Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Philippines, Kayakasia Philippines has become known as more than just an adventure company. It's a catalyst for change, striving for sustainability, and a testament to the impact of community-driven initiatives. They offer some of the world's most beautiful kayaking trails, particularly in the pristine waters of southeast asia.
With a team of experienced and passionate guides, the company offers a wide range of itineraries that cater to paddlers of all levels. From beginner-friendly excursions to challenging multi-day expeditions. One of the company's most popular multi day expeditions is Palawan. Jacques Cousteau famously described Palawan as "the last frontier.
This multi-day journey takes paddlers through some of the most stunning sceneries in the world, including the towering limestone cliffs of El Nido and the crystal-clear waters of Linacapan islands. Along the way, guests can explore hidden lagoons, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, and encounter diverse marine life including whale sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, and dugongs. But beyond the exhilarating adventures, this enterprise is deeply committed to uplifting local communities and preserving the environment.
Empowering Local Youths
Kayakasia' commitment to empowering impoverished youth is at the heart of its sustainability initiatives. By providing scholarships, employment opportunities, and rigorous training, the company offers young people a pathway out of poverty and into a rewarding career. One of the most significant challenges facing many Filipino youth is poverty. By providing scholarships, Kayakasia helps to ensure that talented and motivated young people have access to education, which is a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty. The company also offers employment opportunities to graduates of the training program, providing them with a stable income and a chance to contribute to their communities.
Kayakasia's training program equips these youths with the skills and knowledge they need to become kayaking guides. The program covers a wide range of topics, including a fully funded kayak certification, marine ecology, first aid, and customer service.
By investing in the development of these young people, Kayakasia is helping to create a skilled workforce that can contribute to the growth of the Eco- tourism industry, inline with their philosophy of sustainability. And by providing them with opportunities, it instills a sense of confidence and self-esteem in the youths. The program also fosters a sense of community and belonging among the participants, which can have a lasting impact on their lives.
Kayakasia Philippines firmly believes that by empowering youth, it is investing in the future of the region. This commitment not only supports individual growth but also fosters sustainable and equitable community development. By equipping young people with knowledge and skills to become responsible stewards of the environment, Kayakasia Philippines is ensuring the long-term sustainability of the tourism sector.
A Symbiotic Relationship With Mangroves
Kayakasia has also forged a symbiotic partnership with the mangrove forest where they operate. They source produce from local harvesters and promote sustainable practices among the fishermen and those who are dependent on the mangroves for their livelihoods.
This relationship benefits both parties and contributes to the preservation of the mangrove forests, which play a vital role in coastal ecosystems. A pristine mangrove ecosystem creates a better trip experience.
The mangrove firefly trail in Bohol’s Abatan River provides an amazing way to explore for nature lovers and kayaking enthusiasts. The kayak guides take paddlers on a kayaking adventure in through mangrove tunnels, thousands of fireflies, and share their local knowledge of the area’s biodiversity.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The Story of Project Nova
When the COVID-19 pandemic brought the tourism industry to a standstill, many businesses were forced to close their doors. Kayakasia Philippines, which depended 100% on tourism, had to pivot. Faced with zero income, Project Nova was conceived to kept the staff employed on new projects unrelated to kayaking or tourism. One of the ideas was to repurpose the company's fleet of inflatable kayaks into bags.
Project Nova was a lifeline for the local kayak guides. The project converted kayak guides and retrained them as local artisans and craftsmen. This helped to alleviate the economic hardship faced by their families.
The idea of transforming discarded inflatable kayaks into bags was an only possible due to the efforts and resourcefulness of these local village guides.
The bags were well-received by consumers, and it helped to keep Kayakasia Philippines afloat during a challenging time. From a single design, Project Nova has created award winning bags made of used kayaks. This initiative has given guides work, an outlet of creativity, but more importantly, kept used kayaks away from the landfills into something durable, stylish, and functional.
A Force for Good: Global Impact
Kayakasia Philippines is an example of how a company can be a force for good. Kayakasia Philippines has garnered international recognition from news networks such as BBC, CNN, National Geographic, and ITV, for its commitment to sustainability, community development, and environmental stewardship. It has to be possible to be both profitable and socially responsible.
Discover the beauty of the Philippines’s using your own power, with Kayakasia.
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