"Helped my confidence so much"

Its helped so much with my confidence and I feel like I know myself better as a person. I’m leaving the trip in such a better place than when I arrived and I’m so grateful for that :)

- Isla

"Your support is very much appreciated"

We knew in choosing The Leap she was travelling with your ‘safety blanket’ and so it proved. Rachel at Trailfinders is also just the best. Very best wishes for continued success in such a challenging environment. The Leapers who are able to travel this year owe you and your team lots of gratitude for getting them away (and back!!).


- Anne ( mum )

"Well done Team Leap!!"

Thank you so much for all the hard work in getting them there! You have all been amazing. I do not underestimate how much work and pressure there has been in making this happen during such challenging times. They are now able to do something positive and rewarding during their gap year which is only possible because of The Leap.


- Paula & Lloyd

"The Leap is an awesome company who takes care of every aspect of your trip to make sure you can enjoy it to the fullest"

This trip was honestly amazing and I would highly recommend anyone to take the opportunity to do it.

I met amazing staff and locals over the 6 weeks and also amazing people who I still stay in contact with and I can’t wait to see during the rest of my travels.

The outreach was definitely a highlight as you get to explore more islands and do different activities. The locals are amazing and the sense of community and the appreciation for volunteers makes it so worth doing. I did forest conservation because I love animals and hiking but with The Leap your programme is flexible and if you prefer to teach you can switch over as well which you don’t get with other companies.

What you should know is GO THROUGH THE LEAP!

- Brooke

"​Amazing, emotional and I would do it all again "

Communication was very good before and during the trip, it was nice to know that the leap would reply quickly plus I felt very safe, the 24/7 security relaxed and settled me in. Stella, Matias and Jimmy were amazing, they made my trip!

The programmes and schools we visited were life-changing and made me appreciate what I have. The fact that we actually made a difference by raising money for an orphanage to build a well is so exciting and rewarding! And the relationships I made with the children and the other leapers I will never forget.

- Bethany

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