Kudat Rungus Long House & Tip of Borneo Tour from Kota Kinabalu

Introduction

This Kudat Rungus Long House & Tip of Borneo Tour from Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic escape into Sabah’s lesser-known northern landscapes. While it’s generally geared toward curious travelers eager to learn about local cultures and enjoy stunning views, it balances culture with comfortable transportation and a well-organized itinerary.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences—visiting a bee farm with live beekeeping, exploring a traditional Rungus longhouse, and finally catching the breathtaking sunset at Tanjung Simpang Mengayau. The inclusion of local food and engaging guides makes it feel both educational and personal.

One thing to consider is the travel time—roughly three hours each way—so this is a full-day adventure, which might be tiring for some. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy cultural insights and nature, and who are comfortable with a longer day out. Overall, it’s a value-packed option for curious explorers looking for a meaningful taste of Sabah’s northern highlights.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experiences at the Rungus longhouse and traditional crafts.
• Chance to see live beekeeping and learn about honey harvesting in a local bee farm.
• Scenic drive through oil palm plantations and wild coastal scenery.
• Visit to the Tip of Borneo offers postcard-worthy views of the South China Sea.
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning and small group size enhances the experience.
• Full-day trip providing a well-rounded glimpse into local traditions and nature.

Exploring the Kudat Rungus Long House & Tip of Borneo Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey to Kudat

The tour kicks off bright and early at 7:30 am with hotel pickup, which is a huge plus for convenience, especially if you’re staying in Kota Kinabalu’s city center. From there, it’s about a three-hour drive to Kudat, passing through Malaysia’s iconic oil palm plantations where you can enjoy views of the gold-colored fruit stretching across the landscape.

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, we appreciated the comfort during this lengthy ride. Some reviews mentioned the scenery as a highlight, with one noting the “drive through lush plantations and coastal roads passing coconut trees” as a relaxing way to start the day. The route also provides some insight into rural Sabah life, away from tourist hubs.

First Stop: Gombizau Honey Bee Farm

The first official stop at the Gombizau Honey Bee Farm is both informative and delicious. Here, visitors can witness live honey harvesting, gaining insight into traditional beekeeping methods. The farm is known for its raw honey, and you can sample some or buy souvenirs.

One reviewer remarked, “Seeing the bees up close was surprisingly fascinating, and the guide explained how honey is carefully collected without disturbing the bees.” It’s a short, 30-minute visit, but one that offers a genuine peek into local honey production that the travelers on the tour seem to find both educational and tasty.

Cultural Insights at Kampung Gong Matunggong

Next, the tour brings you to a Gong Making Factory in Kampung Gong Matunggong, where you can observe traditional musical instrument crafting. While the stop is brief—only about 30 minutes—it offers a glimpse into the musical traditions of the region. No entry fee is required here, making it a low-key yet interesting cultural pause.

The Rungus Longhouse Experience

The highlight of the day is definitely the visit to the Rungus Longhouse in Kampung Bavabgazo. After a short 15-minute drive, you’ll step into a living piece of history. Your local guide, often a member of the community, shares stories about the Rungus people’s customs, architecture, and daily life.

This visit includes a traditional lunch, which is often a highlight for travelers. Many reviews mention the authenticity of the meal and the chance to sit with a local family. You might find the longhouse’s wooden structure and communal living style fascinating, especially if you’re interested in indigenous cultures. The guide’s storytelling helps bring the longhouse’s history to life, making the experience more immersive.

The Drive to the Tip of Borneo

Post-lunch, the journey continues on gravel roads toward Tanjung Sempang Mengayau—the “Tip of Borneo.” The drive lasts around 50 minutes, passing through coastal scenery dotted with coconut trees and friendly village scenes. When you arrive, you’re greeted with sweeping views of the South China Sea and the rugged coastline—truly a photographer’s dream.

Many travelers noted the scenic beauty of this spot, which offers one of the most iconic views in Sabah. The area is unspoiled, with minimal commercialization, making it a perfect place for reflection and photos. The viewpoint is free to visit, and many find it a rewarding endpoint after a day of cultural exploration.

Final thoughts and practical tips

As the tour wraps up, you’re driven back to Kota Kinabalu, arriving around 5-6 pm. The overall experience is flexible, engaging, and provides a well-balanced mix of culture, nature, and scenic views. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, and guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly.

Remember: Bring insect repellent, a hat, and plenty of water—especially since parts of the day involve outdoor exposure and gravel roads. The tour is priced at around $306 per person, which, considering the transportation, guided expertise, entry fees, and lunch, offers good value for anyone interested in a comprehensive day trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a meaningful cultural experience combined with scenic views. It suits those who appreciate visiting traditional villages and learning about indigenous customs, as well as anyone interested in local crafts like gong-making or honey production.

It’s perfect for those comfortable with a full day on the road and seeking a taste of Sabah’s rural beauty. If you’re after luxury or quick sightseeing, this might feel a bit long, but for curious explorers eager for authentic encounters, it offers a memorable, well-rounded adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from your hotel or cruise terminal, making the day hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Insect repellent, a hat or cap, bottled water, personal toiletries, and possibly a camera for the scenic views.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kudat takes around 3 hours each way, so be prepared for a long but scenic journey.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional local lunch is included as part of the tour.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are there any extra charges?
There’s a 30% surcharge during peak seasons, payable on the day, and additional USD 9 per person for pick-up/drop-off from outskirt hotels.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the length of the day and outdoor parts when traveling with young children.

Final thoughts

The Kudat Rungus Long House & Tip of Borneo Tour offers a solid journey into Sabah’s indigenous culture, scenic coastal views, and traditional crafts. It’s a day packed with diverse experiences that appeal to curious travelers eager to go beyond typical tourist spots. The combination of authentic cultural sights, natural beauty, and convenient logistics makes it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to deepen their understanding of northern Borneo’s unique heritage.

If you’re looking for a balance of education, scenery, and comfort, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy cultural stories, scenic vistas, and are prepared for a full, engaging day out.

Note: All information is based on the provided tour data and reviews, ensuring an honest and practical review to help you decide if this adventure fits your travel style.