Cambodia

High School Program

This transformative program in Cambodia takes students on a journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most culturally rich and historically significant countries. Students will have the opportunity to explore Cambodia’s ancient temples, bustling markets, and lush landscapes while engaging deeply with its people and communities. The program is designed to provide students with a hands-on learning experience, focusing on themes such as social justice, sustainable development, and cultural preservation. Through interactive workshops, immersive activities, and meaningful service projects, students will gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s complex past and its dynamic efforts towards building a sustainable future.

Social Justice and Sustainable Development

Cambodia’s history is marked by resilience and transformation, and students will explore how the country is rebuilding itself through innovative grassroots efforts. From working with local NGOs to participating in community-led initiatives, students will learn about the challenges Cambodians face and the solutions they are implementing. This theme encourages students to think critically about global issues and understand the importance of sustainable development as a pathway to creating just and equitable societies.


About Cambodia

Cambodia is a country of profound beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for its iconic Angkor Wat temples, vibrant cities like Phnom Penh, and warm hospitality, Cambodia offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern development. Beyond its stunning landscapes and architecture, Cambodia’s story is also one of resilience. Following decades of conflict, the country is now on a path of rebuilding, focusing on sustainable growth and community empowerment. This program invites students to explore Cambodia’s past and present while contributing to its future through engaging and impactful learning experiences.

Theme alternatives

Fully customizable authentic experiences

At Insight, our program itineraries are as unique as your students. All our program itineraries are customized with teacher chaperones to ensure that it meets the needs of your students.

With the support of a variety of local vendors and NGO’s, we promise that your students will get an authentic, local experience.

What's included

All our trips include:

Program highlights

  • Witness the stunning beauty of Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most famous temple complex at sunrise. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the Khmer Empire’s architectural and cultural legacy.
  • Visit key sites such as the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields to understand Cambodia’s recent history and engage in discussions on human rights and social justice.
  • Engage with local artisans and participate in traditional Cambodian dance and crafts workshops. Gain insight into the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering intercultural understanding.
  • Collaborate with Cambodian NGOs working in fields such as education, public health, and environmental conservation. Contribute to ongoing projects, gaining a practical understanding of the impact of sustainable development and grassroots efforts.

How it works

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Want to take your students outside the classroom? Review our program locations and suggested themes.

Connect with one of our High School Educators who will help custom design your program.

With our assistance, submit required paperwork and details to your Administration and School Board.

Announce the trip to your students! (We’ll provide all the materials you need).

Invite us to your school to host a Student & Parent Info Night! We will be there to answer questions and support student sign-up!

Sample Itinerary

Embark on your journey from home to Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

As you cross the international dateline, the day is lost in travel, but don’t worry, you’ll get it back on your way home.

Arrive in Phnom Penh, the heart of Cambodia’s storied past. After settling in, you’ll receive an orientation on the cultural norms and the overarching question that will guide your exploration: How do the enduring effects of conflict shape a country’s path toward development? Head to dinner for an authentic Cambodian feast.

Delve into Phnom Penh’s rich history with a city tour, visiting landmarks that tell the story of Cambodia’s royal past and recent struggles. At a social enterprise, see how creativity and innovation are empowering the next generation, providing a hopeful glimpse into Cambodia’s future. An afternoon visit to the U.S. Embassy will further explore the role of diplomacy in fostering development.

Visit the haunting Killing Fields, a powerful reminder of Cambodia’s tragic history. Reflect on how this past continues to influence the nation’s journey toward recovery. In the afternoon, participate in a workshop where you’ll learn how local innovators are working to create sustainable futures, leveraging Cambodia’s cultural heritage as a foundation for growth.

Travel to Siem Reap and explore how sports are being used to promote gender equality and social change in a country still grappling with the aftereffects of conflict. Engage with local youth in a program where sports become a tool for fostering education, mental strength, and community cohesion.

Participate in discussions with local organizations, learning how they use sport and education to challenge gender norms and empower youth. Visit the APOPO Museum to understand the lingering danger of landmines and the innovative ways Cambodia is addressing this issue. The day emphasizes the resilience and ingenuity of the Cambodian people in overcoming the legacies of conflict.

Experience the majesty of Angkor Wat at sunrise, where the spiritual and cultural heritage of Cambodia shines brightest. Later, engage with circus performers, who use art to heal and tell stories of resistance, resilience, and recovery. This day highlights how cultural traditions and creative expression can play a crucial role in a country’s path toward development.

Join a community event focused on “playing fair,” where sports are a means of promoting inclusivity and understanding. In the afternoon, visit the Kulen Elephant Forest to see how conservation efforts reflect Cambodia’s changing relationship with its natural and cultural heritage, symbolizing a broader movement toward a more sustainable future.

As your journey through Cambodia comes to an end, reflect on how the insights and experiences you’ve gained will continue to resonate as you return home.

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