Welcome to the Alternative Kudat Community-based Ecotourism Collective
Building community-based ecotourism in Kudat, Sabah
"Kudat’s ecotourism program is unique because we go back to the basics. The villagers across five communities in Kudat (that is Inukiran, Bavang Jamal, Loro Kecil, Tajau Laut, and Banggi) run the tourism program themselves. We have this less is more approach.
When others have skyscrapers and shopping malls we have mountains and rivers. When others have five star hotels we offer local’s homes and home-cooked meals. The villagers of Kudat have learned of ways to promote their craft, indigenous culture, and simple way of life. It’s a good distraction from the extractive kind of business the locals have been used to. It also lessens the pressure to Tun Mustapha Park. The locals have become less dependent on fishing and other practices that takes from the nature. Instead, they’ve been offering their kindness to visitors, which, if you ask me, is one of the most charming traits of the people of Kudat. I am happy to present you the Alternative Kudat community-based ecotourism collective."
Tajau Laut – Adventures await visitors
The intrepid traveler is in for a succession of surprises in the unassuming village of Tajau Laut. Visitors at the Tajau Laut Guesthouse, a new facility built by the local community, will wake up to a hearty breakfast at sunrise beside a white sand beach with gorgeous views of the majestic Balambangan and Banggi islands looming in the distance.
Banggi – Treasure trove of natural wonders
Tucked away in the northwest corner of the island is the Banggi forest reserve, home to the Bungga Waterfalls and Mount Senambung. Energetic visitors can then proceed to the summit for spectacular views of Banggi and Balambangan islands and, on a clear day, see the Philippine islands of Balabac and Mangsee from a distance. Less adventurous souls can simply call it a day and rest on black, red, and/or white sand beaches that dot the west coast..
Welcome to Loro Kecil!
Hosts will welcome you with unmatched warmth and hospitality as you enjoy group activities like beach camping, snorkeling, shore fishing, clam collecting, and taking boat cruises to the mangroves of Longgom River. Visitors could immerse themselves in an authentic cultural experience by taking part in performances of the ‘Mongigol,’ a traditional Rungus dance form, taking beading lessons from a master beader or celebrating rice planting or harvesting with the community.