Help Care for Rescued Animals when you volunteer at the Cambodia Cat & Dog Welfare Project!
Volunteer to help care for rescued dogs & cats in Siem Reap at the Cambodia Dog and Cat Rescue Shelter!
1 to 12 weeks from £450 / US$495
The Animal Shelter works towards rescue and rehabilitation of animals in Cambodia. The sanctuary is home to 100+ animals rescued from neglect in Siem Reap. The project also works in the community to provide healthcare to local animals.
Questions? Jim is happy to help! E-mail me at info@globalteer.org
Project Overview
Volunteer to help end the suffering of animals in Cambodia at the House of Strays Rescue Sanctuary!
Work alongside the dedicated team at the sanctuary to help feed, clean and care for the rescued animals. You’ll help them care for the dogs, cats and chickens and ultimately help them work towards improving animal rights in Cambodia.
Volunteering at this animal welfare project provides an unforgettable experience for those who wish to help dogs & cats. You will live and work in the historic town of Siem Reap for a truly life changing experience!
Volunteering
As a volunteer at the rescue shelter, you will help take care of the rescued dogs, cats and other animals in the Siem Reap sanctuary. It is the only physical shelter for animals with disabilities in Siem Reap. The project has been rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for abandoned and neglected animals for several years, who would otherwise be without help.
This programme is well suited to volunteers who love animals and are passionate about animal rights. If you are looking for a programme where you provide hands-on care to animals, your support will be integral to the functioning of the sanctuary!
Animal Welfare
The project is dedicated to promoting animal welfare and advocating for animal rights. The rescue shelter in Siem Reap, Cambodia, serves as a safe haven for over 100 animals that have been rescued from neglect. As the only physical shelter in Siem Reap, the project is committed to providing care and rehabilitation for stray animals, funding medical treatment for animals in need, and supporting local families who are struggling to treat their sick and injured pets.
The prevention efforts include vaccinations, deworming, and neutering to prevent the spread of disease and reduce the number of animals born into suffering on the streets. The rescue home is where these animals receive lifesaving rehabilitation and have the chance to be adopted into loving homes.
Recovering animals
Taking care of the recovering animals is a big job! Which is where the volunteers help is greatly needed; caring for the animals is vital work. Volunteers help with feeding, cleaning, nursing kittens, giving basic medication and most importantly; giving them love and affection.
Some animals have been through traumatising experiences and may be wary of humans. By spending time with them and showing them love you will be helping to build their trust in humans again and increase their chances of being adopted into their forever home!
Join us to help give the animals of Cambodia a better life!
In addition to rescuing and caring for sick and injured animals the project also focuses on a long term, sustainable solution to the problem. The project works in the community providing healthcare and neutering programmes to improve animal rights in Cambodia!
Summary of the Cambodia Dog & Cat Rescue Shelter
The Project: Help care for rescued dogs & cats in Siem Reap at the Cambodia Animal Welfare Project! The Cambodia Dog & Cat Welfare Project aims to create sustainable animal welfare in Cambodia and end the suffering of the street cats and dogs. In addition to caring for rescued street cats and dogs, the project is also tackling the problem of overpopulation through neutering and working to improve animal welfare in the community.
Project Location: In and around the charming town of Siem Reap in Northern Cambodia. Home to the incomparable UNESCO world heritage-listed Angkor Wat temple complex. There is an international airport with good connections to the capital Phnom Penh and throughout Asia. Siem Reap has a good range of facilities for visitors. These include a variety of shops, excellent restaurants, lively and traditional bars and plenty of unique sightseeing opportunities. There are also good medical facilities in the town, should you need them.
Volunteering with Rescued Dogs & Cats
Main Volunteer Activities: Volunteers work with the local staff, assisting them with feeding, cleaning, walking, and playing with and socialising the animals. Volunteers can also get involved with neutering, de-worming and animal welfare campaigns that may be taking place during your stay.
Hours: Volunteers usually work Mon-Fri for 4-5 hours per day in the mornings.
Duration: Volunteer placements are year-round for 1 to 12 weeks.
Volunteer Accommodation: The most popular accommodation is in our very own Volunteer House. Or you can choose from a private ensuite room in a locally owned hotel with outdoor pool. Or upgrade to a more upmarket hotel, also with outdoor pool.
Requirements to volunteer in Cambodia: Volunteers at this project must be aged 18+ and speak English.
The Cambodia Dog & Cat Rescue Shelter
The project was founded by an English couple, Georgia & Billy after travelling in South East Asia. After feeding and befriending stray animals and visiting many rescue shelters, they ended up in Cambodia and set up their own animal rescue shelter.
The shelter is now home to over 100 animals. Some animals will live out their lives at the shelter although successful adoption is key in creating space for more animals and continuing the mission.
The community outreach programme has no limits in how far the reach around Cambodia. If an animal is suffering in Cambodia, the project will do anything possible to make a successful rescue.
The project aims to vaccinate and de-sex animals to prevent suffering by decreasing Cambodia’s stray population. The shelter's work is not limited to stray cats and dogs but extends to every animal in need.
Animal Rights in Cambodia
Injured & sick animals, as well as litters of unwanted kittens and puppies are left at local pagodas. It is a common misconception that pagodas are a safe haven which encourages many people to dump animals there. And while the Monks and caretakers want to help, they often lack the resources and ability to care for the animals. Within the pagodas there is generally a scarcity of food, over-crowding and infectious disease that lead to high mortality rates among the dogs and cats left there.
Another major issue in Cambodia is access to resources that allow people to seek proper medical care for animals, due to the lack of affordable veterinary care, the lack of normalisation of going to a veterinarian, and the state of veterinary education standards in Cambodia. This means when animals are sick, even those animals that have homes and caretakers, they are unable to receive medical treatment thus resulting in sick animals who are left on the street or are sold. There are currently few animal protection laws for most animal species in Cambodia except for some protected wild animal species. Animal neglect and sometimes even abuse are widespread, particularly in the meat trade.
How the Project is Helping
The project is the only sanctuary for injured and abused animals in Siem Reap. Rescued animals are rehabilitated and, where possible, adopted to forever homes. With over 100 animals including permanent residents that are unable to find adopted homes, the sanctuary is a vital part of the welfare of animals in Siem Reap.
The project also helps dogs and cats in the community by proving healthcare and neutering to prevent the suffering of animals. Tackling the over population problem is a vital part of any dog and cat welfare project.
Why the project needs volunteers
Any visitor to Cambodia will tell you that there are a lot of stray cats and dogs on the streets, and without education and improved care the problem will only continue to get worse. The Cambodia cat and dog rescue project is working to improve this problem. Having volunteers to help at the project allows more time to be given to interacting with and socialising the animals which plays a vital role in helping the animals trust humans again; making it more likely they will be able to be adopted into their forever homes. Having volunteers to help with the general feeding and care also frees up the local staff’s time to focus on the animals needing more serious care or treatment.
Additionally, as the project receives no funding from the government, the Cambodia cat and dog rescue relies on volunteer support, private donations, and grants in order to fund their important work. Long after volunteers have left, the project can continue paying wages, providing care and treatment to the cats and dogs who need it.
By volunteering at the Cambodia Cat & Dog Welfare Project you will play an important part in the future of animal welfare in Cambodia.
Typical Volunteer Duties
Volunteers work alongside the full-time staff assisting with feeding the dogs and cats. Additionally, volunteers assist with walking, playing with, and socialising the dogs and cats as well as keeping the sanctuary clean. Volunteers can also get involved with sterilisation, de-worming and other campaigns that may be taking place during their stay.
Volunteers usually work 4-5 hours per day at the dog shelter, Monday to Friday with weekends free. Volunteers normally start at 8.30am and finish around 12.30pm. Exact times can vary depending upon the activities happening at the shelter during your time there.
Volunteer roles vary depending upon the needs of the dog & cat rescue shelter and your relevant skills and abilities.
Your main duties as a volunteer may include some or all of the following:
- Preparing food and feeding the dogs & cats.
- Keeping the sanctuary clean.
- Basic medical care.
- Walking the dogs.
- Playing with the dogs & cats.
- Socialisation of the animals.
- Fundraising campaigns.
Learn more about volunteering in Cambodia
Globalteer has been working in Cambodia since 2006. We have a wealth of experience in this amazing country. If you want to volunteer with dogs & cats, then come and join our amazing team in Cambodia.
Learn about what it was like for volunteers when they received a Blessing from a Monk in Siem Reap's oldest working Buddhist temple.
Get to know when is the Best Time to go to Cambodia and experience it's rich and ancient culture.
Accommodations when you Volunteer in Siem Reap with Globalteer
Volunteers at the Siem Reap projects can choose from a range of accommodation options including our very own Volunteer House, a private room in a Standard Hotel and an Upgrade Hotel. All accommodation has been carefully selected by us to offer the best value for all our volunteers regardless of budget. So if you are looking for somewhere quiet to lay your head at the end of a busy day, somewhere lively where you can socialise with other travellers, we have what you are looking for. All of our accommodations are clean, comfortable and safe and well located for transport to the project as well as all the attractions that Siem Reap has to offer. When you volunteer in Siem Reap, you can choose one of these great accommodation options:
Globalteer’s Volunteer House
One of our most popular option for people coming to volunteer in Siem Reap is our very own Volunteer House. You will be sharing the house with other volunteers all coming from different parts of the world!
The volunteer house is located in a quiet residential area around National Road 6 and 6km from Angkor International Airport. It is situated far enough from the hustle-bustle and noise of the main markets, giving it a peaceful setting. However, the area has available markets, convenience stores, and not too far from the numerous temples inside the city.
The house has 3 bedrooms that are shared with other volunteers. Wi-Fi is free and accessible throughout the property. All rooms have fans, en-suite bathrooms, towels and linens. The Volunteer House also features a shared kitchen, balcony as well as a large garden area.
This option is great if you are looking for cultural exchange with like-minded people in a safe and enjoyable environment.
The Standard Hotel
The standard hotel is in a popular Cambodian-owned Guest House, close to Globalteer’s offices in Siem Reap. Rooms are single occupancy or can be shared if volunteers are travelling together.
Volunteer rooms are clean and comfortable, each with hot water, ensuite toilet and shower. The rooms have fans but you can upgrade it to air conditioning for a daily fee. Cable TV is available in all rooms with channels in English, and each room has a small fridge for storing cold drinks and snacks. The guest house also has several larger air-con rooms which are assigned on a first-come first-served basis to guests who pay the additional fee for air conditioning. Make sure you specify if you would like an aircon room when you apply.
The guest house has a bar area and restaurant, all set in lovely leafy grounds. Globalteer volunteers also have use of our very own social area - just right for a drink and snack after a long day working at your project. There is also a small pool for that refreshing end of day dip!
There are also plenty of Khmer restaurants near the guest house if you fancy "going local" in the evenings. Free WiFi internet is available in rooms and in communal areas. We also have a team of friendly and reliable tuk-tuk drivers on hand with specially negotiated rates should you need transport at any time.
Our Upgrade Accommodation
We know that some volunteers prefer a few more creature comforts when they get to the end of a long, hard day working at their project. To be honest, if you are generous enough to donate your time and money to volunteer with us, then you deserve to be as comfortable as possible during your placement!
Upgrade volunteer rooms offer a higher standard of comfort and more facilities for volunteers who don’t mind paying a little extra. Rooms are spacious with large beds, cable TV, free wi-fi, in-room safe, tea and coffee making facilities. The rooms have modern en-suite bathrooms that are spotlessly clean. Air-conditioning comes as standard – there are no surcharges to pay here. Rooms also offer a desk which is convenient for planning your volunteer sessions or writing postcards and journal entries.
The hotel has a beautiful swimming pool and poolside bar and a restaurant. It serves free breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a good variety of reasonably priced Cambodian and international dishes.
Free Time when you volunteer in Cambodia
When you volunteer in Cambodia, you will work with our team in Siem Reap. All very well travelled throughout the country and further afield in Southeast Asia and can offer plenty of travel tips. There are lots of options for weekends in the town as well as for travel before or after your placement. Here are just a few of Cambodia’s treasures to whet your appetite.
Siem Reap
Angkor Wat and the temple complexes
Most visitors come to Cambodia to visit the temples of Angkor. There are over 100 temples scattered in the area in various states of decay; some in overgrown jungle, some on lakes. Rest assured everyone leaves with their own personal favourite temple!
Some people visit for one day to see the main attractions. We would recommend 3 days exploring the temples to get a much better overview of this incredible period in Cambodian history. On arrival, our friendly staff can advise the best ways and times to visit the temples.
Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap is the largest fresh water lake in Southeast Asia and an attraction in its own right. About 10km from the town, the lake stretches almost as far as the country's capital Phnom Penh. Its size varies enormously between the wet and dry seasons and half the year the waters flow into the lake from the river Mekong. For the rest of the year, the waters flow in the other direction, giving the lake a unique ecosystem.
Boat trips on the lake are very popular and you can visit lake the famous floating villages and stilt villages. Originally home to refugees which have grown into entire communities with schools, shops and houses sitting directly on or over the water. Also venture further to see the wildlife sanctuary which is home to several species of endangered birds. You can also take a kayak through the famous sunken forests.
More great things to do in Siem Reap
For a small town, there are lots of things happening in Siem Reap!
From water festivals, dragon boat racing, Buddhist festivals, Apsara dancing to the biggest festival of all at Khmer New Year.
For a low down of events, you can read our blog on the Best Time to go to Cambodia to help you decide when to volunteer.
You could be there for the Siem Reap Puppet Parade or the Pchum Ben Festival honouring the dead.
Further Afield
For a small country, Cambodia has a lot to offer those who have time to travel further afield.
Phnom Penh is a short flight away or 6-8 hours by road and is home to many popular attractions. The magnificent Royal Palace and the restaurants and bars along Sisowath Quay are on every visitor's list. Along with the more sombre sites of S-21 prison and the Killing fields; reminders of Cambodia's tragic past and the genocide under the Khmer Rouge Regime.
In the south of the country, you will find the laid back coastal towns of Kampot and Kep. As well as the lively beach resort of Sihanoukville. There are some lovely unspoilt islands where you can kick back and recharge your batteries. You can also find jungles, forests and the wildlife havens of The Cardamom Mountains. Buses and internal flights from Siem Reap airport make getting around easy and relatively cheap.
For those who have time, there are also regular direct flights from Siem Reap to other must-see Southeast Asian destinations; such as Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore as well as long distance buses.
Fee Options
Base Donation
The base donation for volunteering is where all money received goes to the charity, our charitable activities, charity partners and supporting volunteers in country. Your daily transport to the project is also included.
Standard Package
The standard package fee includes everything in the base donation plus standard hotel accommodation & private airport collection.
Standard Package plus AirCon
The standard hotel does not include air-conditioning but this can be added on. We recommend that you book this early as their are limited number of air-con rooms.
Upgrade Hotel
Volunteers can also choose to upgrade their accommodation to a hotel which includes more facilities, larger rooms and air-conditioning. Accommodations are carefully selected by our team in Cambodia for their great locations, suitability for volunteers and value for money.
Financial Transparency
As a UK registered Charity, Globalteer is completely financially transparent to you, our donors. You can therefore see a full breakdown of where your money goes and our independently audited accounts by clicking below:
To discover why you should consider choosing Globalteer, please visit the following page:
Why do we charge a fee for volunteering?
Globalteer requests a donation from volunteers to allow us to achieve our charitable objectives and support our partner programmes. In return, Globalteer provides volunteers with an amazing, responsible and ethical volunteer experience and in-country support from the Globalteer team in Cambodia. Ensuring that your placement is responsible as well as rewarding, safe and enjoyable takes a good deal of work.
A summary of Globalteer’s total expenditure for the last financial year is shown below:
Donations and Grants 60% – This includes a share of volunteer placement fees, grants we have secured for our projects and donations managed by Globalteer that are made by individuals and groups to our projects and partner projects.
Support Costs 29% – This includes volunteer accommodation, volunteer transport, support staff costs, travel costs and some volunteer meals.
Operational Costs 11% – Costs of running Globalteer.
What’s Included
- In-country support from Globalteer staff.
- Cambodia orientation guide and arrival induction.
- Free town tour.
- All necessary project equipment and materials.
- All necessary project training by project staff.
- Project donation.
With the Full Package
- Free airport pick up from Siem Reap airport.
- Accommodation
What’s not included
- Flights
- Medical and travel insurance
- Vaccinations and inoculations
- Onward transport at the end of your placement
- Police or background check (where necessary)
What do everyday items cost?
The official currency of Cambodia is the Riel, however, all shops and market stalls accept US$ and you may be given small change in local currency ($1 = 4000 Riels). Be aware that dollar bills with any tears or markings are generally not accepted. ATMs dispense cash in US$. The cost of living in Cambodia is very low compared to most countries in the developed world. The costs of some typical items are:
- Short journey by tuk-tuk - $1 to $2
- Meal in a market - $1
- Bottle of soft drink - $0.50 to $1
- Draft beer - $0.50 to $2
- Meal in a restaurant - $4 to $25
Quick Summary of the Cambodia Cat & Dog Rescue Project
The Cambodia Dog & Cat rescue shelter aims to create sustainable animal welfare in Cambodia and end the suffering of the street cats and dogs.
In addition to caring for rescued street cats and dogs, the project is also tackling the problem of overpopulation through neutering and working to improve animal welfare in Cambodia
Volunteers Help care for the rescued dogs & cats at the project.
The project is located in the charming town of Siem Reap in Northern Cambodia. Home to the incomparable UNESCO world heritage-listed Angkor Wat temple complex.
Volunteers at the Siem Reap Projects can choose from a range of accommodation options including our very own Volunteer House, a standard hotel room and upgrade hotel room.
All of our accommodations are clean, comfortable and safe and well located for transport to the project as well as the Globalteer's office
What’s Included in the base package:
√ In-country support from Globalteer staff in Siem Reap. √ Cambodia orientation guide and induction on arrival. √ Free Siem Reap town tour. √ All necessary project equipment and materials. √ All necessary project training by experienced staff. √ Globalteer water bottle and welcome pack. √ Project donation. √ Daily transport to and from your project.
With the Accommodation Packages
√ Free airport pick up from Siem Reap international airport. √ Accommodation in the Volunteer House or at a hotel with a pool.
We have a list of answers to questions frequently asked about the project.
Frequently Asked QuestionsYou can come to the project and help!
To apply click here: Apply nowReal Reviews of Globalteer on Volunteer's Social Media
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The benefits of doing this work through Globalteer were many. I worked on the clean water project in Siem Reap... read more in October 2018 and it was one of the most satisfying experiences I've ever had. Although the water project was with another NGO (with who Globalteer is a partner), the benefits of doing this work through Globalteer were many. As a woman doing this adventure on my own I was part of the Globalteer family and very well looked after. Having that security mattered. The accommodation was terrific, the Globalteer volunteer co-ordinator who was my go-to person (the wonderful Theavy) was amazing, meeting and socialising with other volunteers was huge fun and spending some time with Chris, the country manager, was educational and insightful. I'm going back this year to do it all again. Can't wait to see old friends and meet new ones while making a tangible difference to the lives of many. read less
Justine Auton
1/14/2018 -
Wish others would also be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience! I can’t stop talking & thinking about this amazing experience... read more I had! I volunteered with Picaflor House in November 2018 for couple of weeks Globalteer team put children into their heart and they direct you accordingly during your volunteer program. The kids are amazing, teachers are so helpful and everything is so well organized that you don’t have anything to worry about. Wish others would also find the opportunity and be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience! Thanks much for this great experience read less
burcu eren
1/10/2019 -
Well organised, really helpful and welcoming staff. I had an amazing experience volunteering with Globalteer earlier this... read more year. Well organised, really helpful and welcoming staff and a great range of really worthwhile and sustainable projects! Definitely recommend!!! read less
Jessica Robinson
1/12/2018 -
All the staff and volunteers I worked with were very friendly and supportive. My time spent volunteering in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with Globalteer... read more was one of the most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I've had. Volunteering in local schools allowed me to see parts of the area that I wouldn't have been able to as a tourist, and coaching sports to the school children offered me a chance to interact with locals and engage in their culture. Communication with Globalteer leading up to and during my trip was easy and constant. All the staff and volunteers I worked with were very friendly and supportive, always eager to help me out with any issues or concerns I had. Free time during the evenings and weekends allowed me to explore and enjoy what Siem Reap has to offer. I would definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone wishing to immerse themselves in a new culture, step out their comfort zone and make a difference to the local area! read less
Colin Elkington
1/13/2018 -
The staff working there are dedicated but also good fun. What an amazing experience! We spent a week with this... read more incredible sanctuary in August 2018. The passion for the animals in the care of this rescue sanctuary is genuine and heartfelt. The staff working there dedicated but also good fun. Loved the interactions with the monkeys, deer, and birds and building the monkey house for the howlers, I hope they enjoy it for many years to come. I strongly recommend anyone who is visiting Peru and wants to genuinely help wild animals to be returned back to their natural habitat to spend time here. read less
Hercules Moriarty
9/22/2018 -
I had an amazing time and look forward to volunteering with Globalteer again in the future! I volunteered with the Peru Community Project out of Cuzco... read more for 5 weeks. I was so impressed with the amazing work they are doing at Picaflor and how well the kids and the community responded to the project. Furthermore, I was grateful for how helpful and welcoming the staff was. I had an amazing time and look forward to volunteering with Globalteer again in the future! read less
Lauren Franklin
6/30/2017 -
Globalteer employ members of staff who themselves have a passion for travelling. Having chosen to spend three-weeks volunteering on a Cambodia Community... read more Project in Siem Reap, a perfect school placement was found, which allowed me to gain one of my most memorable life experiences to date. The regional Globalteer team in Asia managed to find an excellent placement school, which not only allowed me to gain new skills, but also share my teacher training experiences with others. From the moment I landed in Siem Reap, the local Globalteer helped me to settle in, and remained available as a support network, as well as my fellow volunteers. Regular catch-up nights meant that a shared social life was available. Such events facilitated wide-ranging conversations between volunteers who were working on a range of different projects whilst in town. At the same time, space was afforded for each volunteer to shape their own experiences. Globalteer employ members of staff who themselves have a passion for travelling and volunteering, and it’s this methodology that helps create a great experience for their volunteers. It’s therefore my pleasure to highly recommend Globalteer projects to future volunteers. read less
Nathan Crook
1/25/2018 -
Everything was well organised from day one and any special requirements were met with ease. Volunteering with Globalteer at Picaflor House was an incredible experience... read more - everything was well organised from day one and any special requirements were met with ease. I can fully recommend volunteering with them to anyone who wishes to spend their time and energy on a worthwhile charity project! read less
Hannah Verity Stone
6/30/2017 -
I felt very much taken care of and I met amazing people who worked on other Globalteer projects. Coming from a country with very few organisations that offer... read more international volunteering jobs (Austria), I had to trust online reviews from other volunteers when I tried to find a suitable project for my sabbatical. And in my research, Globalteer was described as a very reliable organisation which offers an authentic insight into the countries where it operates. As a volunteer of the Cambodia Community Project for 4 weeks where I worked as a teacher in the rural Helping Hands Cambodia School outside of Siem Reap, I can only say that I had made the best choice. Everyting worked out perfectly - all my questions were answered promptly before my stay, I felt very much taken care of during the project and I met amazing people who worked on other Globalteer projects and they have all become an important part of my life. I think my teaching job out there in the country couldn't have given me a better insight into the life of this young country. I feel very much connected with the teachers and especially these fantastic kids that I met and since my return I have been following all their projects very closely. Should you want to know more about my volunteering experience with Globalteer, you can visit my blog, which you find if you google for: evaoff4abit.wordpress read less
Eva Deix
1/14/2018 -
The whole experience was fantastic from start to finish. All the Globalteer staff made me feel really welcome. I spent a couple of weeks volunteering at the Helping... read more Hands School just outside Siem Reap. The whole experience was fantastic from start to finish. All the Globalteer staff made me feel really welcome and were always on hand to answer any questions. The school itself was really well run and the kids were brilliant to work with. It felt like such a worthwhile way to spend my holiday. Will definitely be going back! read less
Holly Bygrave
7/26/2018 -
They are great in every way. I have worked with them twice and I am counting down the days until I return next. Working with Globalteer and Picaflor house is amazing. They're great... read more in every way. I've worked with them during two extended stays in Peru and I'm counting down the days until I return next. read less
Jeff Bartlett
6/30/2017 -
I would most definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone who is interested in volunteering. My experience with Globalteer was amazing and I've volunteered with... read more them two years in a row now in Siem Reap. The staff are incredible and very accommodating which definitely made the idea of travelling to a new country alone a lot less daunting. The projects they have really immerse you into Cambodian culture as you're working with locals so you get the opportunity to really see how the Khmer live. Siem Reap itself is a wonderful town with plenty of restaurants, local and western, and an endless list of things to do. I would most definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone who's interested in volunteering. read less
A.N. Barry
1/14/2018 -
It was a life-changing experience for me, one that I will never forget. I absolutely loved my time volunteering in Cambodia with Globalteer!... read more I worked at Helping Hands School in a rural village outside of Siem Reap--very different from my native New York City. Globalteer representatives Jillian and Theavy worked with me to find a placement that allowed me to use my skill set. I am a School Librarian, and I was able to start a lending library with books that had been donated by students at my school in New York. I also assisted with English classes. The Globalteer staff was supportive, and the students and teachers were absolutely amazing. It was a life-changing experience for me, one that I will never forget. read less
Ann Quinlivan
5/31/2018 -
Had a great time and was happy to support such a worthwhile project. Having done lots of research on volunteer projects, I decided... read more that this program was the best for me. Globalteer was different to the other organisations, they are a registered charity so I felt straight away that I had some trust in them. They did not disappoint, I had a great time and was happy to support such a worthwhile project. read less
Diego Alonso
11/13/2017 -
I think it speaks volumes for the quality and impact of the experience, that I returned for a second trip! I first volunteered at Picaflor House Children's Community Project in... read more Peru in 2014, as a solo traveller, staying in Cusco for two months. I think it speaks volumes for the quality and impact of the experience, that I returned for a second trip at the end of last year - this time for just two weeks, but with my husband, as part of a wider trip through South America. Two very different visits, but both equally rewarding and life-changing. During my first trip, I met with a wide variety of lovely volunteers from all over the world, some of whom I am still in touch with today. In contrast, on our recent trip, we were the only volunteers. However, this allowed us to sample a broad range of experience at the project, and the opportunity to take more responsibility - we got to run two days worth of Art lessons which was great fun, and a real eye-opener, especially for my husband, who had no previous classroom experience. The volunteering at Picaflor is very flexible - our individual skills were used to their best advantage. I focussed on the English classes, using my language and communication training to the full, and my husband worked in the Nursery class, supporting the children to develop their social and practical skills (and honing his fledgling Spanish). In addition, on my first much longer trip, I was able to take the odd day off, enabling me to take in the local art and culture by visiting places of interest further afield. Picaflor House is a really valuable resource for Oropesa. It provides occupation and fun for the children in the afternoon after their school day finishes, allowing parents to work full days, and provides extra academic support, especially with English - particularly important as it enables the children to get better jobs when they leave school. The children at Picaflor are extremely lively (expect more noise, and less formal seated activity than in your average British school), but on both trips we particularly enjoyed the sporting days (as did the children!) on Fridays when everybody came together to play volleyball, football, and to skip, play on the swings and slide, and to dig in the sandpit - Chris enjoyed a particularly muscle-building day breaking up and raking the sand for the children, and I enjoyed a spot of gardening - as I said the experience was very varied! The regular, permanent staff at Picaflor are particularly supportive. We were prepared well in advance - I particularly needed this reassurance on my first trip alone, and even though on my second trip, I knew where everything was, we were confident that we could still access any extra help if needed. As a couple, we received an especially warm welcome on my return, and would definitely consider a third visit in the future. I would highly recommend Picaflor to future volunteers 🙂 read less
Katharine Hughes
2/28/2018 -
Globalteer were there every step of the way to help facilitate everything. Such a rewarding experience. Candice and Globalteer were there every... read more step of the way to help facilitate everything. Spent 2 weeks at a dog rescue in Cusco, Peru. I highly recommend them! read less
Peter DiFrancesca
7/10/2017 -
It was a huge eye opener and I would do it again in a heartbeat! I volunteered with Globalteer in Cambodia last year and I... read more had an amazing experience. Every member of the team there were so hospitable and friendly, that it made it feel like a home from home. I worked on two projects, building waterfilters and the women's empowerment program, where we made intricate products with the locals from plastic bags! It was a huge eye opener and I would do it again in a heartbeat! read less
Fiona Mehmet
1/16/2018 -
The Globalteer staff was extremely friendly, helpful, and made me feel right at home. One of the best experiences I've ever had! The Globalteer... read more staff was extremely friendly, helpful, and made me feel right at home. Whenever there was an event going on, they always made me feel included. Such an amazing experience helping animals and being in such a great city. read less
Anna Von Foerster
6/30/2017 -
Great organisation making a real difference. Great organisation making a real difference in Peru.
Nick James
12/20/2017 -
Would highly recommend them to anyone considering volunteering abroad. A wonderful organisation that's truly dedicated to helping the communities... read more they work with. They ensure the volunteers are contributing as much as possible and putting their skills to the best possible use. I had an incredible experience with Globalteer and would highly recommend them to anyone considering volunteering abroad. read less
Anna Hilbert
9/30/2019 -
If you’re considering getting involved, just do it! I guarantee you won’t regret it. I had an AMAZING experience volunteering on two different projects... read more with Globalteer. You really get to experience life in a completely different culture, whilst making a significant difference to the projects and local communities. The Globalteer staff are all so helpful and welcoming, and the little things like being picked up from the airport and being shown around the local area made my trip so much easier, and meant I settled in straight away. If you’re considering getting involved, just do it! I guarantee you won’t regret it. read less
Jess Robinson
1/12/2018 -
Accommodation was perfectly chosen and I made friends for life during my month working there. Learnt so much in an authentic and safe environment. Accomdation... read more was also perfectly chosen and I made friends for life during my month working there. Working hours flexible for a passionate explorer like myself read less
Crystal
2/13/2018 -
Each morning I woke up excited and full of energy to meet the other amazing volunteers and start our work! This experience was one of the most rewarding things I... read more have done - it opened my eyes to how other cultures in different countries cope without luxuries that we take for granted each day. I began volunteering with Globalteer on the Clean Water project in Cambodia for 2 weeks. Each week consisted of 3 days of building the water filters and 2 days going to the different villages and giving the water filters to those who needed them. All of the stages were important and I felt like I was really making a real difference. Each morning I woke up excited and full of energy to meet the other amazing volunteers and start our work for the day! I loved going into the villages the most, as you could see how grateful the locals were to receive such an important gift into their lives! After my two weeks of volunteering I managed to get a job with globalteer running the sports project ... yes that is how much I fell in love with Cambodia, the people, the culture and their way of thinking! Globalteer is brilliant and were so hands on with any problem or issue that arose! I have had nothing but positive experiences and will always follow the amazing things they do daily! read less
Robert Bisson
1/12/2018 -
Anyone wanting to volunteer I would 100 percent recommend Globalteer!!!! I had the pleasure of volunteering with Globalteer at Picaflor... read more House. From the Moment I arrived I was collected by staff and shown around Cusco. I also got to enjoy the weekly quiz nights with staff from globalteer. The staff went out of there way to make me feel welcome. I had an amazing time at picaflor house. The children were beautiful. Anyone wanting to volunteer I would 100 percent recommend globalteer!!!! read less
Katrina Baxter
7/04/2017 -
This trip was very well organized by Globalteer. I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer with Globalteer at... read more the Northern Thailand Elephant Sanctuary! It was amazing being at this sanctuary and if you love being outdoors with animals then I highly recommend this one. One of the best things about this sanctuary is that you can stay overnight! It is incredible to see the elephants before you turn in for the night and then watch them get bathed in the morning as you eat your breakfast. This trip was very well organized by Globalteer. The sanctuary is small but it gives you the chance to really see the animals in their natural habitat. You can participate in feedings and sit in bungalows out in the jungle and just watch these magnificent creatures. Meals are filling and delicious and I highly recommend staying for a few nights. read less
Kayla Lynne Kiteley
1/25/2018 -
It was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. Late last year I was able to spend a month... read more in Peru to volunteer at two of the Globalteer programs- The Dog Shelter in Cusco and The Amazon Wildlife Sanctuary in Puerto Maldonado. It was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. I was picked up from the airport and the staff made me feel so welcome and at home. Being a young girl in a country like Peru, my family and friends were quite worried at first, as was I, however, I felt safe the entire time. I didn't have to worry one bit about the organisation of both volunteer groups, even though they were on the opposite sides of the country, it was an easy process with the staff being so quick and prompt in replies and helpful when I arrived in Cusco. I genuinely had an incredible time with so many life lessons and learning experiences taught throughout the trip. Would definitely recommend even if this is your first time overseas alone - as it was mine. read less
Tiarne Biviano
2/02/2019 -
All the Globalteer staff I have worked with have become friends and I value their support and encouragement. I have volunteered with the Globalteer Cambodia Community Project in... read more 2014 and twice in 2017 and will be returning this year, 2018. It is my home away from home. All the GT staff I've worked with in that time have become friends and I value their support and encouragement. The project itself is amazing and I highly recommend it to anybody who loves kids, is keen to be involved in a sustainable education project and who wants to see and learn about Cambodia village life. The work that Globalteer does will go on to benefit Cambodia and Cambodians for many years to come. read less
Sally Bateman
1/17/2018 -
The trip has changed my outlook on life and I believe that this is only the start of my volunteering career! Mid-life crisis? Mid-life adventure? It could have been either.....or even... read more a break from the husband! Following retirement from a demanding career in 2014 I had the luxury and freedom to enjoy being a lady that could wine and dine to her heart’s content but deep down I still yearned for a challenge. Then I came across the amazing opportunity, along with a friend, to work with underprivileged children in Cusco, Peru. This was for a month under Globalteer. I was able to be part of an inspirational and holistic after-school project for 70 children aged from 3-14 in a mountain village near Cusco. The project gives free classes and help with homework to underprivileged children, plus a safe place to play, to learn traditional music and dance, to enjoy free fruit, clean drinking water and a nutritious lunch. Once our applications had been accepted and the relevant checks completed I embarked on a fundraising campaign. Individual Just Giving pages were set up and I approached various companies to donate much needed items for the children such as educational books, art supplies, toys and clothing. My local M&S were very supportive and donated underwear and socks. Anxiety, apprehension and anticipation were just some of the feelings experienced but the time to embark on the adventure soon came round and we flew from Heathrow to Cusco via Bogota. The accommodation was in a family ‘homestay’ as we wanted to embrace and immerse ourselves in the culture and be part of a Peruvian family and also to practice the little Spanish I had learnt. In fact there were 11 people in the house in Wanchaq on the outskirts of Cusco. The family were very friendly and welcoming but you soon began to appreciate what you had left behind and not to take anything for granted. Altitude sickness was the first issue that had to be dealt with. Cusco is around 3400m above the sea level which can present a problem because the human body starts to react at around 2500m. Thankfully after taking the local remedy of Coca Tea and being given oxygen we were up and about after 36 hours. Meeting the children for the first time at Picaflor House was a very emotional experience and brought on the first of many tears. At the end of the first day with them I felt so privileged and humbled to have met them. They had nothing but were always smiling and wanting to hold your hand. I assisted with English classes, Mathematics and activities such as music, crafts and games on a Friday. They delighted in playing the simplest of games such as ‘Piggy In The Middle’ which started off with 3 and then everyone wanted to participate! The older girls made makeshift swings one day from cardboard and ropes! We were advised not to have favourites but I have to own up to having a soft spot for the Kindergarten class! The ongoing project focuses on the young and vulnerable to assist them in finding a way out of the trap of poverty and is aimed at keeping the children in a secure environment off the streets, and providing them with a safe place to learn and enjoy being children. I did witness in various parts of the area young children on their own begging in the streets or trying to sell sweets to motorists whilst waiting at the traffic lights. Sadly despite the wealth of tourist money that enters the country, very little of the money filters down to the average Peruvian and millions live in extreme poverty. This means a lack of education, healthcare and nutrition effects the poorest the hardest. Many homes have no running water or proper sanitation and heating is unheard of. With volunteers Globalteer hope to help the least fortunate live healthily, with dignity and with a future. We caught a local bus to and from the project. The journey was just under 1 hour each way and cost 3.50 soles return – approx £1! On one of our weekends off we visited Machu Picchu – an incomparable wonder and despite having seen so many pictures nothing prepares you for the first time you see the Inca citadel rising high above a bend in the river. It was well worth the 3.45 am alarm call to see the sunrise which was absolutely breath-taking. Another challenge we took on was to eat the local dish ‘Cuy’ – otherwise known as guinea pig! A Peruvian delicacy it is either fried or roasted and cooked whole. We ate it with our hands and although the meat looked like the dark meat of chicken it tasted more like duck. I also celebrated my birthday whilst out there and I gave the children a small bag of ‘Haribo’ sweets as a treat. They were absolutely delighted and so happy to have in their eyes such a luxury. I didn’t need to translate in to Spanish on this occasion – I think ‘sweets’ is a universal language! The trip was an incredible experience not only because of the gratifying sensation of helping in a foreign and vulnerable country, but also learning more about ourselves and appreciating what we have. The children made a lasting impression and I do have intentions to one day return. Volunteering at Piclafor House has taught me to never take things for granted and to realise how we can manage with far less than we think we need – I have a wardrobe of clothes so why do I think I need more? I left a case of clothes and toiletries for a lady I met and she actually filled with tears when she saw the bottle of shampoo I had donated. The trip has changed my outlook on life and I believe that this is only the start of my volunteering career! I would recommend volunteering with Globalteer to anyone who wants to have a memorable life experience. read less
Geraldine Parkin
2/06/2018 -
If you go there, you would definitely love it. I stayed in Picaflor House for like one month and... read more a half. I really really appreciate everything they've done for the kids, and what I have learned from them. They are so happy, so pure, and so cute. If you go there, you would definitely love it. If you are wondering where you should go for volunteering, especially for those who love kids, Picaflor is the best choice, and Cusco is one of your best destinations. You would not regret it. read less
PICKLE SMART
8/31/2019 -
The most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I have had. My time spent volunteering in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with Globalteer... read more was one of the most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I've had. Volunteering in local schools allowed me to see parts of the area that I wouldn't have been able to as a tourist, and coaching sports to the school children offered me a chance to interact with locals and engage in their culture. Communication with Globalteer leading up to and during my trip was easy and constant. All the staff and volunteers I worked with were very friendly and supportive, always eager to help me out with any issues or concerns I had. Free time during the evenings and weekends allowed me to explore and enjoy what Siem Reap has to offer. I would definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone wishing to immerse themselves in a new culture, step out their comfort zone and make a difference to the local area! read less
Colin Elkington
1/14/2018 -
Could not fault the hard work these people put in to support people less fortunate than myself. Great experience in Peru, couldn't fault the hard work these... read more people put in to support people less fortunate than myself. No ones perfect but all you can do is your best. Thanks guys read less
Mark Catling
6/30/2017 -
I met a fab group of people and they made the trip even better! I had the best time volunteering, especially with a background... read more in childcare I found this an amazing experience and highly recommend to anyone who is thinking about doing it. I met a fab group of people and they made the trip even better! The people who support you from Globalteer keep you informed and are always there through-out your trip and I hope to come back in the near future! read less
Hope Wilson
1/16/2018
“One of the most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I've had!"
John, UK