Cambodia

Cambodia’s spirit is embodied in the stunning, ancient temples of the Angkor Empire, a civilisation which once presided over most of present day Southeast Asia. Cambodia is our favourite country - it really gets under your skin and we've made some fantastic friends here. Aside from the Angkor Temples, it may seem as though there is little reason to visit the country, however we've found our time in Cambodia to always be a real highlight. The people are wonderful, the rural landscapes are gorgeous and its cities are Asia at its bustling best.

Cambodia gained full independence from France one year before Vietnam, in 1953, and was ruled by King Sihanouk for a peaceful ten years, until the country became embroiled in the Vietnam conflict and a coup overthrew the monarchy.  Massive corruption and the B52 carpet-bombing of eastern Cambodia enabled the renegade Khmer Rouge to gain support.  The Khmer Rouge took control of the country in 1975 and began one of the worst episodes of genocide in recent world history, until they were, in turn, overthrown by the Vietnamese in 1979.  Since UN assisted elections in 1993 and 1998, Cambodia has been stable.

The Cambodian people, for all that they’ve endured, are among the friendliest you’ll find anywhere, with a remarkable ability to put the past behind them and enjoy life. Cambodia is a fascinating and safe country to visit, and travelling here with us will be a pivotal and heart-warming experience.




Cambodia student programs, small group tours and travel

Pacific Discovery offers the following student programs and small group adventure travel tours in Cambodia. Alternatively, if you are interested in a custom tour for your high school group, university group, family or special interest group, then please contact us, as we are happy to work with you to develop an itinerary that incorporates experiences and excursions to suit your group and focus.

Addventure VSA - Cambodia volunteer tour

Get immersed in the country and culture, and contribute to a worthwhile volunteer project

'Holiday with a purpose' Add-ventures, organised by VSA and Pacific Discovery include a mix of cultural activities, sightseeing, and working on a community project. They run as 'responsible tourism' initiatives, and include a fundraising component. Involvement in Addventure VSA is all about getting involved and giving to make a difference in the world. And, in the process, you will gain the experience of a lifetime.
more »
 

Southeast Asia Semester Program

Overland educational travel through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia

Travel through the diverse and friendly Buddhist countries of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. Experience hands-on volunteer work, opportunities for meaningful connections with local people, and gaining knowledge of Southeast Asia’s history, societies and environments, plus cultural insights and incredible adventures set amidst dramatic landscapes.
more »
 

Trail of the Elephants - Southeast Asia tour

23 days travelling through Thailand, Laos and Cambodia

An evocative journey through Thailand, Laos and Cambodia’s physical and cultural landscapes. Contrast a relaxing passage down the Mekong River with riding elephants in the jungle; Modern cities and lifestyles with Buddhist monks practicing centuries old traditions; The buzz of urban Thailand with the laid back ambience of Laos; Exploring ancient jungle shrouded temples with trawling markets for antiques and textiles.
more »
 



Cambodia Travel Resources

Official Cambodia Tourism Site - A wealth of insight, information and facts about Cambodia
Destination Cambodia - Cambodia travel information from Lonely Planet

Map of Cambodia



View Larger Map