Building Hope and Exploring Cambodia

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Original price was: $979.Current price is: $875.

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Building Hope and Exploring Cambodia

This 12-day immersive journey offers a unique blend of cultural discovery and meaningful volunteer work, providing travelers with an enriching experience of Cambodia. Guided by Eagle Discovery Cambodia, participants will explore Cambodia’s iconic temples, serene landscapes, and vibrant cities while making a tangible impact in local communities. From the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat to the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, this journey promises to create not only unforgettable memories but also lasting connections with Cambodia’s people and culture.

  • Meals: Daily breakfasts, select lunches, and dinners, including a welcome dinner with APSARA dance and a farewell dinner in Siem Reap. Meals feature local Khmer specialties like Amok and fresh spring rolls.

  • Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star or boutique hotels in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, equipped with essentials like Wi-Fi and air-conditioning for a restful stay.

  • International Flights: Not included; guests should plan flights to Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for safety but not provided.
  • Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional meals during free time, and any optional activities.
  • Visa Fees: Cambodia requires a visa; this must be arranged separately by the traveler.

What to Expect

This tour offers a unique blend of culture, history, and community service. You’ll experience Cambodia’s rich heritage through guided tours, hands-on volunteering with Volunteer Building Cambodia (VBC), and immersive cultural activities like Buddhist blessing ceremonies and APSARA dance performances. Highlights include visiting the famous Angkor temples, exploring local markets, and cruising on the Mekong River. You’ll have structured activities along with personal time for exploration, allowing for a well-rounded, impactful journey.

Photos

Itinerary

  • Discover the wonders of Cambodia’s ancient temples, including the world-renowned Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple.
  • Experience hands-on volunteering by building a home for a local family with Volunteer Building Cambodia (VBC).
  • Enjoy a cultural exchange with the local community and gain insights into their daily lives.
  • Witness an awe-inspiring Cambodian circus performance, showcasing the artistry and resilience of local youth.
  • Take part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony, fostering a sense of peace and connection.
  • Explore the historic cities of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, visiting landmarks, museums, and bustling markets.
  • Relax on a sunset cruise along the Mekong River, savoring a buffet dinner while the sun dips below the horizon.

Arrive at Siem Reap International Airport, where the Eagle Discovery team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. After a brief rest, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll get your first taste of traditional Khmer cuisine. In the afternoon, visit Wat Preah Prom Rath, a 500-year-old pagoda renowned for its intricate architecture and serene setting along the Siem Reap River. Here, you’ll learn about Cambodia’s Buddhist traditions and the role of temples in local communities. In the evening, gather with the Volunteer Building Cambodia (VBC) team for an orientation, learning about their mission and the impact of your upcoming work. Conclude the evening with a traditional APSARA dance performance during a welcome dinner, bringing to life the ancient Khmer myths and folklore.

  • Accommodation: Siem Reap (3-star or boutique hotel)

Wake up early for a magical sunrise experience at Angkor Wat, where you’ll witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the temple’s intricate carvings and towering spires. Afterward, enjoy a picnic breakfast near the temple grounds before moving on to Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. Marvel at Bayon Temple with its giant stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes of ancient Cambodian life. From there, take a leisurely bike ride to Ta Prohm, famously entwined with thick tree roots, creating an atmospheric “lost in time” experience. End the day with a guided meditation session, allowing you to reflect on the day’s experiences and connect with Cambodia’s spiritual essence.

  • Accommodation: Siem Reap

Today marks the beginning of your volunteer journey with VBC, where you’ll work alongside local builders and volunteers to construct a home for a family in need. Gain hands-on experience in sustainable building techniques and learn about the lives of the people you are helping. Enjoy a picnic lunch on-site, giving you a chance to bond with fellow volunteers and local workers. In the evening, witness a thrilling performance by the Phare Cambodian Circus, where talented young artists use art to tell powerful stories of resilience and hope. This circus provides training and opportunities to marginalized youth, making your evening both entertaining and impactful.

  • Accommodation: Siem Reap

Continue the rewarding work on the home-building project, adding important finishing touches and learning the value of community resilience and teamwork. After a fulfilling day, return to Siem Reap to freshen up. For dinner, explore the bustling Night Market, a vibrant maze of stalls offering everything from local handicrafts to street food. Sample some local delicacies, pick up souvenirs and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

  • Accommodation: Siem Reap

Today is a special day as you celebrate the completion of the home with a housewarming ceremony. Local Buddhist monks will conduct a blessing ceremony for the family, a traditional rite that brings peace and prosperity. This moment marks the culmination of your hard work and leaves a lasting impact on the community. Following the ceremony, receive a certificate of appreciation from VBC as a keepsake. The afternoon includes visits to the APOPO Center, where you’ll learn about the organization’s innovative work in detecting landmines, and the War Museum, offering insights into Cambodia’s history of conflict and resilience.

  • Accommodation: Siem Reap

Spend the morning at the VBC Community Centre for a cultural exchange program. Engage in activities with local children and adults, sharing stories, games, and cultural practices. After a traditional lunch, head to Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Explore the unique floating villages, where homes, schools, and temples float on the water, showcasing an incredible way of life adapted to seasonal changes. Enjoy a scenic sunset over the lake before returning to Siem Reap.

  • Accommodation: Siem Reap

Set off on a day trip to Kulen Mountain, a sacred site and natural treasure. Visit the impressive Phnom Kulen Waterfall and the River of 1000 Lingas, where ancient carvings are etched into the riverbed. Climb to Preah Ang Thom, a giant reclining Buddha statue offering panoramic views of the lush surroundings. Take a refreshing dip in the waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch. In the evening, gather with your group for a farewell dinner in Siem Reap, celebrating the memories and friendships made during your journey.

  • Accommodation: Siem Reap

Travel to Phnom Penh by private bus, with stops at notable points of interest along the way. Visit the Spean Kampong Kdey Bridge, an ancient stone bridge dating back to the Angkor period. Continue to Spider Village in Skun, where adventurous travelers can sample unique local delicacies such as fried tarantulas.

  • Accommodation: Phnom Penh

Spend the day at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, a sanctuary for rescued animals, including endangered species. Supported by the Care Bear organization, the center rehabilitates animals saved from illegal trafficking. Get a close-up view of elephants, tigers, and gibbons, learning about ongoing efforts to protect Cambodia’s biodiversity.

  • Accommodation: Phnom Penh

Explore Phnom Penh’s regal and historical sites, beginning with the Royal Palace, home to the Silver Pagoda and a dazzling collection of Khmer artifacts. Visit the National Museum to deepen your understanding of Cambodia’s history, and then head to Wat Phnom, a sacred site with beautiful views of the city. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong River, complete with a buffet dinner as you take in the tranquil sights along the river.

  • Accommodation: Phnom Penh

Visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), and learn about the tragedies and resilience that shaped modern Cambodia. These sites serve as a sobering reminder of Cambodia’s past and the strength of its people. Conclude the day with a visit to the Russian Market, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and unique mementos.

  • Accommodation: Phnom Penh

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Our team will assist with airport transfers, and you’ll depart with memories of a journey that blended cultural discovery and meaningful contribution.

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Building Hope and Exploring Cambodia