travel in brunei

Travel in Brunei: Everything You Should Know Before You Visit

Categories Destinations , Asia , Brunei

I have to be honest. Travel in Brunei has never been at the top of my list for a variety of reasons. Life had other plans and I landed up spending three months in the country, making Borneo the island that I had spent the longest on.

One thing that I did realize after those three months is that I had been wrong about the country on so many counts and right in a few others. Do I miss Brunei? I do.

I miss the forests and the peace that the country has and most of all I miss Shawn because he had to stay back for a couple of months while I returned to India. With three months of exploring and travel in Brunei, I feel competent enough to write a detailed guide to the country so let’s plunge in shall we?

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The Global Consensus And Actual Travel In Brunei

Before I headed out to Brunei, I did a lot of research on the place. I looked at the news articles and the travel blogs. I must say that while the Brunei travel blogs talked about a smattering of things to do in Brunei, the media talked about how restrictive the country was.

Staying for three months in such a country did not seem pleasant to me but at that point I did not have much of a choice. Three days in however and my whole perspective took a drastic change. Why?

The thing about Brunei is that it has been in the news for all the wrong reasons and since traveling through the country is not popular because of its location, it is hardly ever explored properly. It doesn’t take you long to realize that the people in Brunei are some of the friendliest people you will meet.

I had someone hand me a box full of jackfruit on day one for free just because I said I loved it. It was something that happened (with other things) over and over again throughout my stay and it emphasizes just how generous people are.

What about the Sharia Law?

Now while I did fall in love with the country, I have to say that I did not agree with a lot of things. The Sharia law was one of those things. Unfortunately for us, we were in the country when the second wave of the Sharia law implementation took place.

My particular beef was with the laws involving the LGBTQ community. Luckily, the Sultan was forced to backtrack from some of the harsher punishments that were due to be implemented.

To Write Or Not To Write About Travel In Brunei

With all this in mind, I found myself at a crossroads. Do I write about travel in Brunei or not? I finally decided that I would write about it largely to talk about my feelings and the things that I did like about the country.

After all, Brunei is not very well documented, and I found myself exploring lesser visited destinations. Talking to the expats and the locals in the smaller town that I lived in reminded me that I wrote for the people who needed it. Factual tips about travel and living in a country that I spent a long while in.

Navigating Through The Brunei Travel Guide

In order to help you navigate through Globetrove’s Brunei Travel Guide, I have divided it into sections so that you can scroll directly down to the part of the post you want to access.

Expect the post to be long because I have a lot to share and talk about. I hope that the Brunei Travel Guide will help you if you do consider travel to the country or find yourself inside its borders for some reason.

• Facts about Brunei
• Facts for the visitor
• Things to do in Brunei

BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE: Facts About Brunei

Travel in Brunei is not complete without visiting the board walk.

Let’s talk about the country before we get into the specifics about travel in Brunei. I always find that knowing about the location you head to in advance gives you a more immersive feel when you actually touch down. That is why I like to read up a bit on the weather, geography, history and culture before I start exploring.

Brunei has an interesting past. Today, the country is ruled by a Sultan but it wasn’t always so. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate. Till date you will find a British Garrison in Brunei. Things however began to change around 1929 when petroleum production began.

It was this production that turned the tides for Brunei and till today it is what sustains the economy of the country. For a brief period during 1941-1945 in the World War II, Brunei found itself being occupied by he Japanese. The British however later returned and eventually, negotiations were made for the independence of Brunei.

Once Brunei stabilized politically in the 1970’s, it quickly rose to become one of the most flourishing economies in the world thanks to the amount of petroleum that was and continues to be produced in the country. It does not come as a surprise therefore that there are a lot of expats (who are linked to the oil industry) that live in the oil towns of Brunei.

One of the first things that I realized during my travel in Brunei was that the entire landscape appears green. Okay, you may not see as much of this in Bandar Seri Begawan which is the capital of Brunei but the moment you start heading out of the city, the landscape changes rather dramatically.

The forest cover of the country is spectacular and many of the locals love walking through the numerous forest reserves and natural parks . Ulu Temburong however remains the most popular natural park that tourists visit.

Brunei has a tropical climate which means that you can expect it to be hot and humid. It rains during a large part of the year and when I say rains, I mean that it pours! So you need to plan what to pack accordingly. I recently wrote a whole guide to what to pack when visiting Brunei. You can find the link to the post below.

RELATED ARTICLES: The Ultimate Packing List For Brunei

The currency in Brunei is called the Bruneian Dollar and is often abbreviated as BND. Since it is benchmarked against the Singaporean dollar, both currency are valid tender in the country. I found this rather surprising at first but then I realized that it was part and parcel of life in Brunei.

One of the things that surprised me about travel in Brunei was the food. The food is surprisingly multicultural with large influences from the Malaysian, Singaporean,, Indonesian and Indian cuisines. That however isn’t all. It also has a thriving fast food industry.

Burgers are big deal in the country and you see them at all the local stalls. Italian food is also highly loved. I won’t do into the details of it since I have already written an in depth article about the food in Brunei.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• A Detailed Guide To Food In Brunei
• Guide to places to eat in Kuala Belait

BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE: Facts For The Visitor

If you are considering travel in Brunei, then you may want to arm yourself with a couple of facts like how to get into the country, what is the transportation like, where should you stay etc. In order to make your quest for this information a bit easier, we have compiled as much pertinent information as we could in this segment of the Brunei Travel Guide.

Entering The Country

There are two main ways to enter Brunei and those are by the land borders and by air. I have however heard that the government is encouraging cruise ships to dock in Brunei to promote tourism in the country.

Flying into Brunei is a popular choice if you are heading just to the country itself. Many however choose to take one of the cheaper flights to either Kota Kinabalu (Sabah, Malaysia) or Miri (Sarawak, Malaysia) and then backpack their way through. There are a couple of cheapish flights that ply between these cities and the route through remains a popular one.

One of my pet peeves in Brunei was the transport. There is not much public transport to talk off. A couple of stray buses that head out of the main city but that is it. Everyone owns a car and, in some cases, multiple cars. There are cabs but they are extremely expensive when you compare the rates to the rest of Asia. Yes! Brunei is expensive so keep that in mind too!

Accommodation

Accommodation is definitely something that you will need to consider when you think about travel in Brunei. While we personally stayed closer to Kuala Belait which is a small town in Brunei, I wouldn’t recommend heading that far out if you are just passing through.

Most of the spots that you would see as a tourist are in or close to the capital city named Bandar Seri Begawan. Finding accommodation there would be the wisest. If you are looking for an experience, then think of staying in Kampung Ayer also known as Brunei’s water village.

One of the things that you should keep in mind when it comes to travel in Brunei is the dress code. While there are a couple of foreigners that wear knee level shorts, I would suggest staying modest. Loose cotton clothes is the way to go especially since the weather is hot and humid.

Avoid thicker fabrics. I preferred white and light colours for this very same reason. Carry a scarf or a shawl that you can use to cover your head when you enter a mosque or religious building. As a rule, most people are not bothered about what you wear but I would still err on the side of caution.

BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE: Things To Do In Brunei

Travel in Brunei should definitely include visiting the different religious structures in the country.

When I talk about travel in Brunei, a lot of people stop me and ask me where Brunei is. Unlike its popular neighbours Malaysia and Indonesia, Brunei covers just a small piece of land on the mighty island of Borneo. A large part of this land is covered with forests and hence it does not come as a surprise that there are few tourist related activities to indulge in.

Main Cities In Brunei

Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital city of Brunei and is the place with most of the activities that as a tourist you would seek out. In fact, as far happening places in Brunei go, this is as bustling as it gets. The other cities are smaller and definitely less touristic.

Kuala Belait and Seria are two sleepy towns that lie closer to the Malaysian border. These two are oil towns and are largely populated by expats. Jerudong, Tutong and Gadong are other popular cities.

Religious Monuments

One of the main items that everyone talks about when they head to Brunei is the gorgeous mosques in the country. While I have had a chance to just visit one of them, I have seen many of them as we passed by. They are without a doubt gorgeous and well worth exploring if you have the time.

National Parks

Remember when I mentioned that Brunei is covered by forests? You can see this as you swoop in with your flight. Brunei has a number of forests that are protected and luckily deforestation is not a threat here as compared to neighbouring Malaysia.

They do however have some problems with forest fires during the hotter months and it can get bad with the highways being closed. Most of these forests however have parks that are incorporated into them so you can trek and enjoy nature. They are so profuse that you will definitely find a green spot no matter which part of Brunei you stay in.

RELATED ARTICLES:  Forest Reserves and Recreational Parks in Brunei

BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE: Experiences You Should Not Miss

As with every country, you will find that while you travel in Brunei, there are a couple of experiences that you really should not miss. While most of the notable sites can be covered in a two to three days (if you choose to visit Ulu Temburong), most of the sites are within the city of Bandar Seri Begawan and you don’t have to travel far. 

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Home » Travel Guides » Brunei » 15 Best Places to Visit in Brunei

15 Best Places to Visit in Brunei

Brunei has long been synonymous with opulence and oil money. And, in fact, there’s little that immediately counteracts that image in this nation of shimmering whitewashed mosques and golden-tipped minarets. In the west and all around the well-to-do capital at Bandar Seri Begawan, you’ll see nodding donkeys and the industrial workings of the sultanate’s petroleum industry. You’ll spot rich arabesque palaces and ambitious building projects erupting on every corner.

But let’s not forget that this is Borneo either; and with Borneo comes real wildernesses. We’re talking dense rainforests and volcanic peaks. We’re talking rustic villages of longhouses and the occasional sighting of an uber-rare clouded leopard! Granted, you’ll have to head deep into the southern or eastern recesses of the nation for those, but there are always – tantalizingly – there.

So, with everything from buzzing markets to monkey-trodden jungles, check out this list of the best places to visit in Brunei :

1. Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan (or just BSB) is perhaps the most richly-adorned capital you’ve never heard of.

Home to just 50,000 people, it’s a pint-sized lesson in how oil money can change the world.

Having been transformed in the last century, from a seaside trading town to the gilded epicenter of drilling and home of the great Sultan of Brunei, the town hosts wondrous – if a tad gaudy – sights like the gold-tipped Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the colossal Istana Nurul Iman, which holds the world record for the largest governmental building on the globe.

There’s also fascinating Islamic craft on display in the Brunei Museum, and oodles of shopping to be had in the malls of Gadong.

2. Ulu Temburong National Park

The revered Green Jewel of Brunei, Ulu Temburong sits nestled deep in the recesses of the country’s eastern exclave.

A veritable mecca for ecotourists and wildlife lovers, it’s been hailed across the globe as a fine example of state-sponsored conservation.

In all, it covers a whopping 550 square kilometers of primeval rainforest, and hosts the exotic likes of rhinoceros hornbills and swinging gibbon colonies.

Visitors who make their way here can enjoy safaris on specially constructed rope bridges in the canopies, which offer a unique perspective atop the old growth jungle.

3. Kampong Ayer

Sat smack bang in the middle of the winding Brunei River as it weaves through the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, this standalone area of the city can be seen as a destination in its own right.

Also known as, simply, the water village, it’s formed completely by homes that jut just above the channels on stilts.

Many are connected with rickety boardwalks, and play host to happy local families who love showing unexpected visitors around.

The only way to reach Kampong Ayer is by flagging down a water taxi from the banks in BSB.

4. Pekan Tutong

Pekan Tutong (that’s just Tutong Town in English) is the regional hub for the whole Tutong District – the area found immediately to the east of Bandar Seri Begawan on the northern edge of Brunei.

Located right on the edge of the South China Sea, it’s home to a clutch of acclaimed schools and a few good guesthouses.

However, the major pull is surely the golden stretch of sand that lines the city at Seri Kenangan.

This sparkling, wide beach runs along the courses of the Tutong River, and plays host to enticing beach bars and seafood restaurants as it goes – it’s surely one of the top places for sun, sand and sea in all of Brunei.

5. Kuala Belait

Rubbing shoulders with Malaysian Sarawak on the very western edge of Brunei, this oil-fed town of nodding donkeys offers an image of the Brunei of the modern age.

Bustling and packed with business folk who’ve come from afar to seek out petroleum beneath the ground, it’s also home to the famous teapot roundabout.

It’s also got its very own beachfront, which finds its zenith with the welcoming little park at Silver Jubilee.

For food, shopping and souvenirs, also be sure to make a beeline for the Tudong Saji: a bazaar that erupts after dark with fish dishes and Asian crafts.

Bustling with the biggest bazaars and marketplaces in all of Brunei, the area of Gadong – officially a separate town, though much more like a suburb of the capital at Bandar Seri Begawan – is the place to go for shopping in this small Asian nation.

Start with the huge malls, which are packed with electronics sellers and high-street fashion outlets, not to mention the only McDonald’s brand in the country (hence the perpetual queue!). And when the evening comes, it’s time to hit the energetic night market, which throbs with smelly fish stalls and stir-fry stands, the fragrances of tamarind and ginger and chili and soy all wafting through the air.

Muara juts out into the South China Sea with its own needle-shaped finger of land, forming the western end of the populous Brunei and Muara District.

Known primarily as one of the sultanate’s top beach towns, its home to a great stretch of golden sand and a clutch of picnic spots and playgrounds for those with kids in tow (look for the manicured lawns of the Muara Beach Recreational Park). Other pleasant walks can be had along the palm-dotted spit of Serasa Beach to the south, while views out across the ferry-dotted ocean are to die for.

8. Andulau Forest Reserve

A sea of waxy palms and ancient teak trees awaits travelers in the Andulau Forest Reserve, which sits neatly placed in the midst of Brunei, just a short jaunt east from the capital.

Made famous by the proliferation of old growth evergreen woods that dominates its interior, the area is also endowed with wild, muddy rivers and crashing waterfalls with splash pools for swimming.

Don’t expect to see many locals here (it’s one of the least-populated parts of the Sultanate), unless – that is – you mean tropical creatures in the ilk of rare clouded leopards and monkeys overhead!

One of the few towns to be found in Brunei’s exclave of Temburong, Bangar represents the administrative and commercial heart of this detached district in the east.

A small and compact place, it is well-connected to the capital at Bandar Seri Begawan by speed boat, which can be seen departing from the jetties of the riverside harbors here from morning until night.

The real draw of this place is surely the wild rainforests that lurk on the edges of town, with the legendary Labu Forest and the aforementioned Ulu Temburong National Park both on the menu.

However, it’s also a good spot to meet the locals and get to grips with the wilder character of the eastern region.

Nestled deep in the south-western corner of the Sultanate, little Labi town is one of the top spots for ecotourists heading to Brunei.

Essentially just a clutch of bamboo homes and rain-doused villages, it sits right on the edge of the wild Labi Forest Reserve.

That means guests get to keep company with gibbons and geckos and all manner of other woodland fauna, all whilst seeking out gushing waterfalls and swamps and hidden forest trekking trials.

A smattering of good nature lodges can be found in the village, while nearby Terawan and Tarunan also have other guesthouse options of their own.

Roughly contiguous with the aforementioned town of Kuala Belait, Seria also makes its home on the northern coastline of Brunei, where the sands and the city promenades dip down into the South China Sea.

Now famed for its wealth of prolific oil wells, the area is peppered with nodding donkeys and the recognizable relics of that decades-old petroleum industry.

In fact, Seria’s very history has been defined by oil since the very beginning, with WWII battles between the Allies and the Japanese taking place here as the two powers vied for control of Brunei’s rich petroleum wealth.

12. Labi Forest Reserve

Named for the small village on its periphery, the vast reserves of the Labi Forest range from the south-western flats of Brunei to the borderlands where the Gunung Mulu park of Malaysia crashes down from the Borneo highlands.

It’s a wild and untamed place, offering breathtaking viewpoints over the tops of the jungles, the gushing waterfalls of Wasai Kadir, and chances to see rare rainforest creatures on the trails.

Another major pull are the traditional longhouses of the Iban folk, which line the dirt tracks close to the reserve.

13. Jerudong

Jerudong is a flash place of neon signs and in-your-face attractions, located just on the edge of the ocean and directly west of central Bandar Seri Begawan.

Although now largely contiguous with the capital, the suburb has its own distinct character; largely thanks to the brightly-lit casinos and flamboyant gaming halls that line up along the streets by the bucket load.

The go-getter vibe is carried on by one mind-boggling roundabout shaped like a giant diamond ring, not to mention the countless theme parks and manmade beaches, where loop-de-loops meet babbling water fountains and country clubs.

14. Tasek Merimbun

Surrounded by the protected hinterland of the Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park (one of the top conservation areas in the sultanate as a whole), this huge lake – the largest natural lake in the country, no less – draws in visitors with the promise of unique flora and fauna.

Around its tiger lily-spotted banks, you’ll see age-old skiffs docked on weathered jetties, all of which are shrouded by the blooming greens of the jungle canopy.

It’s there where the white-collared fruit bats flit between the branches; there where the clouded leopards and the red leaf monkeys stalk the undergrowth.

15. Hutan Simpan Bukit Ladan

Another fine example of Brunei’s lush and verdant backcountry comes in the form of the Hutan Simpan Bukit Ladan park, which buts up to the Malay border on the western edge of Tutong District.

Be sure to pack one sturdy and sure pair of walking boots for this one, because the trails often come caked in mud and slippery as they pierce deep into the jungles.

You’ll be able to seek out interesting blooms of orchids between the fern fields, wonder at colossal teak trees caked in moss, and even take a canopy walk that lets you survey the vast hills from atop the rainforests that blanket them.

15 Best Places to Visit in Brunei:

• Bandar Seri Begawan
• Ulu Temburong National Park
• Kampong Ayer
• Pekan Tutong
• Kuala Belait
• Andulau Forest Reserve
• Labi Forest Reserve
• Tasek Merimbun
• Hutan Simpan Bukit Ladan

• Brunei Darussalam
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

25 Must-Visit Attractions in Brunei

The Sultanate of Brunei is known for mosques, virgin rainforest and the world’s largest floating village. Here are our top 25 attractions in Brunei for tourists staying in Bandar Seri Begawan on a stopover to those exploring the best of the country.

1. omar ali saifuddien mosque.

The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan is the most striking image of Brunei. An artificial lagoon-cum-reflecting pool surrounds the mosque which overlooks the Brunei River and Kampong Ayer. This is one of the most Instagramable attractions in Brunei. Any tour of the capital is sure to feature a visit to this iconic landmark.

2. Bandar Seri Begawan Waterfront

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Hugging the banks of the Brunei River, The Waterfront is an ideal place for a pleasant evening stroll. Apart from views of the river and Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, this is our favourite place to get photographs of Kampong Ayer.

Kampong Ayer

Always featured among the top attractions in Brunei, Kampong Ayer provides an experience found nowhere else on the planet. The historical floating village consists of more than 40 smaller settlements connected with a maze-like network of wooden boardwalks. A total of 13,000 residents live inside Kampong Ayer who have their own schools, mosques and shops. Speedboats cost approximately B$1 ($0.66 USD) to ferry residents and tourists to the world’s largest stilted village.

3. Royal Regalia Museum

After seeing the palace, head to the Royal Regalia Museum and see his collection of gifts. From a giant chariot used in his silver jubilee to countless jewels and gold, the free museums offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of a Sultan .

4. Istana Nurul Iman

With almost 1,800 rooms, the Istana Nurul Iman is officially the world’s largest house. The Sultan’s palace lies a short drive from Bandar Seri Begawan’s city centre. Featuring as a favourite stop for day trippers, appreciating the vast size and splendour gives you an idea of the Sultan’s wealth. Tourists can’t go inside apart from during Hari Raya. Take photographs from the nearby river or park.

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5. Gadong Night Market

Every evening at 4pm, Gadong Night Markets officially opens. Stalls sell local dishes including grilled fish and chicken. Because Bandar Seri Begawan gets so few tourists, the night market retains an authentic flair. If you want to soak up a bit of the Bruneian culture and taste regional cuisine, head to Gadong. Try nasi katok (steamed rice and Bruneian-style fried chicken with a spicy sauce).

6. Ulu Temburong National Park

Hiking Trail, Forest, Park

7. Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

The second of Brunei’s grand mosques sits a few kilometres from the city centre. With the title as the country’s largest mosque, it’s a favourite stop on short itineraries to Bandar Seri Begawan. But because of its size, you might have difficulties finding the perfect photograph!

8. Malay Technology Museum

Another must-visit attraction in Brunei for those looking to learn about the country’s culture. Several rooms have displays on Malay and Bruneian ethnography including a collection of traditional costumes. Others show how residents live in the floating village. Expect to spend approximately one hour at this museum .

9. Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum

10. twelve roofs house.

The former High Commissioner’s house is one of Brunei’s oldest buildings. Dating back to 1906, the colonial structure has deep ties to imperial Britain. After gaining their independence in 1984, the Twelve Roofs House has since become a museum. Inside, you’ll learn about the friendly relationship between Britain and Brunei and the Queen and the Sultan. We suggest visiting to appreciate the style of architecture and learn more about the evolution of modern-day Brunei.

11. Tasek Lama Recreational Park

Hiking Trail, Natural Feature

Tasek Lama sits a few kilometres north of Bandar Seri Begawan and provides a slice of nature in the heart of the city. Apart from a favourite picnicking spot for local families, the park has short trails through the jungle. Expect to spend an hour or two appreciating the rainforest habitat, snapping photos from viewing platforms and admiring the waterfalls.

12. Taman Persiaran Damuan Park

Park, Forest

We recommend this park as one of the top attractions in Brunei for every visitor to the country. Stretching along the Brunei River, the park is a haven for locals and families in the evening. The island in the centre houses monkeys including the endemic and endangered Proboscis Monkeys.

13. Muara Beach

Natural Feature

Brunei’s best beach is approximately 30 minutes by car from Bandar Seri Begawan. The clean stretch of coastline and adjacent parks has several benches for picnics, a jogging trail and a prime position to see Borneo’s famous sunset. Why not combine a day at the beach with a sunset picnic? But remember to respect local customs and leave the speedos and bikinis in the hotel.

14. Jerudong Park Playground

Amusement Park

When Jerudong Park opened in 1994, it was one of the largest theme parks in Asia. But after a lack of investment, it dwindled to a fraction of its former size. Despite having just a few rides and being rather uninspiring by European standards, it still gets classified as one of the top attractions in Brunei in guidebooks. We suggest considering a trip here if you’re visiting with children.

15. Tamu Kianggeh Market

Located near the Brunei River, Tamu Kianggeh sells fruit, veggies and fish. Other stalls have locally-made handicraft and souvenirs catering towards the stopover tourists in Bandar Seri Begawan. This is also our favourite place in the city to buy fresh tropical fruit.

16. Billionth Barrel Monument

The monument in Seria near the border with Sarawak commemorates Brunei’s production of its billionth barrel of oil. Offshore oil drives Brunei’s economy making it one of the wealthiest nations in Southeast Asia. Stop by for half an hour when passing between Miri and Brunei’s capital. But unless you have a car, it might not be worth the effort to travel from Bandar Seri Begawan specifically to see this monument.

17. Tasek Merimbun

Park, Natural Feature

Brunei’s largest lake sits some 70 kilometres (43 miles) from Bandar Seri Begawan. The ‘S’-shaped lake supports a variety of flora and fauna including a rare species of fruit bat. Apart from snapping photographs and enjoying the environment, tourists can take boat trips and visit the two lake islands. Because of its proximity to Tutong Town, why not visit both the lake and Seri Kenangan Beach as part of the same trip?

18. Pantai Seri Kenangan

In English, Pantai Seri Kanangan translates to ‘Unforgettable Beach’. The stretch of orange sand is sandwiched between the rough waters of the South China Sea and the relatively calm Tutong River. The best time to enjoy this attraction in Brunei is with a late afternoon picnic or during the sunset.

A mosque on stilts at Brunei’s University

The University Mosque in Brunei caters to local students and nearby villagers. With a stilted appearance and pointy golden-brown roofs, it manifests a simple yet modern design. A beautifully-tiled archway forms the entrance to the complex. Step inside to the brightly-lit prayer hall holding up to 1,800 worshippers.

The Eateries of Bandar Seri Begawan

Another one of the top reasons to visit Brunei is its food. The Sultanate’s strong cultural ties with Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia blend to create a delicious fusion of food. Restaurants in Bandar Seri Begawan sell typical Malay-style fried rice and noodles mixed with Indonesian favourites like spicy Rendang. Brunei combines the best of all regional cuisine, making it easy to find Bornean treats, fiery Indonesian food and local snacks.

Luagan Lalak

Our favourite place in Brunei to see the Bornean sunrise is at Luagan Lalak. Located near the Labi Forest Reserve to the west of Bandar Seri Begawan, the lake exudes beauty. A series of boardwalks span over the freshwater swamp’s surface. Footpaths and wooden bridges form a network around the surrounding park. You’ll need to drive more than an hour from Bandar Seri Begawan to witness this spectacular phenomenon. Plan to leave the city at 4.30am to get there in time for sunrise.

Pekan Tutong

Tutong Town some 40km (24.9mi) west of Bandar Seri Begawan offers a quiet beach retreat. The stretch of yellow-orange sand hugs the town along the Tutong River. Either visit on a day trip or spend the night in one of the guesthouses to enjoy the sunset. We also recommend checking out Sungai Basong Recreational Park, which includes hiking trails and a miniature ethnic village.

Bukit Ladan Forest Reserve

Located in Tutong District, Bukit Ladan Forest Reserve is among the most beautiful places in Brunei for nature lovers. Spanning 76sqkm (18,780 acres), the protected area offers hiking trails, picnicking spots and viewing platforms. With towering teak trees lining the paths and the occasional orchid, this provides the ultimate experience for fans of the outdoors. Climb the canopies to witness the dense green forest rolling over the hills towards the horizon. You’ll need to rent a car to see this natural wonder in Brunei. It’s not advisable to make the trip during the rainy season when flooded roads make access challenging.

Moroccan-Style Ash-Shaliheen Mosque

Ash-Shaliheen Mosque looks like something straight from Marrakesh. The Moroccan-styled structure opened in 2012 and sits next to the Prime Minister’s Office. Turquoise domes complement its sandstone-coloured walls. Renowned Egyptian architect Abdel-Wahed El-Wakil blends traditional North African elements with a contemporary flair. An attractive courtyard filled with fountains surround the mosque. Step inside and find a mosaic of hand-chiselled tiles decorating the walls with Moroccan chandeliers.

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Architecture

The most beautiful mosques in brunei.

See & Do

The most beautiful places to visit in brunei.

10 Must-Visit Attractions in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Bars & Cafes

The best coffee shops in bandar seri begawan, brunei.

The Top 10 Things to Do in Brunei

How to Spend 48 Hours in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Restaurants

Top restaurants in bandar seri begawan, brunei.

Guides & Tips

Welcome to kampong ayer: the world's largest floating village.

A Guide to Brunei's Ulu Temburong National Park

How to Navigate Transport in Brunei

The History of Brunei's Royal Family

How to Navigate Transport in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

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Brunei travel blog — The fullest Brunei travel guide for first-timers

Brunei is a small country (only about 5.765 km²) but very rich and prosperous. Not as famous as Singapore or Thailand, but Brunei is known as the world’s richest Muslim kingdom, traveling to Brunei you not only visit the famous places but also have the opportunity to explore and experience life lavish of this kingdom. With a small population and huge oil revenues, so the wealth in Brunei is evident in everywhere. Especially, It is very clear in the mosques. In recent years, Brunei has always been an attractive and extremely interesting destination with many features of natural as well as culinary and cultural. Now, let’s check it out our Brunei blog (Brunei travel blog) with the fullest Brunei travel guide (Brunei guide) for a wonderful and budget trip to Brunei for the first-timers below.

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Brunei blog: When to visit Brunei?

Like other Southeast Asian countries, Brunei’s climate is divided into two seasons, the rainy season and the dry season, but this division is not really clear and it also does not affect much on your trip. From September to January every year is a humid season with average temperatures between from 24 degrees Celsius to 31 degrees Celsius. The weather is quite humid and uncomfortable, with heavy rains, so you avoid traveling to Brunei in this time. The period from April to August, the weather during this period is very pleasant, so this is the best time to visit Brunei.

In Brunei, there are two main celebrations that you should know:

Ramadan: It takes place within a month starting in mid-May, this month the Brunei people will be eat vegetarian or not eat at all during the daylight, so when traveling in this time, you should avoid eating in front of the people.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri: It takes place after Ramadan in the middle of September, pilgrims from all over the world come here to meet, greet and receive souvenirs from the Sultan and the Queen (a chocolate bar is sealed by Royal stamp or 5 Brunei dollars (BND) if is a child) on the occasion the Royal palace open only once a year, to receive good luck.

Brunei travel blog: How to get to Brunei?

According to Brunei travel experience, there are no direct flights from Vietnam, so you have to transit in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore or Malaysia and then getting to Brunei. Here is how to getting from Vietnam to Brunei short and convenient by air as follows.

From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City you can buy tickets from airlines such as: Air Asia, Vietnam Airlines to Kuala Lumpur. Then from Kuala Lumpur you can go to Brunei in two ways:

You can buy cheap air tickets from airlines such as AirAsia for round trip Hanoi – Kuala Lumpur or Ho Chi Minh City – Kuala Lumpur. Then you continue to fly round trip Kuala Lumpur – Brunei.

When arrived at Brunei Airport you must pay the airport fee of 12 Brunei Dollar or 12 Singapore Dollar (note that the airline only accepts paper money).

• From Miri Airport in Malaysia, you buy a taxi ticket to the Long Distance Bus Station, it takes 26 Ringgit (about $6.4) per trip.
• Then from the bus station you buy tickets to Brunei of PHLS Express company for 25 Ringgit (about $6.11). There are only 2 trips for a day at 7am and 15:45pm so you should keep in mind.
• In the opposite direction at the bus station of Bandar (Brunei), only PHLS Express company sells tickets from Brunei to Miri (Malaysia) for 18 Brunei Dollar or 18 Singapore Dollar.

Note: Israeli citizens may be banned enter Brunei. Southeast Asia countries has no need VISA.

Getting from Brunei Airport to the city center

In Brunei there is only one main bus station in the center of the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan Bus Station, so all arrivals / departures are pass this station. There is a very large details map of all bus routes in Brunei. If you a backpack visitor to Brunei remember get here to refer to it first!

There are 4 easiest bus routes from the airport to the city center (and back) are 23, 24, 34 and 38, blue cars. Buses in Brunei are quite old but run smoothly and safely. Ticket prices for all route or a half route are B$1 (1 Brunei Dollar), rno matter which bus route. That means you just have to pay B$1 and you want to get down at any place, at any time.

Brunei blog: How to getting around Brunei?

The main means of transport in Brunei are buses, cars and taxis. Each type of vehicle has its own advantages. If you want to go around to exploring the capital, you should take the bus, because here the bus system is very cheap, safe and convenient. But if you want to go deep in inner of the country, you must rent a car or take a train. As follows:

Taxi: Most of the Brunei people have their own cars so there are only about 50 taxis in the country. If you want to take a taxi from the airport to the city center it will take about 20 minutes at a cost of 25 – 30 Brunei Dollar. But you will be wait a long time.

Bus: The special feature of the Brunei bus has no waiting point, you stand at the edge of the road for 5 to 10 minutes, you can tell the driver about your destination. The fare for one bus trip is 1 Dollar Brunei.

Bus routes to distant locations

• Brunei International Airport: Bus No.23, 24, 34, 35, 36, 38
• Kuala Lurah: Bus No.42, 44
• Kuala Belait/Tutong District (pass the Proposed Rimba Terminal): Bus No.22, 57
• Kianggeh Jetty: Bus No.39
• Labuan/Kg Menumbok (Kota Kinabalu) pass Muara Passenger/Car Ferry Terminal: Bus No.33, 37, 38, 39

Bus routes to places of interest

• Brunei Royal Regalia Museum: All bus routes
• Jame Asr Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque: Bus No.01, 20, 22
• Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: All bus routes
• Tasek Lama Recreational Park: Bus No.01
• Museums of Brunei: All bus routes
• Jerudong Park: Bus No.55

Brunei travel blog: Where to stay in Brunei?

Most hotels in Brunei are very expensive. However, there are many cheap hotels in Brunei, but if you have a lot of money you can stay in more upscale hotels. The rental price is an average of $55 per night/per room. Here are some budget hotels you can refer to:

• Jubilee Hotel (2 star standard). Address: Jubilee Plaza, Jalan Kampong Kianggeh, BS 8111 Bandar Seri Begawan. Room rates from $40/night.
• The Brunei Hotel (3 star standard). Address: 95, Jalan Pemancha, BS8811 Bandar Seri Begawan.
• Badiah Hotel : (3 star standard). Address: Mile 1 1/4, Jalan Tutong , Kianggeh, Bandar Seri Begawan. Room rates from $55/night.
• Qing Yun Resthouse Sdn Bhd (1 star standard): Address: No 16 1st floor ,block I ,Abdul Razak complex,jalan Gadong BE3519,Brunei Darussalam. Room rates from $30/night.
• Palm Garden Hotel Brunei (3 star standard). Address: Lot 45328, Simpang 88, Kampong Kiulap, BE1518 BSB. Room rates from $40/night.
• Mulia Hotel (4 star standard). Address: EDR No. BD 30040 Lot No 31954, Kg Anggerek Desa, Mukim Barakas, Brunei-Muara, Kianggeh, Bandar Seri Begawan, agoda.

If you have more money then the following are high-end (luxury) hotels in Brunei with furniture, professional services, facilities, luxury equipment, modern that you refer to:

• The Rizqun International Hotel : Address: Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan, 5 star standard and room rates from $121.66/night.
• The Empire Hotel and Country Club : Address: Jerudong Negara BG 3122, Jerudong, Bandar Seri Begawan, 5 star standard and room rates from $194.33/night.
• OSP Puni Indah Luxury Residence : Address: Jalan Ong Sum Ping, Kianggeh, Bandar Seri Begawan with, 4 star standard and room rate from $183.21/night.

However, there is a very interesting way to explore the culture and learn about the customs and habits of the people of Brunei is to apply for stay in homestay. The people of Brunei are very hospitable and willing to help others. You just login into the Couchsurfing Social Networking site to apply for homestay.

Guesthouses

If there are no conditions to stay in the hotel you can rent a cheap guesthouse for about 10 Brunei dollars. Below is a list of some popular budget guesthouses you can refer to:

• Pusat Belia (Youth Center Hostel) . Address: Simpang 336-17, Jalan Kebandasan, Bandar Seri Begawan.
• Harmoni Ria Guesthouse . Address: 21 Jalan Medewa, Km 7, Jalan Tutong, Bandar Seri Begawan.

You can find, check rates, availability & booking for other hotels in Brunei on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Brunei blog: Best places to visit and top things to do in Brunei

Istana nurul iman – sultan’s palace.

In Arabic the Istana Nurul Iman means “Palace of the Light of the Saints”. This is the largest and richest palace in the world. The Royal Palace of Brunei is located on a high hill next to the lower of Brunei River. The palace’s door towards Bandar Seri Begawan capital. This is the main residence of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and his royal family.

With a total construction cost of about $ 1.4 billion, when visiting the Royal Palace, visitors will admire the unique Islamic architecture with extremely expensive luxury furniture. The palace is decorated by high-end furniture, luxuriously decorated with gold and silver materials, diamonds and gems, etc. Inside, there are a throne, tables and chairs for guests, paintings, bowls, glasses, all made from gold. Some lucky visitors have the opportunity to enter the palace of gold, will feel like to sink into the world of the King’s fairy and do not want to come out realistic.

Royal Palace is a must visit place in Brunei. Normally, the palace is not open to the public, except for the annual Hari Raya Aidilfitri festival, where visitors visit the Sultan to be blessed and receive the presents.

Kampong Ayer Water Village

As a village with a history of more than 600 years, there are still big nose monkeys living in simple houses on the peaceful river. In the village there are schools, hospitals, administrative offices … To get here you have to go by wooden boat or also called water taxi. But the price is not cheap, about $20- $40 for a tour around the river. Another trip from shore to floating village cost about $1- $2.

Unlike the outside appearance of the village, looks like “slums”, the inside space of the village is very … good, every home is full of modern facilities. Each house in Kampong Ayer is linked by a Brunei-style road system made of special wood on the island of Borneo.

The rustic life but also very romantic with wide yards and common paths are planted a lot of flowers and bonsai. The floating villagers are very focused decoration for their home, this is where you can not miss when traveling to Brunei.

Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Brunei is dubbed the kingdom of the mosques. With an area of only 6,000 square kilometers and a population of nearly 400,000 people, but Brunei has over 100 mosques. The devotion of the people of Brunei is a great source of inspiration for creating spectacular, beautiful mosques. Among them, the Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque in Brunei is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia with the stunning and magical of five tons of gold plated all over the mosque.

All the columns, the stairs are made of marble, the carpets in the mosque are imported from Arabia, the tiles paved wall are imported from Europe and the sparkling chandeliers are made of gold and diamonds are very brilliant.

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

Considered as Asia’s largest mosque at this time and also the first in Brunei, with a dome plated with 5 tons of pure gold. Interior and exterior are also used luxury materials imported from many countries in the world.

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Brunei Darussalam

Latest update.

Exercise normal safety precautions in Brunei.

Brunei Darussalam (PDF 679.95 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 993 or contact local police.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions in Brunei.

• Serious crime is rare in Brunei. Petty crime such as theft and burglary does occur. Keep your valuables secure. Lock your accommodation, even when you're inside.
• Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes are common throughout the year. Incidents of objects and people being struck by lightning have occurred.
• Weather conditions can change quickly and leave you stranded or injured, especially at sea or in a remote area. If you're sailing, hiking, or in a remote area, be prepared and take all the necessary precautions that qualified personnel and local authorities recommend.  
• Crocodiles are common in Brunei, and crocodile attacks have occurred along the rivers. Use caution when around water sources and follow the advice of local authorities. 
• Stray dogs are common. Don't approach or touch dogs and be mindful of dogs when walking or exercising. Although there have been no official rabies cases in Brunei recently, cases have been reported recently in Malaysia close to the border with Brunei. See a doctor immediately if an animal scratches or bites you.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Insect-borne diseases occur. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated before you travel.
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you engage in high-risk activities.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include hepatitis, hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and tuberculosis. Avoid raw and undercooked foods.
• Local authorities may issue Red Tide warnings when red algae reach dangerous levels. These include warnings about swimming in certain areas or eating certain types of seafood. Check local media for Red Tide alerts.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Brunei's Infectious Disease Act includes penalties for various offences relating to controlling and preventing COVID-19. You must wear a mask when entering a hospital or medical clinic or attending an event where the organiser has directed participants to wear masks.
• Brunei is a Muslim country and has strict religious laws. These include laws around fasting during Ramadan, preaching without government permission, and Muslim religious observance. Know and follow these laws.
• Brunei's Sharia (Syariah) Penal Code took full effect in April 2019. It applies to everyone, including foreigners and non-Muslims. Some crimes, including blasphemy, sodomy and adultery, attract the death penalty under sharia law. Understand the law before you travel.
• Selling alcohol and consuming alcohol in public is against the law. Smoking is illegal in most public places. It's also illegal to import alcohol and tobacco products above legal limits. If you import alcohol, keep the paperwork to prove it's legal. Check with the  Brunei Customs and Excise Department  before bringing alcohol or tobacco into Brunei.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Some drug offences have mandatory death penalty sentences. Other penalties include long prison sentences or physical punishment.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• To enter Brunei, you'll need a visa. In some cases you may be able to obtain and pay for a visa on arrival. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission or consulate of Brunei for the latest details.
• You're required to complete an E-Arrival Card online before arriving in and departing Brunei. This includes air, land and sea routes. If you're transiting, you will not be required to complete an E-Arrival Card. 
• You no longer require COVID-19 insurance to enter Brunei, but this is strongly encouraged.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian High Commission in Bandar Seri Begawan .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Serious crime is rare.

Travellers are occasionally the victims of petty crime, such as theft, burglary, and vehicle break-ins.

To protect yourself from crime:

• leave valuables in a secure location
• watch your personal belongings
• always lock doors and windows at your accommodation

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Civil unrest is rare.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To protect yourself from possible violence:

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Brunei experiences heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes throughout the year. Incidents of objects and people being struck by lightning have occurred.

The wet seasons are September to January and May to July. Flooding and mudslides are common during these times.

Severe weather  can affect essential services, such as power.

If a  natural disaster  occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with friends and family

Wildlife and outdoor activities

Brunei is home to saltwater crocodiles. They live along the Brunei River and beaches. People fishing on the riverbank have been attacked and killed by crocodiles.

There are venomous snakes in Brunei. Keep your distance if you encounter a snake outdoors. If a snake is found indoors or in a confined space, call Fire and Rescue Services on 995, who also capture and remove crocodiles.  

Stray dogs are common. Don't approach or touch dogs. Be mindful of dogs when walking or exercising. Although there have been no official rabies cases in Brunei recently, cases have been reported recently in Malaysia close to the border with Brunei. Rabies is fatal if you don't get vaccinated or don't get medical treatment quickly. See a doctor immediately if a dog, monkey or other animal scratches or bites you.  

Outdoors Activities

Trekking in the jungle and parks can range from beginner-level to more advanced options. Trekkers have been known to go missing. Inform family and friends before your trek and take a phone and sufficient supplies. 

Avoid swimming in rivers, wear a life vest when on boats and adhere to local advice when near a water source, as crocodiles in Brunei have been known to attack people. 

Local beach rescue services may not be of the same standard as in Australia.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Brunei. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• the required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne diseases occur, including:

• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

We recommend you get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis if you travel to rural areas. Seek medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS  is a risk in Brunei. 

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)
• tuberculosis

Severe outbreaks sometimes occur.

Avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads.

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Red algae sometimes reaches dangerous levels in coastal waters. Local authorities may issue red tide warnings about:

• swimming in certain areas
• eating certain types of seafood

Local authorities print warnings about red algae in local newspapers, including in English-language publications.

If there's a red tide alert, follow local warnings. This algal bloom can cause paralytic shellfish poisoning. Avoid shellfish and seafood because they may be affected.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities in Brunei's public hospitals are of reasonable quality.

Private hospital facilities are of a high standard.

If you have severe symptoms of COVID-19 you may be treated at a dedicated COVID-19 hospital.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be moved to Australia or Singapore. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

In Brunei, it's illegal to:

• eat, drink or smoke in public places between sunrise and sunset during  Ramadan
• persuade a Muslim to neglect their religious duties
• preach religions other than Islam, or preach Islam without permission from the government
• fail to attend Friday prayers if you are an adult male Muslim
• teach Islamic doctrine outside your own home or to anyone outside your household, without permission

It's also illegal to:

• conduct same-sex sexual activity
• possess pornographic material
• carry firearms or related items, including ammunition and empty cartridge shells
• sell alcohol
• import alcohol or tobacco products above legal limits

If you import alcohol, keep documents to prove you did so legally.

• Advice for LGBTI people
• Royal Customs and Excise Department

It's illegal to smoke in:

• government buildings
• recreational and educational centres
• public transport
• restaurants
• other specified public places

Photography

It's illegal to photograph:

• government or military infrastructure or equipment
• places used by security forces
• communications infrastructure
• civil infrastructure
• any other prohibited places or areas in the vicinity of such places

Brunei’s Sharia (Syariah) Penal Code came fully into effect from April 2019.

Sharia law applies to:

• Muslims and
• non-Muslims

whether resident Bruneians or foreigners. It applies even when transiting on Brunei-registered aircraft and vessels.

Non-Muslims may be arrested for being in close proximity with a Muslim of the opposite sex under the Sharia Penal Code – an offence known as khalwat .

Common law and courts will continue to operate in parallel with the Sharia Penal Code and courts.

Serious crimes can attract:

• the death penalty
• physical punishment
• imprisonment

Crimes that attract the death penalty include:

• Syariah Penal Code (Brunei Attorney-General's Chambers)

Some drug offences carry a mandatory death penalty. Other penalties include long prison sentences and physical punishment.

• Carrying or using drugs

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Brunei doesn't recognise  dual nationality .

Australians entering with a Bruneian passport will be treated as Bruneian by local authorities.

Enter on an Australian passport to ensure access to Australian consular services.

Local customs

Dress and behaviour standards are conservative. Take care not to offend.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Be cautious when making comments about local issues, particularly those relating to the royal family. You could cause offence or even attract legal consequences.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Brunei. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to travel to Brunei. Visas and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Brunei High Commission or Brunei Ministry of Foreign Affairs for details about visas, currency, customs, and quarantine rules.

Immigration regulations are strictly enforced and overstaying can attract physical punishments.

Check the entry stamp in your passport to confirm how long you can stay.

Monitor your immigration status and visa expiry date.

• Brunei Department of Immigration and National Registration
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Border measures

You must have the following before boarding your flight:

• a valid air ticket
• a valid visa (for visa-required passport holders).
• a completed E-Arrival Card

You're required to complete an E-Arrival Card online before arriving in and departing Brunei. This includes air, land and sea routes. Transit passengers who do not pass through Brunei's immigration control posts will not be required to complete an E-Arrival Card. Refer to Brunei's  Immigration and National Registration System Portal  for more information.

Children under 18 do not need to be fully vaccinated to enter or transit through Brunei.

Other formalities

If you wish to cross Brunei's land or sea borders, you must apply online through the  Exit and Entry System (EES) . There is a service fee of $BND 3.00.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Check that your passport has at least 6 blank pages back-to-back, as recommended by Brunei authorities.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact  the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you’re overseas, contact the nearest  Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Brunei Dollar ($BND). You can also use Singapore dollars ($SGD). They have the same value as the BND.

You can use credit cards in some places.

Australian dollars can be changed at banks, hotels and authorised exchange bureaus.

Local travel

If you plan to visit Malaysia, including Sabah or Sarawak, read our  travel advice for Malaysia .

If you plan to visit Kalimantan, read our  travel advice for Indonesia .

Driving permit

To drive in Brunei for up to 1 year, you need both:

• an Australian driver's licence
• a valid international driving permit (IDP)

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

You should get a local driver’s licence if you need to drive for longer than 1 year.

Road travel

Driving can be dangerous. It's common for drivers to:

• drive through red lights
• exceed the speed limit
• not use seatbelts
• drive without a licence or insurance

If you plan to drive:

• check that your insurance policy covers driving
• get to know the local traffic laws and practices
• drive legally
• avoid 'road rage'
• don't react to other drivers

If you're involved in a road accident as a driver, don't leave the scene or move your vehicle until the police have arrived.

There are limits on the sale of diesel and petrol for vehicles not registered in Brunei.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check whether your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. You can arrange them:

• through your hotel
• at the Brunei International Airport
• through DART Taxi online

Public transport

A very limited public bus service operates throughout Brunei.  For the main Brunei-Muara and Kuala Belait districts the services operate between 6am and 8pm.

The bus service is often unreliable.

• Transport and getting around safely

International cruise lines stop over in Brunei.

• Going on a cruise

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Brunei's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Australian High Commission, Bandar Seri Begawan

Level 6, Dar Takaful IBB Utama building Jalan Pemancha Bandar Seri Begawan BS 8711 Brunei Darussalam Phone: (+673) 222 9435 Fax: (+673) 222 1652 Email:  [email protected] Website:  bruneidarussalam.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in Brunei Darussalam

Twitter:  @AusHCBrunei  

Check the Australian High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can’t contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Economy
• 4.3 Culture
• 4.4 Geography and climate
• 4.5 Tourist information
• 6.1 Entry requirements
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.5 By boat
• 7.2 By taxi
• 7.3 By ride-hailing
• 7.4 By tour vans
• 7.5 By boat
• 7.7 By thumb
• 9.1 Scuba diving
• 10.3 Souvenirs
• 14 Stay safe
• 15 Stay healthy
• 17.1 By phone

The Sultanate of Brunei is a small but — thanks to natural gas and petroleum resources — very rich country on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia .

Although Brunei is not on most travellers' radar, it is a country of tranquil mosques, pristine jungles, and friendly inhabitants. Its full name is Negara Brunei Darussalam , with Darussalam appropriately meaning "Abode of Peace".

• 4.892 114.939 1 Bandar Seri Begawan – the capital, sometimes known as "Bandar" or "BSB" for short
• 4.708333 115.073611 2 Bangar – gateway town to the unspoilt nature of Temburong
• 4.583333 114.183333 3 Kuala Belait – second largest city and border town on the way to Sarawak , Malaysia
• 5.0268 115.0693 4 Muara — a small port town
• 4.806667 114.659167 6 Tutong – a small town, located on the banks of Tutong River

Other destinations

• 4.478 115.2077 1 Ulu Temburong National Park – the first and the only national park established in Brunei, contains unspoilt jungle and is known as the "Green Jewel of Brunei"

Brunei is a pint-sized oil-rich sultanate with a population of 450,000 as of 2016, strategically positioned on the South China Sea, close to vital sea lanes linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its oil resources have generated great wealth for the Sultan and some of the local people, and the best evidence of this is seen in the palaces and mosques. However many Bruneians, including those who live in the water village (Kampong Ayer), still have relatively simple, albeit comfortable livelihoods.

The description of an "oil-rich sultanate" might conjure the images of Dubai or Qatar , but travellers with such expectations will likely be disappointed. Brunei does not have much in terms of grandiose man-made attractions, and although excellent diving and jungle trekking are available, it does not have mind-blowing natural parks as the neighbouring Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak do. Many people that visit Brunei actually do so only for the sake of "country collection" or "passport stamp collection".

If there are attractions particular to Brunei, it is perhaps the absence of crowds, the comfortable but relaxed atmosphere, and the way that society remains religious and conservative, refusing to embrace modernity and globalisation despite having the material wealth to do so.

The Sultanate of Brunei's heyday occurred between the 15th-17th centuries, when its control extended over coastal areas of northwest Borneo and the southern Philippines . Brunei subsequently entered a period of decline brought on by internal strife over royal succession, colonial expansion of European powers, and piracy. In 1888, Brunei became a British protectorate. It was offered the opportunity to join Malaysia as a state in 1963, but opted out of the federation due to a disagreement on the amount of its oil income that would have to be given to the central government in Kuala Lumpur. After an Indonesian-backed insurrection failed in 1962, the Sultan consolidated power as an absolute monarch, and the country is under a constant state of emergency renewed every 2 years. Independence was achieved in 1984. One family has ruled Brunei for over six centuries.

After independence, the Brunei Investment Agency invested some US$40 billion of Brunei's funds in Crown Prince and Finance Minister Jefri Bolkiah's Amedeo fund. When the Asian financial crisis hit in 1998, it turned out that Jefri had appropriated some $14.8 billion of the sum for himself, using the funds to amass 2,000 cars, a private Boeing 747 jumbo jet, a yacht named Tits and life-size golden statues of himself having sex. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah sent Jefri to the naughty corner and has personally overseen the sultanate's finances ever since.

The Istana Nurul Iman is the world's largest occupied residential palace. The 300-acre palace sits on a man-made hill with a clear view of Kampong Ayer. Istana Nurul Iman is the residence of the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and the palace is quoted to have an estimated value at USD 600 million.

The backbone of Brunei's economy is oil and gas and the Sultan of Brunei is, famously, one of the richest people in the world with an estimated personal wealth of around USD 40 billion. Per capita GDP is far above most other developing countries, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements income from domestic production. The government provides all citizens with a comprehensive welfare state without levying any income tax.

All sectors of the economy are fairly heavily regulated and government policy is an odd mixture of subsidies, protectionism and encouragement of entrepreneurship. Brunei's leaders are attempting to balance the country's steadily increasing integration into the world economy with internal social cohesion. It became a more prominent player in the world by serving as chairman for the 2005 APEC (Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) Forum. Plans for the future include upgrading the workforce, reducing unemployment, strengthening the banking and tourist sectors, and, in general, widening the economic base beyond oil and gas.

Given their shared history, Brunei shares many cultural similarities with neighbouring Malaysia, with the Malay language serving as a common link between both countries.

Brunei is officially an Islamic state, with many large beautiful mosques across the country. Sale of alcohol is banned. Bringing in meat (other than seafood) that has not been certified "halal" (slaughtered according to Islamic law) is also banned. It is possible, however, to find pork at eateries catering to the ethnic Chinese community. During the fasting month of Ramadan, many non-Muslim-owned shops and restaurants will be open. However, eating, drinking or smoking in front of people who are fasting is considered rude and asking permission is appropriate. Expect everything to be closed - including hotel restaurants, and all shops - during Friday prayers (12:00-14:00) [1] all year. Things start closing around 11:00, and start reopening again around 14:00. Even the buses stop running, though you might still be able to catch a water taxi.

The bulk of the population is Malay (67%) and there is also a significant Chinese minority of around 15% as well as a number of indigenous peoples, including the Iban and Dusun tribes who inhabit the jungle upriver and the Temburong district (the smaller eastern part detached from the rest of Brunei). There are many foreign workers who work on the oil and gas production or in lower positions such as restaurant staff, field workers and domestic staff. The male to female ratio is 3:2. More than a quarter of the people are short term immigrant workers, most of whom are men.

Geography and climate

Brunei's climate is sub-tropical. Temperatures range from 14-33°C, January being the hottest month. The rainy season is always mild and humid, followed by a hot and humid dry season. The difference between the two seasons is not that marked, however. The rainforest and jungle areas tend to be cooler and wetter than the coastal region.

Brunei's topology is of a flat coastal plain rises to mountains in the east, the highest point being Bukit Pagan at 1,850 metres, with some hilly lowlands in the west.

There are no typhoons, earthquakes, severe flooding or other forms of natural disasters to contend with, and the biggest environmental issue is the seasonal haze resulting from forest fires (that is caused by illegal clearing of land) in nearby Indonesia.

Tourist information

• Brunei Tourism website

The official language of Brunei is Malay ( Bahasa Melayu ), but due to its British colonial past, English is widely spoken and understood in urban areas, though sometimes with a thick accent. A little Malay will come in handy in rural areas, as English proficiency is limited there.

While all Bruneians are able to speak standard Malay, the local dialect of Malay has some ideosyncrasies that can make it tricky to understand if you only just started learning Malay. Brunei also officially uses the Arabic script for Malay known as Jawi . Outside of government signage and religious publications almost all signs use the Roman alphabet.

The ethnic Chinese community in Brunei continues to speak a variety of Chinese languages, including Hokkien , Teochew , and several others. Mandarin is taught in Chinese schools, so most ethnic Chinese are conversant in it as well.

Tourist sites always have signage in English, and often in Chinese as well due to the large numbers of Chinese tourists.

Compared to other nations in South East Asia , Brunei's visa policy is a bit more restrictive.

Entry requirements

All foreign nationals must fill out an online arrival form prior to their arrival in Brunei.

Foreign nationals of the following countries/territories can enter Brunei visa-free as long as they present a passport valid for at least 6 months:

For up to 90 days: All European Union member states, British citizens and subjects with right of abode in the United Kingdom , Iceland , Liechtenstein , Norway , Switzerland , United States

For up to 30 days: Malaysia , New Zealand , Oman , San Marino , Singapore , South Korea , Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates

For up to 14 days: Cambodia , Canada , Japan , Hong Kong , Indonesia , Laos , Macau , Maldives , Myanmar , Peru , Russia , Philippines , Thailand and Vietnam

Nationals of Israel are not allowed to enter Brunei, though other passports containing Israeli stamps and visas are not a problem for entry.

Citizens of Australia and Bahrain can obtain a visa on arrival (single or multiple entry) for 30 days. Citizens of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait can get a single-entry, 30-day visa on arrival. Citizens of China , Qatar and Taiwan can obtain a visa on arrival for 14 days. These citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for $20 or a 3-day transit visa for $5. Immigration officers at Sungai Tujoh Checkpoint between Miri and Kuala Belait will not accept payment for a visa on arrival other than in Brunei or Singapore dollars — there is no ATM and cheques are not accepted. At Brunei airport payment must also be made in cash. There is a money changer (with reasonable rates), but no ATM prior to immigration. If you need a visa-on-arrival, make sure you join the right queue at entry. Joining the foreign passport queue will see you sent to the back of the line. Large tour groups requiring visas on arrival can jam up the system. You may have to be quick, persistent or patient.

Proof of return or onward travel is officially required to check in for your flight to Brunei. If you plan to leave by ferry you will need to purchase a cheap flight out of Brunei before you arrive there. Alternatively, you can book an expensive (but fully refundable) flight, and cancel it afterwards.

From Kuala Lumpur , Air Asia is not enforcing this rule; hence you probably won't need such a proof of return if you fly from KL.

Those who need a visa must apply in advance at a Brunei embassy, where processing can take up to 3 days and costs $20 for a single entry visa. See Brunei Immigration Department for the latest details.

Getting there/away: A taxi to Bandar Seri Begawan downtown takes 20 minutes and costs around $25. A covered walk down to the end of the car park further away from the Terminal (turn right from Arrivals) leads to a bus stop for Purple buses to the city centre ($1) that only run during the day.

If flights to Brunei are full or expensive, an alternative is flying to nearby Miri in Malaysia and taking the bus to Brunei instead (3 hours).

You can drive into Brunei from Sarawak , Malaysia . There are two entry points for the main part of Brunei, one from Miri at Sungai Tujuh and one from Limbang at Kuala Lurah (Tedungan on the Malaysian side). Both these crossings have drive-through immigration checkpoints at the border but queues can be horribly long, especially during weekends.

It is also possible to drive from the Sarawak towns of Limbang and Lawas to the Temburong district of Brunei. A bridge across the Pandaruan River was opened in December 2013 and the ferry service has been discontinued. Immigration is conducted at Pandaruan (Malaysia side) and at Puni (Brunei side). From Lawas (which is connected by road to Kota Kinabalu in Sabah , Malaysia), another bridge completes the connection between the banks of the Trusan River (and no ferry ride is required anymore). Malaysian immigration formalities are done in Trusan (the Mengkalap immigration checkpoint is in a shoplot just east of the ferry crossing) about 8 km away, and no longer in Lawas. Those for Brunei can be done at the Labu checkpoint at the border.

It is possible to drive from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah to Bandar Seri Begawan in one day. See the Kota Kinabalu to Brunei by land page for details.

Only some petrol stations in the country are permitted to sell petrol to cars with non-Brunei plates due to a tax issue. It can be frustrating to find these stations and so ensure your car is topped up.

The toll-free Friendship Bridge connects the two borders at the eastern side of Limbang.

• From Miri: As of 2022, there is no direct service between Miri and Bandar Seri Begawan . PHLS Express used to operate a service between Miri and Bandar Seri Begawan twice a day. It is possible to book a cab with ride hailing app Dart.
• From Limbang: There are no direct buses between Bandar Seri Begawan and Limbang in Sarawak. However, you can catch a local bus from Bandar's bus station to Kuala Lurah on the border, walk across the checkpoint into Tedungan in Sarawak and catch a Syarikat Bas Limbang bus to Limbang. Do the reverse if coming from Limbang to Bandar. Buses depart from Limbang bus terminal several times a day and bear the destination "Batu Danau". Taxis are also available on both sides of the border but bargain hard for the fare. You can also get to Temburong district by bus from Limbang, although again, there are no direct buses into Bangar ; all buses (destination "Pandaruan") stop at the ferry landing at Pandaruan, where there is now a Malaysian immigration checkpoint. Cross the river by ferry and catch a taxi for the 5 km to Bangar.
• From Kota Kinabalu: buses run once a day between BSB and Kota Kinabalu , Malaysia .

The main ferry terminal in Brunei is the Serasa Ferry Terminal at Muara, some 25 km from Bandar Seri Begawan . See Bandar Seri Begawan#By boat for details about the terminal.

Labuan Ferry operates services from Labuan , taking around 2 hours. As of April 2023, two ferries are operating on most days, one at 8:30am and another at 1.00pm or 4:30pm, with schedules changing on short notice. With a change of boats in Labuan , you can even make it to/from Kota Kinabalu , Sabah , in a day. See the Kota Kinabalu to Brunei by land page.

Use caution when asking locals for transportation information. People here are friendly and very helpful, but when asking about transportation, you'll get three different answers from three different people, even people whose job it is to help tourists.

There is one "motorway", from Bandar Seri Begawan (the capital) along the coast. It is almost all dual carriageway from Muara to Kuala Belait and the toll bridge to Malaysia / Sarawak in the west.

There is also a side road off this, which runs into the jungle towards the settlement of Labi and beyond. Excellent scenery, and a 4-wheel drive may be useful, but the road is now sealed up to the longhouses some distance beyond Labi. Stock up on water at the convenient shop at the junction.

Driving between Temburong and the rest of Brunei used to require passing through Malaysian territory, and clearing Malaysian customs and immigration, but since the completion of the Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Bridge in 2020, that is no longer necessary.

There are not many taxis in Brunei, because car ownership and usage are high. There are always some at the airport and some in the Belait District, but little chance of finding a free taxi along the road, especially during morning and afternoon peak hours when they are hired by businessmen. Needing a taxi might require a phone call. The main taxi stand is direct north of the bus station in the capital with only a few taxis waiting.

None of the taxis has a taxi meter since there is no taxi company nor regulation requiring to have one. Drivers have fixed prices for most trips, although the tariffs may vary between different drivers, or they will give a price for an irregular trip.

By ride-hailing

The main ride-hailing app in Brunei is Dart . Well-known ride-hailing apps found elsewhere in Southeast Asia, such as Grab and Gojek, do not operate in Brunei.

By tour vans

Another alternative is hiring a tour van to drive you around Brunei, for example, for a whole day, or several hours. Try asking them from the ferry counters in Muara. Discuss the price first before agreeing to board the van.

Around the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan , there is a good-sized network of minibuses. Brunei's high rate of private car ownership means very few Bruneians take these buses, which largely cater to foreign workers. The speed of the buses is limited to 50 km/h but are quite efficient and reliable.

In general, the bus system around the capital radiates from the bus terminal in the central district. There are designated bus stops along each route but passengers are picked up or let off at unofficial locations at the discretion of the driver. The unofficial mode of operation makes easy travel and entices patronage. There are maps of the bus routes at the terminal. Routes are numbered and the buses are different colors depending on the route. The fare is $1 which is normally collected by a conductor but may also be collected by the driver. The passenger can advise the driver the location to disembark. The buses run every 20–40 minutes from about 06:00 to 18:00. Sometimes, the conductor asks the passengers their respective locations to disembark and skips part of the route, to the dismay of passengers who wish to catch the bus. The buses run roughly every 20–40 minutes from 06:00 to 18:00, but there's no strict schedule. It is quite normal to wait 30 to 45 minutes for a bus.

There is also an infrequent long-distance bus which runs between BSB and Seria through Tutong.

Hitchhiking is doable in Brunei – drivers are very willing to stop.

• Ulu Temburong National Park in Temburong
• The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan
• Bandar Seri Begawan has a couple of museums dedicated to the history of Brunei and that of the monarchy.

For things to do in and in the near vicinity of Bandar Seri Begawan, see Bandar Seri Begawan .

There are many eco-tours which typically go to the Temburong district by boat then to a native "longhouse". It is then followed by a powered boat (by the natives) up the river to the Belalong reserve in the Borneo rainforest. There is a canopy walk and research centre at the park headquarters.

Jerudong Park was once a decent theme park with a multitude of rides. Sadly, a downward cycle of neglect, declining admission and unaffordable maintenance costs led to the closure and sale of most of the big-ticket rides, including the three roller coasters. This has given the park a sad "circus left town last week" air about it. Most people who visit only go at night to avoid the heat during the day. Outside the park, but very close, is a small complex of restaurants which is open at night, though only a few of the stalls are still operational. The local papers have reported plans to renovate the park with a new selection of attractions.

Scuba diving

Brunei offers some great diving. In addition to coral and fish, Brunei is home to several shipwrecks and many species of nudibranch (often spectacularly colourful molluscs)- one of the best places in SE Asia for macro photography. Water temperature is generally around 30 °C and visibility is usually around 10-30 metres, although this can be changeable during the monsoon season. As diving here is not overly developed, it means that the sites, and especially the coral reefs, are unspoiled and in pristine condition.

Popular dive sites include the American Wreck , Admirable Class Minesweeper, USS Salute (AM-294) lies broken in half on a sand bottom at 30m after hitting a Japanese mine on 8 June 1945, during pre-invasion sweeps of the Brunei Bay, with the loss of nine lives. Australian Wreck , In 1949 while on a voyage to Manila it struck a mine off Brunei and sank. The wreck lies in 33 m of water and is roughly 85 m. Dolphin 88 Wreck Malaysian commercial vessel sunk in bad weather in 2013. Experienced divers will enjoy exploring the interior of the wreck. Oil Rig Wreck , a decommissioned oil rig. There are 9 structures to be explored, each seeming to be home to one dominant group of fish. Baiei Maru Wreck was a Japanese oil tanker that sank in October 1944 in Brunei Bay after hitting a Japanese mine. Discovered by the Brunei Shell Petroleum during a survey, the wreck sits in about 50 m of water. Other dive sites includes Labuan Wreck , Bolkiah Wreck , UBD Wreck , Amai Wreck , Arun Wreck , Stone Wreck to name a few.

Diving is very reasonable, averaging out to $35-45 per dive depending on how many dives you do and whether you bring your own gear. There are a number of organisations you can do trips with such as; Poni Divers , Oceanic Quest [dead link] , The Brunei Sub Aqua Dive Club [dead link] in Brunei-Muara & Panaga Divers [dead link] based in Seria.

The local currency is the Brunei dollar , denoted by the symbol " $ " or " B$ " (ISO code: BND ). You might hear ringgit used to refer to the dollar but be sure that the speaker is not talking about the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) which is valued at less than a third of a Brunei dollar. All prices in this guide are in Brunei dollars unless otherwise noted.

The Brunei dollar is tied to the Singapore dollar at a 1:1 rate. By law the currencies can be used interchangeably, so if you're coming in from Singapore, there's no reason to change money as your cash will be readily accepted. (Likewise, any leftover Brunei dollars can be used at par in Singapore.) However, many stores refuse Singapore notes with seemingly microscopic tears in them, and notices to this effect are posted at the cash register. Malaysian ringgit (RM) will also be accepted in a pinch, but the exchange rate may not be in your favour. The ringgit is not available at Brunei banks but can be obtained from money changers.

The Brunei dollar is divided into 100 cents. There are banknotes [dead link] from $1 to a whopping $10,000 (handy if you're shopping for Rolls-Royces) and coins [dead link] of 1-50 cents. All smaller notes and the 2004 series of larger notes are printed as brightly coloured polymer notes.

By Southeast Asian standards Brunei is roughly on par with Singapore, meaning roughly twice as expensive as neighbouring Malaysia . You can reduce costs by eating at local restaurants and avoiding the more expensive restaurants in hotels. Budget accommodation is available.

There is not much of a local crafts industry in Brunei. You'll see a handful of different types of branded souvenirs with the Brunei brand - that are all imported. Souvenir type shops usually resort to selling imported curiosities, candles and generic gifts.

Bruneians love to eat out and there are many excellent restaurants in Brunei serving a wide variety of cuisines, thanks to the large number of foreign workers in the country.

There is also the local nasi katok , a simple combination of rice and curried beef or chicken, which can be quite spicy. It is relatively inexpensive when compared to other food that you can buy, for example local food such as chicken rice. However, it is not a healthy option, with few vegetables and too much fat.

Another choice is ambuyat , a culinary experience unique to Borneo. It is a starchy and gooey paste made from sago that can be dipped into a savoury sauce.

Being a Muslim country, nearly all food sold in Brunei is halal , the exception being food stalls and restaurants catering to the ethnic Chinese community, which have been granted special permission to sell pork. Halal certification is handled by the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) ( Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ugama (KHEU) ).

Vegetarians should look for South Asian restaurants serving the large community of foreign workers. Another option is Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurants, as many ethnic Chinese in Brunei go on vegetarian fasts for specific Buddhist festivals. These can mainly be found in the suburbs of Bandar Seri Begawan, but you will need to make an effort to seek them out. Chinese Buddhist vegetarian restaurants are also the safest bet for vegans , as they traditionally do not use dairy products, but make sure your dish does not contain eggs.

It is illegal to eat in public during daylight hours in Ramadan, and most stalls and restaurants will be closed during the day. However, Chinese restaurants are permitted to remain open and sell takeaway meals to non-Muslims for consumption in private.

Kosher food is basically non-existent in Brunei.

• Kueh melayu (sugar, raisin, and peanut-filled sweet pancakes)

Brunei is a dry country : alcohol is not sold anywhere in the country and consumption of alcohol in public is prohibited by law. That said, non-Muslims are allowed to bring in up to two litres of alcohol (wine or spirits) plus up to twelve cans of beer every 48 hours for private consumption, and there is a wide array of duty-free shops just across the border in Malaysia to cater to this demand. However, alcohol must be declared upon arrival in Brunei while going through customs. There are also numerous bars and nightclubs in Tedungan just across the border in Malaysia 's Limbang district, Sarawak, which is where many Bruneians go for a good night out.

Many higher-end restaurants allow guests to bring in their own alcohol and corkage is not charged, though this is actually illegal and it's best to keep a low profile if you choose to consume in a public establishment. At the lower end (particularly Chinese restaurants), many restaurants supply illicit booze under euphemisms like "special tea".

One should definitely try out teh tarik , a sweet milk tea, as well as the wide array of coffee ( kopi ) available in restaurants.

Accommodation in Brunei used to be very expensive, but some reasonably cheap guesthouses and hostels can now be found here and there. See Bandar Seri Begawan for listings.

Brunei is a very safe country, with low crime rates and no major security concerns. Brunei has a strict legal system ― which combines British common law and Sharia law ― that punishes crime severely, adding a huge layer of deterrance. The full harshness of Brunei's laws is reserved for criminals and those actually looking for trouble.

Brunei, like Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, has very strict laws when it comes to drugs. Drug trafficking to a certain degree has a mandatory death sentence . Other crimes, such as murder, kidnapping and unauthorised possession of firearms are also punished with death. That said, an informal moratorium of capital punishment exists, though offenders should expect life imprisonment or long prison term. Brunei uses caning (for males only) for rapes, as well as for less serious crimes, including illegal entry, overstaying your visa for over 90 days, robbery, corruption and vandalism. Caning is no slap on the wrist. Strokes from the thick rattan cane are excruciating . They can take weeks to heal, and even scar for life. These laws apply to foreigners as well.

In theory, offences such as rape, adultery, sodomy, robbery and insult or defamation of the Prophet Muhammad carry the maximum penalty of death, though this is not enforced. Homosexuality carries a penalty of 40 strokes of the cane and/or a maximum of 10 years in jail. The punishment for theft that exceeds a certain amount is amputation . Those who "persuade, tell or encourage" Muslim children under the age of 18 "to accept the teachings of religions other than Islam" are liable to a fine or jail. (These laws mostly apply to Muslims, though some aspects apply to non-Muslims.) Homosexuality and adultery are illegal in Brunei, and can result in being stoned to death .

During the Islamic month of Ramadhan , avoid consumption of food and beverages in public as a hefty fine in the thousands will be levied if caught doing so. Additionally, all restaurants, including non-halal ones, cease dine-in services during the day. It is best to avoid visiting Brunei during Ramadhan.

Driving in Brunei is easy. Most drivers obey the traffic rules, and the roads are well maintained. Distances are not great. If you're driving around Brunei, however, do watch out for impatient and/or dangerous drivers. Some drivers obviously consider themselves above the law, and given the social structure of Brunei, this is likely to actually be the case. Take extra caution around midnight and early morning as some drivers illegally race on the roads.

Public celebration of non-Muslim religious festivals such as Christmas and Easter is illegal in Brunei. It is still legal to celebrate them in private, so long as the celebrations are kept secret from Muslims.

Stay healthy

Eating out is generally safe because of good food safety standards. But drink water only if it's been boiled, or bottled water. Protect yourself from mosquito bites . Dengue fever is a real risk. Malaria risk is low.

Brunei's hospitals are generally adequate for most routine procedures. However, due to the lack of specialists, you may need to be airlifted to Singapore if your case requires complicated surgical procedures; ensure that your insurance covers this if you plan to be in Brunei.

The Brunei Government is run as a Malay Islamic Monarchy ( Melayu Islam Beraja ) principle, which means that the Sultan of Brunei, apart from being one of the richest men in the world, effectively runs the country. You can expect the Sultan to appear on the front page of the two local daily newspapers almost every day, and occupy the first ten minutes of the local TV news bulletins.

You'll see the wealth of the country in everything that the Sultan touches, but much of the rest of the country misses out on badly needed investment and development. Over half of the country are expatriate workers or permanent residents, and it's not hard to engage them in a conversation about the political situation once you gain their trust. Brunei is a country where your race, religion and heritage matter in day-to-day life. Still, it's best to approach the subject very carefully, especially with Bruneians.

The Bruneian Royal Family is protected by lèse-majesté laws; speaking out against them or making fun of them is a crime and will culminate in a prison sentence.

Bruneians are generally courteous and tolerant. Non-Muslim visitors are generally not restricted in their manner of dress. Women can wear sleeveless shirts and shorts and blend in, and are not legally required to wear the hijab, known locally as the tudung . Super-skimpy swimming attire is probably one step too far.

It is a good idea to keep your ideas to yourself on politics (domestic, regional, or international) and world events, particularly those relating to Islam or Islamic countries, but most Bruneians are more than happy to discuss the role their religion and royalty play in their lives if you listen respectfully.

Like in Malaysia, you'll often be expected to take your shoes off in Brunei, in places like hostels, museums, and mosques. Wear socks if you want, and be grateful for the opportunity to cool off your feet after walking around in the tropical heat.

The international code for Brunei is 673 . The telephone numbers in Brunei consist of 7 digits with no local codes, although the first digit of the number indicates the area such as 3 for the Belait District and 2 for Bandar Seri Begawan.

The prepaid Hallo Kad , available from TelBru telephone offices (including one at the airport) and other outlets in denominations from $5-50 can be used at any phone in the country to make local and international calls. Other phone cards are also available for use in public phones.

Mobile phone services are provided by two network operator DST e Progresif Cellular . Coverage is completed across almost all of the country. Coverage in the Temburong national park areas may be patchy.

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BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE

Brunei is a small nation on the island of Borneo, known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It's a country where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, offering visitors a unique experience. Although it’s one of the smallest countries, the Sultan of Brunei is the world’s richest monarch; the people have the highest per capita incomes in the world; there are no personal taxes; healthcare and education are free, and houses and cars are subsidised. Sounds too good to be true?

The Sultanate of Brunei is one of the richest nations in Asia and is the closest Southeast Asia comes to Utopia. Located on the island of Borneo, Brunei is a land of sandy beaches, forests and rivers. The country’s full official name is Brunei Darussalam, where the term “Darussalam,” means “abode of peace” in Arabic. From the opulent Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque to the lush greenery of Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei is indeed a place of peace and natural beauty. The nation's commitment to preserving its environment and culture makes it a fascinating destination for those looking to explore the treasures of Southeast Asia.

Official Name : Brunei Darussalam ("Darussalam" means "Abode of Peace" in Arabic)

Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan

Government:  Absolute Monarchy

Currency: Bruneian dollar (BND) (pegged 1:1 with the Singapore dollar, SGD)

Wealth : Brunei is one of the wealthiest nations in the world due to its abundant oil and gas reserves

Area: 5,765km²

Population:  455 491 (2024)

Language: Malay (official), English (recognised)

Religion:  Muslim (official) 67%, Buddhist 13%, Christian 10%, indigenous beliefs and other 10%

Electricity: 240V, 50Hz (UK plug)

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BEST TIME TO VISIT BRUNEI

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Brunei is between March and October, during the drier months when temperatures are more pleasant and there is less chance of rain. However, Brunei has a tropical climate, which means that it is hot and humid all year round. 

Overall, the dry season from January to May is considered the best time to visit Brunei for favourable weather and to experience key cultural events. During this period, the country experiences less rainfall and lower humidity compared to the rest of the year, making it a more comfortable time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is relatively pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 23°C and 31°C. The dry season is ideal for exploring Brunei's natural beauty, including visits to Ulu Temburong National Park, beaches, and other outdoor destinations. It is also a great time for hiking, river cruises, and wildlife watching. These months will also allow you to experience several festivals and events such as Chinese New Year (January or February, depending on the lunar calendar), Brunei National Day (February 23rd) and Hari Raya Aidilfitri (between late April and early June).

It’s essential to note that June to August is the high tourist season in Brunei. So, if you’re planning a visit, consider the dry months of January to May for a more comfortable experience! 

The rainy season, which typically lasts from November to February, is characterized by heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. This can make traveling more difficult and some areas may be flooded.

BEST TIME FOR:

Best Beaches

With just over 160km of coastline, Brunei has everything from activity-based beaches like Muara Beach to untouched, peaceful beaches like Tungku Beach. 

The best time to visit beaches in Brunei is between January and May when the weather is fairly dry, but not too hot. Although June to August is the peak tourist season, it is incredibly hot! The rainy season is from September to December. 

Be sure to check out these beaches: 

Muara Beach : Known for its long stretch of white sand, clear waters, and family-friendly atmosphere. The beach has picnic areas, barbecue pits, and a children's playground. Good for : Swimming, picnicking, and beach sports.

Serasa Beach : Popular for water sports and activities. The beach is home to the Serasa Water Sports Complex, which offers jet skiing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Good for : Water sports, picnicking, and fishing.

Tungku Beach : Known for its serene environment and beautiful sunsets. It is less developed compared to other beaches, offering a more tranquil experience. Good for : Beachcombing, picnicking, and enjoying sunsets.

Pelumpong Spit : A narrow spit of sand that extends into the sea, offering a unique beach experience. It is less crowded and ideal for those seeking solitude. Good for : Swimming, snorkelling, and picnicking.

Jerudong Beach : A quiet beach with scenic views and nearby facilities such as restaurants and a golf course. Good for : Walking, picnicking, and enjoying the nearby attractions.

Other beaches include: Meragang Beach, Berakas Beach, Seri Kenangan Beach & Tanjong Batu Beach.

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BRUNEI TRAVEL COSTS

Travel Cost Section

VALUE RANK:

The cost of travelling to Brunei can vary depending on the time of year, your travel itinerary and your personal preferences. However, in general, Brunei is considered to be a relatively affordable destination.

Here are some estimated costs for various aspects of a trip to Brunei:

Accommodation : Prices for hotels in Brunei range from around $30 to $200 per night. Hostels and budget-friendly options are also available.

Food : Eating out in Brunei is relatively inexpensive, with meals at local restaurants typically costing around $5 to $10 per person.

Transportation : Public transportation in Brunei is relatively cheap, with bus and taxi fares averaging around $1 to $3 per trip.

Activities : Many of the top attractions in Brunei, such as the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Royal Regalia Museum, and the Kampong Ayer, are free to visit.

It's important to note that the costs above are general estimates, and the actual costs of your trip may vary depending on your specific plans and choices. However, overall, Brunei can be considered an affordable destination for travellers.

Here is an example of a daily budget for a trip to Brunei:

Accommodation : $40 - $60 per night for a budget hotel or guesthouse

Food : $15 - $20 per day for meals at local restaurants and street food

Transportation : $5 - $10 per day for local buses, taxis and ferries

Activities : $10 - $20 per day for admission to museums and other attractions

Total daily budget: $70 - $100

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Travel tips for brunei.

Dress modestly : Brunei is a Muslim country, and it's important to dress modestly when visiting. Women should wear long pants or skirts and cover their shoulders, and men should avoid wearing shorts.

Be respectful of local customs : Brunei is a conservative country, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, avoid public displays of affection and avoid taking photos of people without permission.

Alcohol : The sale of alcohol is prohibited in Brunei.

Bring cash : While credit cards are accepted in some places such as hotels, restaurants and larger shops, it's a good idea to bring cash as well, as many places still only accept cash.

Plan ahead for Ramadan : If you're visiting Brunei during the month of Ramadan, be aware that many businesses and restaurants will be closed during the day, and it's important to be respectful of those who are fasting.

Language : The official language is Malay. Although English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourist areas, learning a few basic Malay phrases can be helpful and is appreciated by locals.

Bring insect repellent : As Brunei is a tropical country, it's a good idea to bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other bugs.

Plan for the rainy season : If you're visiting during the rainy season, be prepared for the heavy rainfall and potential for flooding in certain areas.

Try the local cuisine : Brunei has a unique and delicious cuisine, try out the local dishes like ambuyat, a starchy dish made from the trunk of the sago palm tree.

Dining Etiquette : Eating with your right hand is customary. In some traditional settings, you may be required to sit on the floor.

SIM Cards : Local SIM cards are available at the airport and in the city. Major providers include DST and Progresif.

Internet Access : Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be able to fully enjoy your trip to Brunei and have a great experience.

BRUNEI TRAVEL TIPS

Travel Tips Section

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF BRUNEI

Brunei is divided into four main regions each offering unique attractions and experiences:

1. Brunei-Muara District

The Brunei-Muara District is the smallest but most populous district, housing the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, and is the main hub for tourism.

Bandar Seri Begawan :

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque : An iconic mosque with stunning architecture and a picturesque lagoon.

Kampong Ayer (Water Village) : The "Venice of the East" Kampong Ayer is one of the world’s largest stilt villages, showcasing traditional wooden houses and cultural heritage. Located on stilts over the Brunei River, a visit to Kampong Ayer is a must-see attraction when in Bandar Seri Begawan. The best way to experience this is to take a river cruise on the Kampong Ayer.

Royal Regalia Museum : Displays the royal regalia, artefacts, and gifts to the Sultan.

Istana Nurul Iman : The official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, which opens to the public during Hari Raya.

Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque : The largest mosque in Brunei and is known for its impressive architecture and intricate details, it can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers at a time.

Tasek Lama Recreational Park : A popular park with hiking trails, a waterfall, and a serene environment.

Muara Beach : A long, sandy beach ideal for picnics and relaxation.

Pantai Serasa Beach : A stunning 1.5 km long artificial beach located in Serasa Bay, known for swimming, sunbathing and water sports, including jet skiing and windsurfing.

2. Belait District

Belait is the largest district, located in the west of the country and known for its oil and gas industry. The region offers a mix of natural and industrial attractions.

Kuala Belait :

Oil and Gas Discovery Centre : An educational centre showcasing the history and technology of Brunei’s oil industry.

Silver Jubilee Park : A coastal park with recreational facilities and a pleasant beachfront.

The Billionth Barrel Monument : Commemorates the production of the billionth barrel of oil from the Seria oil field.

Luagan Lalak Recreation Park : Features a unique freshwater swamp that changes appearance with the seasons.

Labi Longhouses : Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Iban people by visiting longhouses.

Teraja Waterfall : A scenic waterfall located in the dense rainforest, accessible via hiking trails.

3. Tutong District

Tutong is located to the north of Bandar Seri Begawan and is known for its serene environment, diverse culture, beautiful beaches, lush forests and natural attractions.

Tutong Town :

Pantai Seri Kenangan : A scenic beach known as the "Unforgettable Beach" for its beautiful sunsets and relaxed atmosphere.

Bukit Patoi Forest Recreation Park : Offers hiking trails leading to the summit of Bukit Patoi, providing panoramic views.

Tasek Merimbun :

Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park : Brunei’s largest natural lake, ideal for birdwatching, picnics, and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

4. Temburong District

Temburong is separated from the rest of Brunei by Malaysia and is renowned for its unspoiled rainforests, protected wildlife and eco-tourism.

Ulu Temburong National Park : This is the largest national park in Brunei and is known for its pristine rainforests, diverse wildlife and beautiful waterfalls. Visitors can explore the park on guided tours, which include jungle trekking, canopy walks, and river cruises.

Canopy Walkway : A treetop walkway that rises to a height of 50 meters above the forest floor offering breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy.

River Safari : A boat ride through the jungle, providing opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the lush scenery.

Adventure Activities : Hiking, kayaking, and exploring the pristine rainforest.

Bukit Patoi Forest Reserve: A captivating natural area located within the Peradayan Forest Reserve. To reach the park, you can take a 45-minute speedboat ride from Bandar Seri Begawan to Bangar, Temburong.

Sumbiling Eco Village : An eco-tourism site offering cultural experiences and nature-based activities.

Batang Duri : Starting point for river tours and access to Ulu Temburong National Park.

Each region in Brunei has its own unique attractions, so it's worth exploring all of them to get a complete understanding of the country. From the cultural and historical sites in Brunei-Muara to the natural wonders in Temburong, whether you’re interested in exploring vibrant cities, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or immersing yourself in lush rainforests, Brunei has something to offer for every traveller.

SIGHTS & HIGHLIGHTS OF BRUNEI

Sights and Highlights section

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WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN BRUNEI

The ideal duration for visiting Brunei depends on your interests and travel style. A 3-day visit covers the main attractions, while 4-5 days allow for a deeper dive into Brunei's culture and nature. An extended visit of 7+ days provides a comprehensive experience with ample relaxation time. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:

Interests : If you have a keen interest in nature, you might want to spend more time exploring national parks and outdoor activities.

Pace : Some travellers prefer a relaxed pace, while others might want to see as much as possible in a short time.

Events and Festivals : If your visit coincides with a major event or festival, you might want to allocate extra time to experience it fully.

Travel Time : Consider travel time to and from Brunei, as well as any potential jet lag recovery if you’re travelling from afar.

Here is a suggested 3-day travel itinerary to get you started:

3 DAY TRAVEL ITINERARY FOR BRUNEI

Day 1: discovering bandar seri begawan.

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque : Start your day at this iconic mosque. Its stunning architecture and serene lagoon make it a perfect introduction to Brunei’s culture and heritage. Spend some time exploring the mosque’s interior (if open to non-Muslims at the time) and the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Royal Regalia Museum : A short walk from the mosque, this museum offers a glimpse into the opulence of Brunei’s monarchy. See the regalia used during the Sultan’s coronation and various gifts from foreign dignitaries.

Eat like a local : Head to a local restaurant like Tarindak D'Seni for authentic Bruneian cuisine with a view of the Brunei River.

Kampong Ayer (Water Village) : Take a boat tour of this historic water village, often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” Visit a traditional home to experience the lifestyle and culture of the villagers.

Tamu Kianggeh Market : Explore this bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, traditional snacks, and handicrafts.

Luxurious Dinner : Enjoy a luxurious dinner at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, such as Pantai or Spaghettini.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Ulu Temburong National Park : Take an early morning boat and longboat ride to this pristine rainforest. Participate in the canopy walk for breathtaking views of the jungle, and enjoy activities like river tubing or hiking. Enjoy a picnic lunch arranged as part of the tour. Discover more of the park’s flora and fauna, visit waterfalls, or simply relax by the riverside.

Return to Bandar Seri Begawan : Have a relaxed dinner at Kaizen Sushi for some of the best Japanese food in Brunei.

Day 3: Cultural and Historical Insights

Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque : Visit the largest mosque in Brunei, known for its golden domes and magnificent architecture. Spend some time admiring the intricate details and serene environment.

Brunei Museum : Learn about the rich history, culture, and natural history of Brunei.

Traditional Lunch : Have lunch at Aminah Arif Restaurant to try Brunei’s famous ambuyat, a traditional dish.

Istana Nurul Iman (Sultan's Palace) : Although not open to the public, you can view the grand palace from a distance. During Hari Raya, the palace opens to the public, and visitors can meet the Sultan.

Malay Technology Museum : Explore exhibits on traditional industries, crafts, and technologies used by the Malay people.

Visit Gadong Night Market : End your trip with a visit to this vibrant market, where you can sample a variety of local street food and snacks. Try some popular dishes like satay, grilled seafood, and kuih-muih (traditional cakes).

WHAT TO EAT IN BRUNEI

Brunei offers a diverse range of delicious and unique dishes to try when visiting. Remember to explore local markets and eateries to fully immerse yourself in Brunei’s culinary delights! Here are some popular traditional dishes to try:

Ambuyat : This is considered the national dish of Brunei. It’s made from the inner trunk of the sago palm. It is a sticky dough-like substance, similar to tapioca, that is dipped into a variety of flavourful sauces.

Nasi Katok : This is a simple but delicious dish that consists of steamed rice served with a choice of curry or fried chicken. It's a popular street food and can be found at many local food stalls.

Kelupis: This is a Bruneian kuih (mini snack or dessert) made from glutinous rice cooked with ingredients like coconut milk and pandan leaves.

The rolls are wrapped in Daun Nyirik leaves, steamed, and dried. It’s a common treat at wedding receptions.

Satay : This is a popular Southeast Asian dish that consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually chicken or beef. It's often served with a peanut sauce and is a must-try when visiting Brunei.

Laksa : This is a spicy noodle soup that is made with a variety of ingredients, including coconut milk, shrimp, and vegetables. It's a popular street food and can be found at many local food stalls.

Mee Goreng : This is a popular traditional dish that is made with stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and meat. It's a great option for those who love spicy food.

Ayam Penyet: This is another popular choice for lunch or dinner. It features smashed fried chicken, which is incredibly flavorful and affordable.

Soto : This is a traditional Bruneian soup made with chicken or beef and served with noodles.

Kueh : This is a traditional Bruneian dessert made from glutinous rice and is steamed, it is sweet and savory.

Takoyaki : This is a popular street food that is made with a batter that is filled with diced octopus.

Air Batu Campur  (ABC): This is a popular local dessert that is made with shaved ice and a variety of toppings, such as fruit, red beans, and glutinous rice.

Roti: Brunei offers various types of roti, including flatbreads and stuffed versions. Try them with curry or other flavorful dips.

Ketupat: This is a type of rice cake wrapped in woven palm leaves and commonly enjoyed during festive occasions.

Local fruits : Try some of the exotic fruits that are grown in Brunei such as Durian, Rambutan and others.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious traditional dishes that you can try when visiting Brunei. Be sure to sample as many different dishes as possible to get a true taste of the country's cuisine.

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LGBTQ IN BRUNEI

WHERE TO STAY IN BRUNEI

When visiting Brunei for the first time, choosing the right area or region to stay in is crucial for experiencing the country's rich cultural heritage, pristine rainforests, and Islamic architecture. Here are some recommendations along with accommodation suggestions for each category: budget, mid-range, and luxury.

Where to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan:

Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city of Brunei, is where you'll find the country's most iconic landmarks, including the majestic Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the opulent Istana Nurul Iman palace, making it an ideal base for exploring Brunei's cultural and historical treasures.

Budget:   Badi'ah Hote l - Affordable hotel located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, offering clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities at a reasonable price.

Mid-range:   The Brunei Hote l - Situated in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, The Brunei Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations with comfortable rooms and basic amenities. Guests appreciate its central location, friendly staff, and proximity to attractions such as the Royal Regalia Museum and Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

Luxury:   Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam : Located in the city center, Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam offers luxury accommodations with modern amenities and personalized service. Guests can stay in spacious rooms and suites, enjoy access to a swimming pool, fitness center, and dine at the hotel's restaurant serving international cuisine.

Tips:  For the best value accommodation in Bandar Seri Begawan, consider booking your stay during the weekdays rather than weekends, as hotels may offer lower rates due to decreased business travel.

Where to stay in the Tutong District:

Tutong District offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city, with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and traditional kampong (village) lifestyle, providing visitors with a glimpse into Brunei's natural beauty and rural culture.

Budget:   Riverside Residence by Gina Suite  - Affordable guesthouse located along the Tutong River, offering cozy rooms with river views and easy access to outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking.

Mid-range:   Jeruton Hotel  - A charming boutique hotel set amidst tropical gardens, offering comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and guided tours to nearby attractions like Tasek Merimbun, Brunei's largest lake.

Tips:  To find the best value accommodation in Tutong District, consider booking directly with guesthouses or smaller hotels, which may offer special packages or discounts for longer stays or group bookings.

Where to stay in the Belait District (Kuala Belait):

Belait District is known for its oil industry and scenic coastal landscapes, with attractions such as the Billionth Barrel Monument and the picturesque Pantai Seri Kenangan beach, offering visitors a mix of industrial heritage and natural beauty.

Budget:   Seri Belait Hotel : Seri Belait Hotel provides affordable accommodations with clean rooms and friendly service. Guests appreciate its central location and easy access to Kuala Belait's business district and recreational facilities.

Mid-range:   Garden Sentral Hotel  - A modern hotel featuring comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a central location near Kuala Belait's shops and eateries.

Luxury:   Keoja Hotel : Keoja Hotel offers luxury accommodations with elegant rooms and upscale amenities. Guests can indulge in spacious suites, fine dining experiences, and leisure facilities such as a swimming pool and spa.

Tips:  For the best value accommodation in Belait District, consider visiting during the off-peak season (January to March and October to December) when prices are lower, and there are fewer tourists, but the weather is still pleasant for outdoor activities.

For hassle-free bookings, use platforms like   Booking.com  for competitive rates or   Holiday Swap  for unique homes worldwide. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and align your preferences with nearby activities such as surfing, snorkeling, or cultural exploration.

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Brunei Travel Guide

Brunei Darussalam is a tiny, oil rich Muslim country on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, and its capital city (Bandar Seri Begawan) only has a population of about 100,000 people. This entire country is mostly overlooked by tourists, but there are dozens of big, fancy mosques here that are definitely worth checking out.

The two main mosques in Brunei are  Omar Ali Saifuddien and Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah . These are real works of art, with huge golden domes and 60 meter tall minarets. Even if you're not a big architecture buff, it's easy to admire the intricate showy designs, especially when you throw in some palm trees and blue skies in the background (this is Southeast Asia, after all).

Read through this complete Brunei travel guide for more info on what to expect!

Quick Facts

Malay; 'Thank you' is 'terima kasih'

Bruneian Dollar (BND)

Bandar Seri Begawan

VOA or visa free access for 60+ countries

Tropical; hot & humid year round. Dry season is Feb - April

Power Plugs

The only international airport in Brunei is in Bandar Seri Begawan (code: BWN), which has direct flights from other Southeast Asian cities like Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Singapore. You can shop for flights to Brunei on Skyscanner.

Brunei is one of the safest countries in the world, with an extremely low violent crime rate of 0.5 per 100k inhabitants (92% lower than the global average). I've walked around the capital city at night and never felt unsafe. Terrorism is not an issue in Brunei at all, and attitudes toward foreigners seem welcoming.

The climate of Brunei is tropical, so there's no bad time to visit. It's hot and humid year round, but there is a dry season lasting from February to April.

Brunei is a surprisingly budget friendly travel destination, although it's not as cheap as other parts of SE Asia. Hostels are available from $25 Bruneian dollars ($18 USD) and private hotels from $40 BND . Meals are not too expensive, costing about $7 to $15 BND depending on location.

Transportation in Brunei is generally by car rental or taxi. The only transportation app is  Dart , which works similar to Uber.

Where To Stay

Some top hotel picks in Bandar Seri Begawan

Rimbun Suites

Al afiah hotel, radisson hotel.

This Brunei travel guide contains affiliate links. Whenever you buy something through one of these, I may get a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

As an affiliate, I only recommend products and services that I feel are high quality and helpful to my readers.

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The 18 Unforgettable Things to Do in Brunei: Discover the Hidden Treasures:

Welcome to an extraordinary adventure in Brunei. Prepare to uncover the hidden treasures of this captivating destination as we present to you things to do in Brunei . From majestic mosques to lush rainforests and cultural experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your heart, Brunei offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler.

Here you will find plenty of free and affordable things to do in Brunei . You can stroll through Kampong Ayer, a traditional water village. You can visit the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the most stunning mosques in Brunei. Or you can go on a jungle hike in Ulu Temburong National Park, where you can see proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and other wildlife.

You will undoubtedly find a lot of fun things to do and see in Brunei. So, here are the 18 best things to do in Brunei to make the most of your time and less of your budget. 

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

The 16 Best Things to Do in Brunei on your first trip.

1. visit the water village (kampong ayer).

The first place to visit in Brunei is Water village or locally known as Kampong Ayer .  Kampong Ayer, recognised as “Venice of the East” is situated at Brunei’s center, Bandar Seri Begawan. This renowned traditional village offers a unique experience.

You will be exploring the nearby mangrove forests to catch glimpses of Brunei’s fascinating riverside animals, including monkeys and crocodiles. Here you can take a walk to the Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery and explore it. Or you can take a boat ride to the Gallery. To enjoy the vacation to the fullest consider visiting here when you are in Brunei.

How to get Kampong Ayer: The best way to get to Kampong Ayer is by taking a water taxi from Bandar Seri Begawan. Water taxis are available at the jetty near the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex. The ride to Kampong Ayer takes about 5-10 minutes and offers a scenic view of the water village.

2. Explore the Scenic Brunei River

The second on the list of things to do in Brunei is exploring Brunei River . Here, you can join in the river cruise activity. The tours are usually held for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll be enchanted by the lush mangrove forests and know the history of Brunei’s water village.

Along the way, you will explore intriguing museums that will captivate your imagination. And guess what? You can get meals and coffee, tea, or snacks during the tour. This tour promises an unforgettable time, so hop on board for some Brunei River scenarios! 

3. Enjoy with Your Friends at Ulu Temburong National Park

Ulu Temburong National Park is the nation’s first protected park. It is recognized as “ Green Jewel “, situated amidst the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve, it boasts a pristine jungle. The Temburong and Belalong Rivers grace the park, adding to its charm. It is best to get a tour package with your friends or family. By doing that, you can enjoy a thrilling day tour with boat rides.

The most famous reason to visit this park is that there are about 400 types of butterflies. You will encounter here a diverse species, including hornbills. Must include this mesmerizing park on your excursion list. 

How to get to there: To get to Ulu Temburong National Park, you will need to take a boat from Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. The boat ride takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Once you arrive at the park, you can explore the rainforest and enjoy activities such as canopy walks and river cruises.

4. Visit Beautiful Mosques of Brunei

The mosques in Brunei are symbols of the nation’s rich Islamic history. You can visit some of Brunei’s most stunning mosques mentioned here:

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is the utmost renowned mosque in Brunei and is a must-see for any visitor. It is known for its beautiful white domes and minarets, and its reflection in the serene Kampong Ayer Lake. It is a symbol of Islamic belief in Brunei.

Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is an architectural marvel influenced by the Ottoman Empire style. It boasts 29 golden domes, an elegant interior with Italian marble, and regal Turkish-inspired minarets. Those 29 domes represent the nation’s 29 th sultan. Don’t miss its stunning evening lighting! If you are interested in Islamic architecture or just want to experience the beauty of Brunei’s Islamic culture, you must visit this mosque.

Ash Shaliheen Mosque , influenced by Moroccan Andalusian style, features superb zellige mosaics and prominent blue domes. Its interior features a folding roof and imports Italian marble. Designed by renowned architect Abdel-Wahed El-Wakil, it’s located near Bandar Seri Begawan’s city center.

The Brunei International Airport Mosque is a small but beautiful mosque located in the Brunei International Airport. The mosque was designed in a conventional Islamic form and features two towers and a big blue dome. It is a popular spot for tourists to visit, as it is the first mosque that you will see upon arrival in Brunei.

The Al-Muhtadee Billah Mosque is located in Bandar Seri Begawan. It was named after the royal Prince, Al-Muhtadee Billah. The mosque is a divine example of modern Islamic architecture, with a remarkable gold dome and four slender minarets. The mosque is constructed on the river. The Al-Muhtadee Billah Mosque is a beautiful and significant mosque and is a must-see for you while you are visiting Brunei.

Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam Mosque , located in Jerudong, mesmerizes with its green-themed architecture, adorned with various shades from ground to dome. The prayer hall’s distinct lime-green ceiling adds to its uniqueness. While less sophisticated, it remains a beautiful and holds significant allure.

You are free to explore all these magnificent mosques in your Brunei trip. While visiting these mosques, you will get to know about the Islamic culture of the country and will see various kind of interior in every mosque.

5. Hiking through the jungle of Selirong Island

The Selirong Island is a great way to explore the unique ecosystem of Brunei. You can start exploring this island with a boat ride through the mangroves, there you will get to see a range of plants and animals. You will have the chance to go on a short hike through the mangroves. The Selirong Island hiking tour is a great way to encounter the natural beauty and culture of Brunei. It is a fun experience that is suitable for all ages.

How to Get to Selirong Island: To get to Selirong Island, you can take a boat from Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city of Brunei. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes and will take you to the island where you can explore the mangrove forest and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

6. Explore Kuala Belait

Kuala Belait , Brunei’s second-largest metropolitan center. Here you can find some delicious food, a lot of shopping malls, and accommodations, providing various budgets. You can explore the Tudung Saji market for local produce and cuisine, visit the Belait Museum for insights into the region’s unique culture, and chill out at Silver Jubilee Park on Belait Beach. Don’t miss a serene longboat water taxi ride along the Belait River, where you might even spot a crocodile!

7. Visit Some Beautiful Parks in Brunei

Tasek Lama Recreational Park , located in Bandar Seri Begawan’s city center, offers an amazing blend of undamaged nature and urban ambiances. A 10-minute walk from the Royal Regalia Museum, the park feels like an isolated woodland, with the highlight presence of Tasek Lama Waterfall.

Kota Batu Archaeological Park , situated in the eastern part of Bandar Seri Begawan, displays the rich historical significance of Brunei’s prior capital. Serving as the foundation of the Bruneian Empire, this site witnessed the establishment of the first mosque and a grand stone fort. Though much has faded with time, you can still access the leftovers of the stone fort’s foundation, engaging yourself in the origins of Brunei’s renowned past.

Jerudong Park proudly claims to be Southeast Asia’s top amusement park. It stands as the region’s largest amusement park, drawing visitors like Malaysian , Indonesian, and the Philippines . The entry is free here, but you will have to purchase tickets for individual rides. The park’s history has legendary performances by icons like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, adding to its charm as a must-visit attraction in Brunei.

Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park surrounds the country’s largest lake and forest, it gives a serene and calm vibe for everyone. As the only ASEAN Heritage Park , it holds historical and natural significance. You can include this historical park on your visit list.

Silver Jubilee Park i n Kuala Belait boasts scenic views of the South China Sea and the district’s stunning beaches. You can enjoy the sunrise, sunset here. And there is a play area for children.

You must make a daytrip to all these parks for the best experience in Brunei .

8. Sunset View from Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas

Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas is a big and new park in Brunei filled with lots of flowers, trees, and water. It was opened on October 22, 2017, by the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah. It’s next to the beautiful Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the floating village of Kampong Ayer.

It’s a great place where you can enjoy the sunset. This is the main reason people often come here in evening. You will see their tulips, baobab plants, a playground, and a water fountain. It’s also got a walkway that goes along the river, so you can also take a stroll and enjoy the views of the Kampong Ayer water village. You can walk, bike, or boat around the park, or just sit in ease and enjoy the environment.

9. Learn History and Heritage at the Museums of Brunei

Royal regalia museum.

The Royal Regalia Museum is a historical and educational place where you will find a range of royal artifacts. A stroll through the Royal Regalia Museum in Brunei is like stepping into a past era. You’ll find golden chariots, jewel-encrusted robes, and weapons from centuries ago. The museum’s collection of crown jewels, royal gowns, and gifts from chiefs of state and influential administrators is a testament to the Sultanate’s rich history and culture.

One of the museum’s most impressive exhibits is the Golden Chariot, which was used to carry the Sultan during his Silver Jubilee celebration. The chariot is made of pure gold and is decorated with intricate carvings. The Royal Regalia Museum is open from 9am to 5pm. It’s a must-visit during your Brunei vacation.

Malay Technology Museum  

The Malay Technology Museum is a great place to learn about how the Bruneian people used to live in the past. The museum is situated in Kota batu. You’ll see many kinds of tools they used for farming, fishing, and metalworking. There are even some traditional weapons on display.

You will be discovering some galleries, each of which focuses on a different aspect of Brunei technology. It also showcases tools and equipment such as nets, traps, and boats. This museum is recommended for you while your visit in Brunei.

Brunei Museum  

Brunei museum is situated in Kota batu, Bander Seri Begawan. It is nation’s biggest museum. If you visit the Brunei Museum , you can expect to learn about the history and culture of Brunei. You will also see a wide variety of artifacts, including some that are very rare and valuable. Here you can see those valuable arts in front of you, but sad thing is photography is not allowed in museums. The museum is a great place to learn about Brunei’s rich heritage and to see some of the country’s most important cultural treasures.

Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum  

Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum, where you will see the incredible history of Brunei. This museum is situated at Kota Batu . In the museum you will step into the three galleries one by one.

The first one, ‘the Brunei Shipwreck,’ proudly showcases a remarkable selection of artifacts retrieved from a shipwreck site. You will be watching some precious ruins like foreign ceramics from the 15th and 16th centuries there. This gallery stands as the museum’s main attraction and a lasting testament to Brunei’s marine past.

The second gallery, ‘Trading Centre’. Here you will witness the alive history of Kota Batu. At this point, you will see models of foreign ships that once used for trade with Brunei, along with selected local cultural artifacts. The third gallery serves as a flexible space for temporary exhibitions. It shows the Quanzhou Maritime Museum’s fascinating Maritime Silk Road exhibition. If you are very curious about history, you will definitely have fun in this museum.

Belait Museum

Belait Museum is a cultural heritage in Brunei’s picturesque and largest district Belait. Here you will be exploring five interesting galleries. The first showcases the cultural heritage, the second one indicates the progress of Belait district, next gallery features the history of the petroleum Industry, the fourth one showcases the natural heritage, and the last one organizes exciting temporary exhibitions in the museum.

You will get to see all this gallery and know the history of this district here. Isn’t it exciting? You will uncover the unique traditions of the Belait and Tutong people. In this museum, you will be experiencing the rich tapestry of history and nature, reveling Brunei’s past and present.

10. Trekking in Teraja Waterfall

Teraja Waterfall graces Brunei’s Belait District with its pristine beauty. It is found along the Teraja River’s highest point in Mukim Labi. After reaching the river, a captivating trail leads to the mesmerizing waterfall and the breathtaking Teraja Hill’s summit. You can do group trekking here but with safety measures. It ensures a thrilling experience amidst the remote splendor of Teraja Waterfall. This is one of the best things to do in Brunei.

Address: 7CM9+9RJ, Teraja, Brunei

Entrance: 24 Hours

11. Boating in the Belait River

Boarding on a boat ride is a must for every traveler in Brunei. You will get a glimpse into the captivating Iban traditions from neighboring Sarawak, Malaysia. Local tribes use this Belait river for centuries. Remarkably, it is Brunei’s longest river. You can experience some trilling boating adventure here.

There are some special longboats for boating. Longboats provide swift transportation to inland villages due to dense jungles. You can enjoy with your friends here while boating on this beautiful river.

You can take a longboat from Kuala Belait’s jetty. Then explore the mesmerizing riverine scenery by boating and experience a memorable trip here in Brunei. You will surely have a lot of fun during this adventure.

12. Experience the Royalty at Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman , the official home of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah . This amazing palace sits on the beautiful banks of the Brunei River, surrounded by green hills. It’s known as the “Palace of the Light of Faith,” combining Malay and Arabic names. This place is massive, holding the title of the world’s largest palace.

Talking about grandeur! Inside, there are rooms fixed for royal shindigs. There is even a fancy throne chamber! Though it is not usually open to the public every day, it welcomes visitors during special celebration like Eid-ul-fitr. This is a lifetime experience which you can not wish to miss.

13. Savour the Food of Brunei

Calling all foodies! If you find yourself in Southeast Asia, you’ve got to try the delicious snack, pulut panggang ! It’s a delightful combo of steamed sticky rice and hot sambal filling, all wrapped up in banana leaves and grilled to perfection. Mei Fang Cafe and Puteh Restaurant in Pekan Tutong , Brunei, have become famous for their mouthwatering varieties of this delicacy.

But watch out, they’re so popular that they might sell out before noon! And don’t miss out on Kelupis too – a similar treat but steamed and wrapped in Nyirik leaves. Grab these treats at hawker stalls or night markets and gulp them warm for the ultimate mouthwatering experience!

Nasi Katok – a legendary, tasty treat! This Bruneian delight has become the nation’s favorite fast food, always reasonably priced and easy to find. It is packed with rice, fried chicken, and the flavorful sambal for just BND1!

Ambuyat , Brunei’s national dish, it is served sticky with a sour and spiced dip called cacah. A V-shaped bamboo stick called candas is used to eat the ambuyat. When in central Bandar Seri Begawan , prepare for a street food feast! Food stalls offer delectable satay , grilled fish, and mouthwatering desserts.

For a true food adventure, head to Gadong Night Market , where you can find a unique treat – ayam tungking, satay and many other testy foods! Surprisingly, they’re a big hit! You can also savor delicious foods in Tamu Tutong market .

You can teste Brunei’s delicious tropical fruits at Gadong Night Market. Don’t skip the famous “King of Fruits” – durian, and other favorites like tarap, rambutan, kembayau, bambangan, langsat, and kundong. You should try these unique and nutritious fruits of Brunei while your trip.

14. Visit Teng Yun Temple

In downtown Bandar Seri Begawan, you’ll find the Teng Yun Temple , the ancient Chinese temple in Brunei. People from the Chinese community, about 10% of the population, visit this special place. During Lunar New Year, there are exciting lion dances that you should watch for a lifetime experience.  

It stands out with its red walls and green roof amid tall buildings. Inside, you’ll see beautiful hand-painted tiling with Chinese stories and smell the fragrance of burning prayer sticks. You should not miss this colorful and cultural experience!

15. Billionth Barrel Monument

Billionth Barrel Monument in Seria, Brunei is built in 1991 to celebrate an epic achievement, the production of one billion barrels of oil from the Seria onshore oil field. Honored by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah himself, the monument stands tall with five pipes forming an arch, adorned with a golden coat of arms.

Each pipe symbolizes the Five Pillars of Islam, reflecting the nation’s faith. This site holds a special place in Brunei’s heart. The intricate floor tiles, inspired by Islamic designs, add charm to the monument’s appeal. Designed by a talented local architect, it’s a must-see landmark showcasing Brunei’s achievements in the oil industry. Do not skip this landmark while roaming in Brunei.

16. Stand-Up Paddle Board

If you’re looking for an exciting activity in Brunei, stand-up paddle boarding is the solution. It will be a fantastic experience. Firstly, Head to Ikas Lake , near Bandar Seri Begawan , where SUP Surfari operates. Then you will be starting the exciting paddle boarding tour with your buddies. You will get to relax in nature and have a wonderful time exploring the tranquil waters on this stand-up paddle boarding adventure!

In conclusion , Brunei is a fascinating destination that offers a wonderful mix of cultural richness and natural beauty. From the picturesque Kampong Ayer water village to the majestic mosques and lush Ulu Temburong National Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You will get to know Brunei’s history and heritage at the Royal Regalia Museum and Malay Technology Museum and try the mouthwatering local cuisine.

You can witness the magnificence of Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s biggest palace, and experience the tranquility of Teng Yun Temple. Whether you’re exploring the scenic Brunei River or marveling at the Billionth Barrel Monument, this enchanting country promises a remarkable journey filled with wonder and charisma.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which are the best attractions in brunei.

Kampong Ayer, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Royal Regalia Museum, Teraja waterfall, Istana Nurul Iman – these are the top attraction in Brunei you should not miss.

What stands out about Brunei in Southeast Asia?

Brunei stands out for its beautiful mosques and Islamic architecture, with attractions like the Omar Ali Saifuddien and Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosques.

Are there any outdoor activities available in Brunei?

Yes, there are a range of outdoor activities available in Brunei. You can do hiking, jungle trekking, paddle boarding, snorkeling at Muara beach near Pelong Rocks etc.

Which are the most affordable hotels in Brunei?

Wafa Hotel and Apartment, Parkview Hotel, Higher Hotel and The Lanes Hotel – these are some most affordable options you can choose to stay.

Which is the best time to visit Brunei?

The best time to visit Brunei is from the month of January to May.

Related Posts

Malaysia to brunei road trip itinerary & travel guide, the 9 beautiful destinations for backpacking southeast asia.

Is Brunei Museum open again? I heard it’s been closed since 2014?

Brunei Museum is still close (Temporary) as they were schedule to open since 2022 after major renovations.

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Ultimate Brunei Itinerary – How to Fully Cover the Country in 3 Days

June 25, 2019 by Bino 13 Comments

Nestled in the northern part of the island of Borneo, the oil-rich state of Brunei is one of the smallest countries in Asia and also one of the least visited. If you fancy history and amazing architecture (particularly Islamic) with a bit of the tropical vibe thrown in, then Brunei is for you. As a developed country and owing to its small size, it is relatively easy to get around and you can conveniently see the sights of Brunei within a few days. Personally, I found three nights to be enough to see Brunei. Here is my suggested itinerary for a trip to the country:

omar ali saifuddien mosque in bandar seri begawan

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Bandar Seri Begawan / Kampong Ayer

Stroll the grounds of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and marvel at its ornate marbled exterior. Do this as your first stop in the morning to “whet your appetite” on Brunei. Check out the main dome which is covered in pure gold. Admission is free and you can enter the mosque outside of prayer hours.

From here, it is just a short walk from the Yayasan Complex from where you can buy souvenirs or stock up on groceries if you are ever in need of any. The area is also filled with restaurants and you can stop here for lunch. If you’re not feeling peckish, the area immediately east of Yayasan Complex contains the Teng Yun temple (the oldest in Brunei) and has a number of traditional family-run stores – an interesting place for a short stroll.

the jame asr bolkiah mosque

It’s a short walk to the Royal Regalia Museum which features a number of objects including gifts the Sultan of Brunei has received over the years as well as equipment used during his coronation and silver jubilee (check out the royal chariot in the entrance hall). Opening hours: Sun-Thu from 9am to 5pm, Fri 9-11.30am & 2.30-5pm, Sat 9.45am-5pm, last entry 4.30pm.

Head over to the Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque . Built in 1994, this is Brunei’s largest mosque and it boasts of 29 golden domes. Surrounded by a landscaped garden as well as fountains, it’s also a noteworthy sight in the evening when the mosque is floodlit. From the city center, you can take Bus #1 and stop right by the gate. Do note the opening hours: 8am-noon, 2-3pm & 5-6pm Mon-Wed & Sat, 10.45am-noon, 2-3pm & 5-6pm Sun, closed Thu & Fri

Take the #1 bus again and head back to Bandar Seri Begawan in the late afternoon. By this time, it won’t be too hot to visit Kampong Ayer (the water village). Point to point rides around Kampong Ayer cost $1 while a one hour boat ride around Kampong Ayer should not cost more than $10. So what will you get to see within that hour? You’ll be shown places such as the floating fire station, floating mosque, floating school and plenty of houses built on stilts. You can also ask the boat man to take you for a glimpse of the Istana Nurul Iman, the residence of the sultan. If you have time, you should also check out the Kampong Ayer Museum which details the history of the area. An overnight stay in one of the houses on stilts is also possible if you wish to spend more time there.

long boats at the ulu temburong national park

Day 2 – Ulu Temburong National Park

Morning & Afternoon

Head out to Ulu Temburong National Park – a trip which will take you the entire day. The journey is an adventure in itself where from downtown BSB, you’ll take a ride through mangroves on a speedboat to the lodge before being transferred to a longboat. Exploration of the national park generally includes various attractions such as the waterfall with “fish spa” and an exhilarating climb up a rickety set of stairs to the canopy walk for a bird’s eye view of the rainforest.

translucent waters at the national park

Most tours start at around 7:30AM from the pier in Bandar Seri Begawan and end at around 5pm.

enormous pool area of the empire hotel, brunei

Tip: Singapore Dollars can also be used in Brunei at a rate of 1:1.

Day 3 – Gadong & Chilling at Empire Hotel

Chill at one of the most resplendent hotels in the world, the Empire Hotel & Country Club – where you should give yourself a treat and stay at least a night. A self-styled 6-star property, you can either have a relaxing time inside the luxurious room or chill outdoors. There’s a decent beach with a lagoon that is good for swimming and kayaking. For sports enthusiasts, the property has actually won a couple of awards for golfing.

the beach of the empire hotel

Afternoon & Evening

For some last minute shopping, go to The Mall at Gadong – Brunei’s largest shopping center. It’s a mostly modern affair where you can find high street brands. From Empire Hotel, #57/58 bus will take you there.

A short walk from the shopping center is Gadong Night Market . You will find a lot of interesting eats in the outdoor space from 4PM onwards. Make sure to try the pulut panggang (rice stuffed with meat and wrapped in banana leaves), local kueh (small cakes) as well as the grilled seafood.

If you have extra time in Brunei…

Not a must-see but if you find yourself with extra time in Brunei, consider making the 1.5 hour trip to Seria in western Brunei to gain a better understanding of the industry that’s powering the economy of the nation. There is a monument dedicated to the billionth barrel of oil extracted in Brunei and it’s erected in the site of the first oil well discovered in the country.

Travel Tips for Brunei

• Singapore Dollars can also be used in Brunei and the exchange rate is 1:1. Likewise, if you have leftover Brunei Dollars, you can easily use them in Singapore.
• As a rule of thumb, taxi fares from the airport to downtown Bandar Seri Begawan should cost no more than B$25. If you’re heading to Empire Hotel from the airport, the fare should be around B$15.
• Brunei is under Sharia law and all restaurants and eateries are closed from 12 noon to 2pm every Friday. To save yourself from getting hungry during lunch time, you may take an early lunch or buy a takeaway meal.
• I typically shop around when buying travel insurance and using this travel insurance aggregator allows me to compare prices and benefits in one glance. 

Where to stay in Brunei

I have stayed in a number of lodging options in Brunei. To experience the best that the country has the offer, do book at least one night at Empire Hotel and Country Club . The property is an attraction in itself. For something closer to the city, the recently renovated Radisson Hotel Brunei is an excellent choice. You can also compare for the best prices for Brunei hotels HERE .

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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August 25, 2017 at 12:36 am

I’m going to Brunei tomorrow. Thank you so much for this useful post!

August 29, 2017 at 10:25 pm

No problem! Hope it was helpful!

January 8, 2018 at 8:22 pm

Your post is very useful, thanks!

I’m going there this August, is the weather good for travelling that time? How’s the actual weather?

January 9, 2018 at 3:48 pm

It’s ok at that time but there’s a tendency to have haze — it’s a seasonal thing and dependent on wind patterns.

January 10, 2018 at 12:42 pm

Thanks for that info, will take note of that.

January 11, 2018 at 9:32 am

One more question, is it possible to go inside the Empire Hotel and Country Club and use the amenities (even with a fee, it’s ok) or at least stroll along the beachfront even if you did not check in on the hotel?

February 1, 2018 at 8:57 pm

Very informative & useful post! ? thanks!

February 28, 2018 at 11:30 pm

This is one of the most detailed and practical itineraries for Brunei which I’ve read in a while, Bino! Now I feel ready to cross Brunei off my bucket list and thus, your post will come in handy. When would it be the best time fo the year to explore Brunei?

March 10, 2018 at 10:19 am

Hi, will you suggest car rent at brunei if we have 4 adult & 2 small kids? For 4 days 3 nights (perhaps 2 nights at city & 1 night at empire hotel. TQ

March 10, 2018 at 11:12 pm

Yes, car rental sounds sensible for a family. It’ll be hard to bring the kids along if you commute.

June 18, 2018 at 4:16 am

HI Bino Great information – thank you. Would suggest taking an organised tour or could we do this on our own using public transportation or taxis?

July 27, 2021 at 2:29 am

Does tourists can visit the palace during Id El Fiter or only local citizens.

March 6, 2023 at 11:51 am

Hi which tour you booked to go to ulu temburong?

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Brunei travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 5, 2024 06:24 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, brunei - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Brunei

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Violent crime is rare.

Petty crime, such as break-ins and theft, occurs. Crime increases in July when school is out of session, and during the December holidays.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Do not leave possessions in unattended vehicles.

If you intend on trekking in the rainforest:

• use recognized and well-known guides
• stay on the footpaths
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your trekking area, including when you expect to return from your activity
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out and do not venture off marked paths

Brunei Tourism – Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are good throughout the country.

Speeding, running red lights and distracted driving are common traffic infractions. In case of an accident, remain at the scene and do not move your vehicle until police arrive.

You can get a self-drive rental or chauffeur-driven car from major hotels and the airport. You should make arrangements for this before you arrive.

Public transportation

Buses operate between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. but are infrequent.

Public bus route – Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications

You can usually get a metered taxi at hotels, shopping centres and the airport. Your hotel can arrange for a taxi or provide a taxi driver’s cell-phone number. Some drivers will negotiate a fare.

Water taxis are the most common form of transport to and from Kampong Ayer. Fares are negotiable.

Brunei Metered Taxi - Land Transport Department of Brunei

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Bruneian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Brunei.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required for stays of more than 14 days Business visa: required for stays of more than 14 days Student visa: required

If you need a visa, you must have at least 6 blank pages in your passport.

Visa information – Ministry of Foreign Affairs Brunei

E-Arrival Card

You must register and get approved for an E-Arrival Card before arriving in Brunei by air, land or sea. If you arrived in Brunei before February 9, 2023, and didn't get an E-Arrival Card, you will need to get one before leaving Brunei. The E-Arrival Card is separate from any visa requirements.

You are exempt from this requirement if you are transiting through Brunei.

• Register for the E-Arrival Card online – Brunei’s Immigration and National Registration System portal
• Guidelines for E-Arrival Card - Government of Brunei

Health screening

You will not be allowed entry into Brunei if you have HIV/AIDS or any other communicable disease. You will be asked to complete a health declaration form upon entry.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low.    Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are good, but medical evacuation to Singapore may be necessary for serious medical problems.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Death is the mandatory penalty for many narcotics offences, including trafficking controlled drugs, even in very small amounts.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

You can't purchase alcohol in Brunei and the import of alcohol is strictly regulated.

• Narcotics Control Bureau  - Government of Brunei
• Import regulations - Ministry of Finance of Brunei

Illegal activities

The following activities are illegal and convicted offenders can face severe penalties:

• possession of pornographic material
• possession of firearms, weapons and related accessories
• photography of government and military establishments or equipment
• persuading or inciting a Muslim to neglect their religious duties
• promoting any religion other than Islam

Overstaying a visa

Immigration regulations are strict. Foreign workers who overstay their visas face harsh penalties, including jail sentences and caning. If you’re working in Brunei, closely monitor your immigration status and visa expiration dates.

Extramarital relations

Extramarital relations and public displays of affection between a Muslim and non-Muslim may be considered a crime in Brunei.

Sharia penal code

The Sharia penal code applies regardless of a person’s religion or nationality. Penalties for certain offences can be severe, and can include physical punishment and the death penalty. Penalties may be applied for certain offences that would not be considered criminal in Canada. Brunei’s existing civil penal code and civil courts will continue to function in parallel with the Sharia penal code and Sharia Court.

Sharia penal code - Attorney General’s Chambers

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Discussing royal family

Avoid any public criticism of His Majesty the Sultan or other members of the Bruneian royal family.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Bruneian law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face severe penalties, including the death penalty.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Brunei.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Brunei.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Brunei, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Brunei.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Brunei by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Brunei to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Traffic drives on the left.

Foreigners holding a driving permit issued by a country that is party to the Geneva Convention may convert that permit to a Brunei permit that can be used for up to one year.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Land Transport Department - Government of Brunei

The currency in Brunei is the Brunei dollar.

Earthquakes

Brunei is located in an active seismic zone. However, earthquakes and volcano activity are not common.

Rainy/monsoon seasons

The rainy (or monsoon) seasons occur from September to January and from May to July. During these periods, even small storms can quickly develop into major ones. These severe rainstorms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. They may also cause flooding and landslides.

If you decide to travel to Brunei during the monsoon seasons:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Local weather updates - Brunei Meteorological Department

Unrestricted burning in neighbouring Indonesia periodically causes atmospheric pollution to rise to unhealthy levels. Pollutant standard index levels (PSI reading) change quickly and you should closely monitor them by consulting local news and weather reports.

PSI readings - Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation of Brunei

Local services

• police: 993
• medical assistance: 991
• firefighters: 995
• search & rescue: 998

Consular assistance

The High Commission of Canada in Brunei is currently offering consular services by appointment only at the British High Commission in Brunei. If you need consular assistance, contact us by email to make an appointment, or book an appointment online .

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Brunei and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Complete list of things to do in Brunei, best attractions and places to visit

This post was first written in Sep 2015 and last updated in June 2020. 

When considering a Southeast Asia trip you will be forgiven for not thinking of the possibility of traveling to Brunei. The tiniest country in the region (yet bigger than Nauru and Tuvalu ), it is also one of the least visited . But despite its small size, there are enough things to do in Brunei to keep you busy for at least two to three days, just like I did.

If you are wondering what to do in Brunei, you have come to the right place. Having planned the trip ahead and done quite a bit of research on all the Brunei attractions, I put together a packed itinerary for three days of travel to Brunei with all the best highlights.

I went out to the tropical rainforests jungle (the best preserved in Asia), up the canopy top, down rivers, on firefly boat trips and even to the Royal Palace to meet the Royal Family!

If you want to know how long you should make your Brunei travel itinerary, I would recommend budgeting for three days . If you only have a weekend, you can still cover most of the best things to do in Brunei by squeezing them in and organising your schedule ahead of time. Planning can do wonders here.

Introduction to Brunei

Brunei, known in Malay as Brunei Darussalam or “The Abode of Peace” , is a small country entirely surrounded by Malaysia and the South China Sea and made of two separate areas. It is the only country fully located on the island of Borneo, unlike the Indonesian or Malaysian areas like Kalimantan or Sarawak and Sabah (where Mount Kinabalu is) respectively.

The majority of the population lives in the Eastern part of the country, where the international airport and the capital of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan, are located. The Western part of the country only accounts for 10% of the 400,000 Bruneians and is entirely made of lush and pristine jungle, the best preserved in Asia and not connected to the Eastern part but surrounded entirely by water or Malaysia.

The most famous park in this part of Brunei is the beautiful Ulu Temburong , home to several endemic species including the very shy Proboscis monkey , which you can also find in nearby Sabah State and Kota Kinabalu Park  in East Malaysia. A visit to the park is one of the main reasons to travel to Brunei and worthwhile even if you don’t do anything else.

While you may have never heard of Brunei before, the country is most famous for the eccentricities and excesses of the Sultan , once the richest man in the world, and one of the last remaining absolute Monarchs . Sultan Bolkiah, whose full name is Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien is estimated to have accumulated a fortune amounting to $20 billion thanks to vast natural reserves of oil and gas. He also regularly makes the headlines for his indulgences in custom-built high-performance cars and lavish homes.

The Royal Palace, Istana Nurul, is the world’s largest palace and family residence . Open to the public only during the three days after the end of Ramadan, the Palace is said to have almost 1,800 rooms and over 200 bathrooms . There is a garage for one hundred luxury cars, the Sultan’s favorite selection over the seven thousand car collection he is believed to have amassed.

Despite being known for his wealth and extravagances, the Sultan introduced Sharia Law , the most conservative form of Islamic Law, in 2014, to much international dismay. Rolled out in phases, once full Sharia Law is implemented, punishments as primitive as flogging, stoning to death and cutting of limbs will be imposed in Brunei.

In 2019, Brunei made headlines throughout the world when introducing a ban on homosexuality. This follows stringent and primitive rules that are actually carried out by 70 UN member states where the penalty varies from 10 years in prison to life. Although the Sultan has declared that they won’t take action on the law. 

As a visitor, you can roam freely and safely, for the Sultan’s generosity with his people and the country’s limited freedom of expression makes this a peaceful country. Here is my article on the best facts about Brunei if you want to learn more before you go.

I visited Brunei with a friend at the end of Ramadan and during the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri and had the chance to enjoy some of the best things to do in Brunei. Check the list below and the map to locate where they all are.

Things to do in Brunei: Attractions and places to see

Brunei appears to most as a place devoid of any interesting sights. However, this is a country where you should find beauty in the smallest things and where experiencing the place, rather than ticking things off a checklist, is what matters most.

There is no party or dancing in the country, for it is a strict follower of Islam and alcohol is forbidden . As a result, when the sun sets, there is little more to do in Brunei than go on boat tours to spot fireflies or sit at a cafe with a slice of cake.

Educate yourself at the Museum of Brunei

Update : The Museum of Brunei is closed for major reconstruction and is said only to open again at the end of 2020, but rumor has it that it is closed indefinitely. So make contact before visiting to see if they’re open. Read below to find out more about what you can find here.

The Museum of Brunei is a great source of information about the culture and history of the country , including the recent developments in the oil and gas industry. The Sultanate of Brunei was a strong Empire up until the 15th century when wars and disputes caused its decline.

For most of the time after that, the country remained under various forms of protection from the UK until achieving full independence in 1984. While a visit to a museum about a country’s history may not be everyone’s definition of the best places to see, I do believe it makes sense to start your visit to Brunei here so that you have a good understanding of this tiny country. Some of Brunei’s attractions you will explore later will make much more sense after you are able to link them to the country’s interesting and fascinating past.

More information about the Museum can be found here .

Get wowed at the Royal Regalia Museum

Yes, this is another museum and it could be as interesting or mind-numbing as the Museum of Brunei, but it may give you ideas for that Aladdin-like gift that you are thinking of buying a friend who has it all. After all, I cannot think of a better place to dream of 1001 Nights than Brunei where the Sultan wears suits made of gold and precious stones .

Consider this more than just a museum and walk in to be amazed , I promise this is one of the most interesting places to see in Brunei.

The Museum is home to the Sultan’s life including all the objects that are part of his reign. Replicas of his throne, the gifts that Royals and Heads of State have given the Sultan, crowns and gowns. Expect gold and jewels galore, like you have never seen before. The entire place is reminiscent of the Armory, in Moscow’s Kremlin, where the Tsar’s riches are displayed.

The museum is located in the downtown part of Bandar Seri Begawan near the famous mosque, you can’t miss it and its giant domed ceiling. Entrance to the museum is free and you will have to leave your belonging and cameras at the entrance.

Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum

If you’re into nautical themed museums, then this is the place you should dock yourself. After finding a shipwreck in 1997 an expedition was formed to search for all its artefacts. What they found in the late 15th and early 16C ship was over 13,000 different objects were found, mostly ceramic or glass items.

There is a short, yet interesting movie about the ship and the process of retrieving the artefacts. Downstairs is the replica of the ship and upstairs some more information on Brunei’s exports such as camphor, spices, textiles. Similar to the Royal Regalia Museum, entrance is free, but you are not allowed to take pictures inside. It is suggested that you read up a bit more on early Asian trade before visiting to really understand the importance of this find as the information is lacking a bit. 

One more thing you should note about a visit to this museum is that it is roughly a 1.5-2km walk from the nearest bus stop, so it’s best to get here by taxi, which can be organised through your hotel. It’s best to hire one for half a day if you’re visiting all the sites in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Marvel at the Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien

You cannot visit Brunei and not see its most famous tourist attraction : Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien. It is also an impossible-to-miss landmark in Brunei since it sits tall and surrounded by a lake right in the center of the capital city and it is the tallest building at 52m high.

The Mosque, built in honor of the Sultan’s late father , the 28th Sultan of Brunei, in 1958 is made of solid gold and fine marble from Italy and was inspired by India’s Mughal architecture like you’ll find in Lahore , Dhaka , or Chennai  and of course the Taj Mahal. The mosque was the first official and large mosque to be built in the capital city.

Prior to that, there used to be a much smaller wooden mosque in the same area but it was not able to hold more than 500 people, so massive prayers for marked dates were held out in the open.

The crescent lake between the mosque and the water village, Kampong Ayer, gives it a heavenly aura. Watch out for monitor lizards cooling down in the water to avoid being surprised when taking a picture.

The large and colorful barge in front of the mosque is a replica of the 16th-century Royal Barge and was built almost a decade after the mosque’s completion. The barge used to stage Al-Quran reading competitions.

Although the mosque is open to visitors and entrance is free , this is a functioning house of prayer in an active Muslim country so practice respect at all times. If you are not Muslim, you may not be allowed inside at times of prayer on special dates like Ramadan or Eid Al Fitr.

Women should expect to cover their heads, men may be turned away if wearing short sleeves, vests or shorts. There is an elevator going to the top of one of minarets for the best views of the city.

Visit Kampong Ayer and spot proboscis monkeys

One of the most interesting things to do in Brunei is renting a boat from the harbor to motor through the world’s largest water village with 30,000 people and the mangrove area around it. You should do this both at night and during the day as the experiences are different.

Kampong Ayer, the water village, is a mere few minutes from the shore on the main area and can be accessed by simply renting the boat and skipper for a few dollars (I believe we rented it for a couple of hours for $10). Negotiate with the boatman before getting on the boat.

These are not tourist boats, there are very few people who visit Brunei, but rather the same boats the locals use to get around. Some may not have a roof to protect from the sun so be sure to pick the right one or bring a hat, the sun in Brunei is brutal.

Firstly, head out to the mangrove area where you can spot proboscis monkeys . These monkeys, endemic of Borneo, are shy and will fly away if bothered or startled but, with the right pair of camera lenses or binoculars, you may be able to see their funny noses.

On your way back, ask the captain to drop you off at Kampong Ayer and wander along the suspended streets , this is one of the best things to see in Brunei. You will have to take another boat to get back but there are regular water taxi style boats from the main piers on the village.

People are friendly and you may be able to, respectfully, peek inside people’s homes and see how a village entirely above the water works.

Contrary to what you may see in more impoverished parts of Asia, Kampong Ayer is a developed and wealthy part of Brunei . Some of the newer houses are as good, if not better, than the ones on land and can go for as much as $100,000. It is fascinating to see how so many people live on stilts.

A stroll along the Kampong Ayer bridges and paths is one of the most fascinating things to do in Brunei.

What to do in Brunei at night? You will surely be wondering that on the first night you spend in the country as you will quickly realise everything is closed and this is the quietest capital in Asia. Well, I have a suggestion for you. Go chase fireflies . No, really.

While the visit to the kampong and the proboscis monkeys needs to be done during the day, you should also return to the mangroves at night. If you go there at night you will also be able to see the red eyes of crocodiles resting on the shore and the blinking light of fireflies.

Explore Ulu Temburong

As opposed to the rest of Borneo, where logging and palm oil plantations are the source of much concern from environmental agencies and the public in general, Brunei’s jungle is virgin and one of the best places to visit in Brunei.

Logging is banned , providing a unique insight into an unspoiled eco-system of overgrown vegetation and thick forestry. Birds chirp away, monkeys jump from tree ropes and eye-catching plants attract visitors to long hikes. A trip to Ulu Temburong National Park is a must do when in the country.

You will have to book with a tour company because independent visitors to the park are not allowed but this is Brunei’s best tourist attraction. Only about 1% of the park is open to the public whereas the rest remains closed off and only accessible to researchers and park personnel.

Aside from the possibility to spend some time with nature, Ulu Temburong is primarily known for the canopy walk , a suspended structure hanging high atop the jungle which you can climb up to for the best 360 degree views of thick jungles.

You have to take a boat, a van and a long-tail boat to get there from the capital. If the tide is low you may have to get out of the long tail boat and push at times. Once you arrive at Ulu Ulu the real trekking begins.

You will have to walk up 1,000 steps in hot and humid weather but the reward at the top of the hill is all worth it. Built in steel and standing high at 60 meters, the canopy walk provides an incredible view over the jungle top, if you can bear the altitude and the scary rattling of the structure as you climb up.

This is what Borneo would be everywhere else if the palm oil industry had not arrived so head out to Brunei for a glimpse of untouched, wild nature. It is similar to some places in Cambodia’s Wild East where logging and plantations have still not yet reached. 

Wreck and macro diving

Most people do not seem to pay any attention to this but Brunei is located in Borneo, where some of the best diving spots in Southeast Asia are, and other pristine islands like Manukan . So, is diving one of the best things to do in Brunei? The answer seems to be a rotund yes. Yet most people visiting Brunei seem to forget its underwater attractions. Wondering what to do in Brunei to get in the water? Diving seems like a pretty good excuse.

Now let’s be realistic, don’t go expecting diving like in neighbouring Sipadan , this is not a place to see schools of barracuda or large fish. You should also not expect fabulous beaches, the beaches in Brunei leave a lot to be desired and the sea conditions can be rough, but if you are into macro diving or want to head out for some WWII wreck sites the you should add this to your Brunei list of attractions. This is perhaps Southeast Asia’s best kept diving destination secret.

Check out Oceanic Quest for more information about diving in Brunei.

Try the very unique local ambuyat dish

This is one of the most bizarre and unique food items I have ever eaten and it is Brunei’s most famous dish. Made of a glutinous sago pudding that is eaten when the thick and elastic porridge is rolled around the fork. The point is to then dip the rather bland concoction into spicy meat with chilli sauce.

It is a bit strange at first because of its chewing gum, gooey texture that is probably not everyone’s cup of tea, but quite tasty and unique. You should definitively try it. Maybe make it a dinner outing to turn it into a great evening activity in Brunei. Ambuyat usually is served with sides of cucumber and vegetables already so don’t over order.

For an extra dose of genuine, head out to the famous  Aminah Arif   restaurants which is know to serve this. It can get quite busy in the evenings so go early.

Families come here in groups for their weekend outing, so after being presented with the menu, we simply looked around and found the dishes that looked most appetising and added them when ordering. Bruneian food is mostly similar to Malay so the rest of the dishes were familiar to someone like myself who has lived in Singapore for a long time.

Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Built in 1992  Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque  is the best expression of utter exuberance and Royal extravagance  in Brunei. It is, of course, filled with more gold, and because the Sultan is the 29th reigning Monarch in his dynasty, there are 29 golden domes, because one is not enough. At night, when it is lit, it is impossible to miss. It stands bright and tall in the surroundings.

The mosque is the largest in the country and can accommodate 5,000 worshippers . It is not located in the city center like the other large mosque, so getting there is a bit trickier and you would be better off joining a tour. The building is impressive and well worth a stop so you could try to sneak a stop on either your way from or to the airport.

Getting inside is not always possible to visitors and non-Muslims may not be able to get in during prayer times. But seeing it from the outside is great too.

Jerudong Park

Once Southeast Asia’s most expensive amusement parks , this is as kitsch as parks can get . Costing $1 Bn to build, the park was entirely funded by the Royal Family. When it opened, it became known for the various concerts performed by singers of international acclaim such as Michael Jackson or Whitney Houston. Although it originally opened without an entrance fee, it later started charging when the visitor numbers declined.

Today, several of the attractions have been closed and sold off and it is now a decrepit place that is busy on weekends with families having a picnic. The entrance is free and you pay to use the rides. Not sure they are completely safe. Could be an interesting place to see. The park only opens in the afternoon/evening as it would be too hot during the day.

Visit The Nurul Istana Royal Palace of Brunei

This is the world’s most impressive royal building and considered the largest palace in the world with over 1,800 rooms. If you are in the country at the right time of the year, you should not miss the chance of visiting as this is one of the best things to do in Brunei Darussalam.

But there is a catch. Nurul Istana is not open to the public except for the three days of Eid al Fitr at the end of the month of Ramadan so, if you can time your visit to Brunei in these days you will be amazed by the building and the incredible experience that it is to meet the Sultan or his wife. I did, as I made sure to visit Brunei during Eid and it was quite a remarkable experience.

What to expect when visiting Nurul Istana or Brunei’s Royal Palace during Eid

Nurul Istana is a huge complex and as such, it can accommodate huge amounts of people. During Eid, the Sultan and his wife will meet and greet every single person who queues up to do so .

That includes foreigners. And so my friend and I queued up in the hopes of making it on time. Queues can be really hard, and we had to wait for almost three hours to shake hands, but it was worth it as the experience was quite fascinating.

Firstly, you need to head to the Royal Palace, we took a taxi. Then, you will first enter a huge banquet hall where celebratory food is served. You can eat as much as you like, all the food is free and offered by the royal family to the visitors.

There are all sorts of foods on offer including all sorts of sweets and fruits. Eat your heart’s content and then head to the next rooms (follow the crowds or ask) to start the queue.

The queuing system is organised and peaceful. You will be moving through various halls and rooms, all incredibly decorated in gold and yellow, and some of them will host performances, music and dancers to entertain the visitors while they wait. You will not wait around in a line but rather in rows of seats.

Every few minutes, an entire row will be called to move to the next room. It is hard to tell how much longer you have to wait as, until you reach the outdoor patios and courtyards, you can’t really see the end of the line.

Eventually, you will leave the indoor areas and head outside to an interior courtyard with pillars and fountains and you will be able to tell the end of the line is near. When it is your turn, you will have to leave your cameras and belonging in an area and take your shoes off.

Women will meet the Sultan’s wife while men will meet the Sultan himself . As we were the only clearly foreign people in the line, when it was our turn, the Sultan’s wife even asked us where we were from.

At the exit, make sure to collect your gift : a signed greeting card from the Sultan for Eid and a heavy fruit cake inside a yellow metal box with the Sultan’s face on it. Great souvenir to take home!

Tamu Pasar Besar Gadong night market

I absolutely love night markets and the one in Brunei is just fabulous . This is an explosion of food and smells that fills the air. If you are visiting Brunei you just cannot miss this market. As there are not a lot of things to do in Brunei at night, this is just another great way to fill your evening, albeit don’t expect it to go until midnight.

Head there when the sun sets and wander the alleys picking food here and there to try them out. People are friendly and because you can see how the food is made this also doubles up as a great attraction in Brunei, even if you end up going elsewhere to eat. Food markets are the perfect way to get under the skin of a country and understand more about its food culture.

Best hotels in Brunei

There are not a lot of options for hotels in Brunei and given the lack of public transportation and availability of taxis, I would highly recommend staying somewhere in the central area so that you can walk to the main attractions and points of interest in Brunei. For lack of a better option, I walked to the night market and it was well over an hour’s walk.

The entire Brunei only has one four star hotel and one five star hotel and they are both very different options. Choosing where to stay in Brunei is therefore a pretty straightforward decision.

The Radisson Hotel Brunei

This is the hotel I recommend the most and where I stayed. It is a reasonably prices four star hotel right in the central part of the city. It is not fancy in any way but it is the best located hotel in Brunei. They also have a tour desk that can help organise the trip to Ulu Temburong and even taxis, although they are largely non-existent in the country.

Book your trip now on Booking.com | Agoda

The Empire Hotel

This is much the opposite of the Radisson Hotel . It is very far from the city center and located by the sea, near a golf course. This is probably the only weekend getaway for the locals and for the many oil workers and expats living in Brunei. The hotel is old world charm, with red velvet, draped curtains and indoor swimming pools. If you did not know you were in Brunei you could think you are in the English countryside.

The Empire Hotel is located in expansive grounds with plenty of green. There is even a beach to sunbathe, the only one in Brunei. You will however be located far from the city so you will need to hire drivers for the day to go explore. If you want a beach getaway with a twist in probably the least likely countries in Asia this is probably it.

Book your trip now on  Agoda

Other things to consider when planning your trip to Brunei

Brunei is a pretty unique country and so some of the things you would expect from its neighbours or other countries in Asia do not apply. It is best to pay attention to some of the travel tips to Brunei below.

There is no real public transportation

As I mentioned a few times, public transportation in Brunei is almost inexistent and there are very few taxis. As a result, I found myself having to walk incredible distances at night because there was no other way to get back. It would be wise to get the hotel to organise a cab for you who can also come back to pick you up if you are going off from the city center, like when visiting the night market. We found the locals actually stopped by to offer us a ride, but being cautious as two women traveling alone, we decided to decline. It was quite a common act of kindness.

There is no alcohol

Brunei is a dry country. That means that alcohol is forbidden and not available anywhere . You will not find onboard the planes from Royal Air Brunei and you will not see it anywhere. There is also no party and very few businesses stay open past 10pm. So there isn’t much to do at night save for the firefly mangrove tours I mentioned. This is also one of the reasons why most people will tell you that traveling to Brunei is boring or not worth it. I still found it a fascinating country, interesting and unique if indeed not an “exciting” destination per se. If you want to bring your own alcohol for your own consumption (not for selling) you can do so with a maximum of 2l per person which needs to be declared at customs.

You should dress conservatively

Sharia Law was imposed a few years ago in Brunei and as a result, most women cover their heads and locals will wear long sleeves and long trousers , despite the weather would call for shorts. You are best respecting the local customs and wearing long trousers too but, as a woman, you are not expected to cover up. Bring a scarf in case you can visit the mosques.

You can use Singapore Dollars

Although Brunei has its own currency, both Singapore dollars and Brunei dollars are accepted and your Brunei dollars will also be useful in Singapore so if you are visiting the tiny Red Dot city after or before Brunei keep your dollars and use them there, for example, enjoying one of these  100 things to do in Singapore  or staying at one of its many Luxury hotels .

How to get to Brunei

The main airport is the one in the capital Bandar Seri Begawan and is the most relevant way to get to Brunei. There are international flights into Brunei from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, the two closest cities and, via Royal Brunei Airlines, there are flights to a number of other international destinations.

Royal Brunei Airlines tends to have affordable tickets and it is a full fledged one and a decent one though.

However, another common way to arrive is by crossing the border by road from Miri where the British Army training camps are and the majority of the oil expats live.

They escape the even more remote and boring city of Miri and come to the country for the weekend looking for some more exciting things to do in Brunei.

Brunei would be a great destination to add to your off-the-beaten-track Pinterest boards

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
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• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
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Travel in Brunei: 13 must-know travel tips for Brunei Darussalam

December 18, 2017 by Karen Turner 26 Comments

I chose to visit Brunei Darussalam this year after two Bruneian friends invited me to visit Bandar Seri Begawan. I love reading blogs, but I can’t believe how  wrong  some of them were about travel in Brunei for Westerners.

Let’s set the record straight about must-knows before you travel to Brunei, what to wear in Brunei without offending folks, and what to expect when traveling in Brunei. (Thanks to B., C., and D. for showing us around Brunei.)

• 1 Don’t underestimate this small Asian sultanate
• 2 Controversial statement: Bruneians are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet while traveling
• 3 Sharia law doesn’t apply to everyone in the same way, but use your judgment
• 4 Brunei is boring if you’re trying to party in Brunei
• 5 How to dress appropriately in Brunei
• 6 What to wear in Brunei for women
• 7 What to wear in Brunei for men
• 8 Politics are better not discussed.
• 9 Public transit isn’t that commonly used.
• 10 Bruneian food y’all.
• 11 Everyone speaks English and people are super friendly
• 12 Don’t miss Ulu Temburong National Park
• 13 LGBT rights
• 14 Brunei isn’t cheap
• 15 In Bandar Seri Begawan, don’t miss the Kampong Ayer water village
• 16 When is the best time to visit Brunei?
• 17 Have you been to Brunei? What do you recommend that tourists traveling in Brunei know?

Don’t underestimate this small Asian sultanate

A lot of people only visit one or two days in Brunei, but I’d say at least four days in Brunei is perfect.  There’s more to do than people realize, so if you’re only visiting Brunei for two days, you won’t get to visit Ulu Temburong National Park.  It’s a fascinating country and not the kind to rush through.

Controversial statement: Bruneians are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet while traveling

Bruneians LOVE tourists and Brunei might be one of the friendliest places to visit in the world. Every single street, people would welcome me to Brunei before asking where I’m from.

Even as we got onto a bus going to Malaysia, we were welcomed to Brunei by a friendly local who passed by the luggage hold.  (It was a bit awkward to explain we were about to get on the bus to Miri.) Bruneians absolutely love travel, so expect to hear some stories about what they thought of your country too.

The whole reason I went to Brunei was that I met two girls from Brunei who invited me to visit Brunei.  This was years ago.  True to their word, our Bruneian hosts showed us around, took us out to dinner, and tried to ensure that we tried traditional Bruneian food by showing them a little slice of their lives in Brunei.  My most important tip: Make Bruneian friends! I recommend using Couchsurfing to make new friends .

Sharia law doesn’t apply to everyone in the same way, but use your judgment

Brunei has sharia law, but sharia law doesn’t equally apply to non-Muslims depending on the law .  This is a  big misconception I see on a lot of blogs written about travel in Brunei.  This was told to us by so many people and although I had no plans to break the law, I was a bit nervous before our trip.

Once we were in Brunei, I was shocked how laid-back Brunei felt.  That said, don’t be stupid and stick to your best behavior as tourists are still a rarity in Brunei. We don’t need a bad reputation abroad (We’re both Americans…)

Many Bruneians that we met were frustrated by Brunei’s perception abroad, due to stories by sensationalist newspapers elsewhere. This is not to say that you should be careless, but it’s good to stay informed about recent changes in Brunei, including the 2019 update to Sharia law in regards to theft and homosexua lity.

Tourists are beloved, but still, try to be respectful and use your judgment.  This involves trying just a little bit with dressing respectfully with not wearing sheer/ripped clothing that might attract attention at home.

Brunei is boring if you’re trying to party in Brunei

My mother-in-law likes to say only boring people get bored.  A lot of people find Brunei boring as it doesn’t have nightlife, but we loved Brunei.  I went all in trying to experience local Bruneian culture and came with an open mind.

• No, you can’t wear your short shorts.
• Yes, there are no nightclubs or bars.
• Yes, there’s no alcohol sold in most of Brunei. However, it’s allowed if you’re drinking the homemade rice wine with the Iban in the Temburong district during the harvest festival.

That said, Bruneians love lingering at coffee shops and restaurants over long dinners and coffees at night, so you’ll find many restaurants open until 10/11pm still serving food.

If you’re into culture, sustainable tourism, and elaborate architecture, you will probably enjoy traveling in Brunei.

Bruneians are proud of their country and happy to show a little piece of Brunei to foreigners, but you also need to be interested in experiencing Brunei. If you’re following the Southeast Asia party route, you’ll hate Brunei.

How to dress appropriately in Brunei

Although I read a lot of blogs about travel in Brunei and I asked a lot of people about what was appropriate to wear in Brunei, so I came off my flight wearing a hijab, a long-sleeve shirt, and a long skirt.  Immigration asked me if I was Muslim. I had to explain that I was trying to be respectful before the officer was like …. Thanks, but you don’t need to try hard.  Okay officer. 😉

I was lucky to visit friends in Brunei who told me not to worry much about appropriate clothes in Brunei while other female travelers in the travel community told me to dress very conservatively.

I think somewhere in between the two is best as one girl at our homestay did not dress appropriately (crop tops / sheer clothing / short shorts with rips) both inside/outside the home. It was not appreciated by our host.

Brunei is very humid and as a tourist, you’ll be walking around in the heat day-time, so keep this in mind when looking for clothing for Brunei.

What to wear in Brunei for women

What did I wear in Brunei? Most days, I wore a non-sheer loose fitting t-shirt, jeans, a silk scarf, and sandals.

On some days, I wore a tulle skirt (MISTAKE as it is a really heavy material) with a t-shirt. I’d recommend a lighter material.

Do not wear short shorts in Brunei and stick to lighter fabrics (think cottons). If you’re planning on visiting the national park, bring a bathing suit to go swimming in the waterfall!

Just in general, avoid excessive skin, cleavage, sheer clothing, and clothing with holes that might be seen as revealing. Use your judgment and try to dress appropriately in Brunei.

To get into the major mosques in Brunei, they will give you a garment to wear over your clothes and as well as a hijab, so no need to bring your own.

You see some Bruneian women dressed more conservatively, but I saw some women who were not Muslim wearing shorts (let me clarify: knee-length shorts). For women, I’d recommend a comfy appropriate skirt /t-shirt combination with a cotton/silk scarf.

I recommend a scarf as it’s nice to be able to cover up your arms when you’re in restaurants/cafes as the air conditioning can be quite high and you don’t want anything heavy.

I don’t recommend a dress as I ended up sweating through my dress while walking around day-time.

A skirt/t-shirt combination allows more possibilities for a clean outfit if you’re not packing a lot of clothes as you can just swap your t-shirt out for a clean one the next day!

For going out to eat at sit-down Bruneian restaurants, bring a nice modest knee-length dress as eating out is a big deal in Brunei. People definitely dress up for a nice sit-down dinner, so I recommend getting dolled up with a nice dress and makeup.

What to wear in Brunei for men

For men, we’d recommend wearing pants with a plain t-shirt (preferably white to help with the heat) are okay. My husband is a metalhead and toned it down while we were in Brunei although we saw some wearing printed/band t-shirts (although not metal t-shirts) around Brunei. We did see some Westerners in knee-length shorts too.

Politics are better not discussed.

Be careful what you say about Brunei, especially about the Sultan.  This is a sensitive topic, with legal implications, and it’s best not to discuss politics in Brunei, especially if you have something critical to say.  Remember:  Brunei does not have freedom of speech.

Public transit isn’t that commonly used.

I asked my Bruneian friends about it and they drive everywhere. If you’re visiting without a car, be wary of planning your journey entirely by public bus.  There is  a bus from the airport to the city center, but it does not run late.

Brunei’s waterfront is fairly walkable, however for further distances or on especially hot days, you will want to take a taxi.  It’s best to stay close to the city center unless you’re willing to splurge on taxis. (Note:  there aren’t  that many hotels in Brunei, so book ahead as the good ones sell out.)

For taxis (or something similar to Uber), download Dart to get rides around Brunei. This is a local app where you can provide your location, see the cost, and have a local taxi driver pick you up.

Bruneian food y’all.

I thought  Singaporeans loved food, but I had never visited Brunei.  Bruneians are HUGE foodies, so don’t leave without trying ambuyat and sampling the Bruneian food at the night markets . The seafood is fresh and very spicy, so if you see a local food centre, consider trying some seafood.  I swear, I gained 5 pounds while in Brunei.

A local also recommends ‘Nasi Katok’ .  I had a number of traditional dishes and I wish that I could remember the names of all the food that I had.  Just be adventurous and it will be delicious ( I hope).  I also really loved the dried squid with chili.

Everyone speaks English and people are super friendly

Bruneians speak flawless English.  In case you forgot, Brunei used to be a British protectorate, so not surprisingly, English is still taught in schools.  That said, many menus may be in Malay, but if you ask, the locals are happy to help.

Don’t miss Ulu Temburong National Park

Brunei may produce a lot of oil, but the government has made significant conservation efforts to preserve its incredible environment, and Brunei has some of the best preserved virgin rainforests in the world.

60% of the country is made up of virgin rainforest, which is unaffected by human activity.  The parts of Ulu Temburong that the public can access are limited, but incredible.

From the top of the slightly terrifying canopy bridge (not for those with a fear of heights..), you an see rainforest for miles… and the boat ride upstream in a traditional boat is worth it.

Read tips for visiting Ulu Temburong National Park.

LGBT rights

We can’t avoid talking about LGBT rights in Brunei as many people avoid going to Brunei for this specific reason.  Let’s be clear: there’s a death penalty for same-sex sexual activity, and non-gender conforming people may have issues . Recent changes in Bruneian law mean that LGBT travelers should show significant caution prior to traveling in Brunei.

We met some LGBT travelers who told us that LGBT travelers could visit Brunei with no problems with some precautions regarding appearances, getting separate hotel rooms if traveling together, not posting photos on social media, keeping a low profile, and being very careful as the government takes homosexuality seriously.

That said, travelers who are coming to Brunei will be surprised by the friendliness of its citizens towards any foreign tourists, but it’s your call if you’re willing to visit a country where homosexuality is illegal and enforced by law. I think that Meg Cale’s article about travel in anti-LGBT destinations is a good read if you’re on the fence.

Brunei isn’t cheap

You’ll find hotel prices in Brunei similar to prices in Singapore although hotel prices were surprisingly high.

If you’re coming from Malaysian Borneo, brace yourself for hotel prices that are generally higher than $50.  Homestays are catching on within Brunei, so consider doing a homestay if you want to experience a bit beyond the hotel.

 We stayed at the  Kunyit 7 Lodge , a sustainable tourism homestay in the middle of the Kampong Ayer water village.  Book your accommodation in Brunei as there’s not  that  many hotels in BSB.  The good ones that are affordable book up. I was about to book two different hotels and both rooms actually sold out for the dates that we visited Brunei in December after I waited a few days just to decide. 

Check hotel prices in BSB now!  

Nearly all the attractions in BSB are free, so expect to save some money on sightseeing although you’ll end up spending money on drinking ice cold coffee as it’s pretty hot day time.  Similarly, visiting Ulu Temburong isn’t cheap, but it’s worth it 100%.

In Bandar Seri Begawan, don’t miss the Kampong Ayer water village

I’ve visited a lot of countries and a lot places, but few places have inspired such awe in my mind.  Kampong Ayer is a fully functional village on stilts and it’s not just for tourists; people actually live there. I have no idea how it’s not a UNESCO attraction, but I suspect that it might become one in the future.  See it before the rest of the world discovers it…

When is the best time to visit Brunei?

Probably not summer as it’s hot year-round, but especially hot in summer.

There are four great times to visit Brunei:

• July 15th for the Sultan’s Birthday. If you’re considering visiting for the Sultan’s birthday, bring a fancy modest outfit that covers your arms, closed toe shoes, and a hijab (ladies). You will not be admitted otherwise. There’s a long line to get in, but if you’re curious what the sultan’s palace looks like, this is your chance to get in!  According to a kind local, you will only see the Sultan’s car on this day.
• Apparently the best day is Eid Day (date varies).  Men will be able to meet the Sultan while women can meet the Queen.
• We were luckily enough to visit just in time for the Regatta to see the boats racing on the Brunei river.  There’s a few each year, so check for events ahead.
• If you’re into fireworks and celebrations, visit for the National Day celebrations on February 23rd.
• June 1st for the Harvest Festival in the eastern part of the country.   It might shock people visiting Brunei for the first time, but there are non-Muslims living in Brunei.  One of the major ethnic groups of Brunei is Iban.  The Iban have their own culture and villages in the Temburong province, so consider visiting to take part in the annual harvest festival in Bangar.  It’s considered lucky if the vat of homemade rice wine prepared by each family is finished before the end of the festival, so non-Muslims, expect to give some assistance.

Have you been to Brunei? What do you recommend that tourists traveling in Brunei know?

Enjoyed this? Click for tips on things to do in Bandar Seri Begawan , visiting Ulu Temburong National Park , my complete Borneo itinerary , or an insider’s guide to Singapore.

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

December 19, 2017 at 1:55 am

OMG! I cant believe the office said that to you! But thanks for clarifying!

January 17, 2018 at 1:26 pm

Hello! Thank you SO much for these great posts about Brunei! I’m off to Brunei tomorrow, and I’m so excited! Can I ask you about transportation? What’s the best way to get from the airport to BSB? And what’s the best way to get around on daily basis? Thanks in advance 🙂

January 17, 2018 at 5:56 pm

Hi Lene, There’s a public bus that goes into the city that costs $1 as soon as you leave Arrivals. You should see a sign for a Public Bus, so just ask if you don’t. Just ask for directions as soon as you get there. Once you’re in the city, it’s very walkable besides getting to the water village (water taxi) although you might want to take a cab if you go to one of the further spots. Some hotels will arrange pick up for you. It’s best to carry a little cash on you for taxis and water taxis.

Glad these helped and hope you enjoy!

Best, Karen

January 24, 2018 at 7:07 pm

Hi Che, I heard the buses stop early and you’ll need to take a taxi if it’s late. I wish you a great trip in Brunei. 🙂

January 31, 2018 at 2:40 am

Hi Karen, As a Bruneian i see that many of your information is spot on. Glad to see some tourists appreciate Brunei which is underrated in terms of tourism. Just to add information and just a small correction. 1) During the Sultan’s Birthday you will only see him in his car when he passes by from the palace to the city centre where the main event takes place. If you want to see the Sultan in person and shake his hand is on Eid Day (You have to check your calendar as Eid Day falls at different dates every year) and only men are allowed to see the Sultan while the women are allowed to see the Queen. Just brace yourselves for the long que.

2) Another best time to visit Brunei is during the National Day celebrations which falls on the 23rd of February.

3) For local delights, i recommend eating ‘Nasi Katok’ that is rice with fried chicken with a little red spicy sweet sauce wrapped in paper. Its sold in many food stalls or the Gadong food market. It’s cheap (BND1) and most important delicious. A fast food restaurant called ‘Ideal’ and try their roasted chicken. It’s unique. There are many other delicacies but these two are the most famous among ‘ambuyat’ that i heard from other visitors.

February 24, 2018 at 9:24 am

Your posts regarding Brunei are really helpful, thanks a lot! 🙂

Do you have any updated info on the public buses in BSB? Been trying to search online but it is so limited. Would like to travel by public buses during my short trip in BSB.

February 24, 2018 at 10:56 am

Hi Shanice, let me shoot a message to my friends about it (I’ll reply once I hear back) although I know ALL of them drive. It’s best to stay close to the city center as not to inconvenience yourself as the main bus line goes between city center of BSB and the airport. Once you’re in Brunei, it’s possible to arrange transportation on private buses/ferries to nearby cities if you talk to anyone in the tourism industry.

Glad to hear that!

March 3, 2018 at 2:16 pm

Thanks Karen!

And yes, will just be trvelling around BSB but there are some places ie. The Mall & the night market @ Gadong that is located a little far out from my accom, which requires me to arrange transport. A new public transport Dart was also launched just months ago too!

Hope to hear from you soon! 🙂

March 3, 2018 at 4:54 pm

Hi Shanice, I haven’t heard anything back from my friends yet, however Gadong shouldn’t be too far by taxi from the center (maybe 15 minutes). Curious what you think about the Dart public transit option when you’re there. 🙂

I’ll remind them to answer.

Apologies, Karen

May 11, 2018 at 5:10 pm

hello! is the hariraya scheduled on june? or july? thank you very much!!

May 13, 2018 at 7:39 pm

In 2018, it’s 15 Jun to 19 Jun.

June 19, 2018 at 5:33 am

hi .. may i ask if its possible to get a taxi late night ? or do they have grab ? we will be arriving around 11.45 pm from manila Philippines.

June 20, 2018 at 3:38 am

Look up DART! It’s a new app similar to Grab for Brunei.

June 20, 2018 at 7:49 am

Very informative post! Thanks a lot for writing in such detail. Planning t trip to Brunei and your blog is immensely helpful!

Keep writing!

October 14, 2018 at 1:23 pm

Is Brunei safe for solo female travelers?

October 14, 2018 at 2:55 pm

Hi MM, A few female friends of mine have traveled solo in Brunei. They were quite comfortable. 🙂 Best, Karen

April 4, 2019 at 11:54 am

Thank you so much for the very informative article! Many things you said there will come in handy for my up coming trip there.

I have a question, what is you view on… I am going there with my opposite sex partner. We are non-Muslim and are not married. We are planning to stay in same hotel room. Is that just a no no? I am very worried about the newly in place adultery punishment! Some people said it doesn’t apply to foreigners, some say it does… Any idea?

And again, thank you for the article and for sharing your travel experience 🙂

April 5, 2019 at 6:05 pm

Hi Julz, I was married when I visited, but I’ve met others who were unmarried and had no problems traveling in Brunei. I’d skew on the side of more conservative if asked about your marital status.

Kind regards, Karen

July 15, 2019 at 12:47 pm

SO interesting and I want to travel there but there’s the thing I worry the most is : seafood allergy which I have, There’s any restaurants without seafood? Brunei is know for seafood right?

July 17, 2019 at 12:21 am

Hi Melody, I hope that it’s not an issue, however, I can’t say for sure. I recommend asking your hotel or accommodations to look up restaurants that cater well to other allergies. Hopefully, you’ll find somewhere good!

October 9, 2020 at 11:44 am

Wow this is very interesting! I’ll like to visit Bunrnel sometimes very soon. Love your write ups and hints! Very handy and straight forward! Thanks for this.

February 21, 2022 at 1:37 am

Hi this post is so helpful thankyou! I’m thinking of spending 1 week here as I travel around aisa but I’m struggling to find transport out of the country. I’m going to the Indonesian area of the island next making my way down to evenutaully et to Jakarta. Do you have any information on how to leave Brunei and where to travel to next?

Thanks in advance!

March 17, 2022 at 9:38 pm

The world is a weird place right now, so I would recommend checking the options for flying out of Brunei (mostly Royal Brunei air).

October 16, 2022 at 10:12 pm

Is Brunei ok for one to migrate to,what I mean is did they have jobs that pays well? Thanks for your write up bro.

[…] you might be visiting a couple restaurants with intense air conditioning during your trip (especially in Brunei) I recommend having a comfortable light layer that you can put […]

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BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: DIY Itinerary, Things to do + How to get there and more

Brunei darussalam travel guide blog and places to visit in brunei.

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2024 Travel Guide to Brunei for First-time Travelers

Table of Contents

B andar Seri Begawan – Brunei is a less-visited country on the north coast of Borneo, but don’t let this fool you, for the place is beaming with so many exciting attractions to see. This wealthy southeast Asian country ruled by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is famous for its low crime rate and beautiful spots where tourists can enjoy it.

About Brunei

The country is an independent Islamic sultanate. It lies near the South China Sea to its north and Sarawak, East Malaysian State. The soils found along the rivers and areas of the coastal floodplain are regarded as fertile soil.

A big part of the country consists of virgin tropical rainforest where plants and creatures thrive.

In this Brunei Travel Guide Blog, we listed some tips for making your DIY Day trip to Brunei. We also included Brunei Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more.

Brunei Visa Requirements

Foreign travelers from the following countries can enter Brunei visa-free as long as they present a passport valid for at least 6 months:

For up to 90 days: All European Union member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the United States.

For up to 30 days: Malaysia, New Zealand, Oman, Singapore, South Korea, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates.

For up to 14 days: Cambodia, Canada, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Maldives, Myanmar, Peru, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Currency of Brunei and Accessibility to ATM Machines

Brunei’s currency is the Brunei dollar. It’s used in establishments, so tourists must exchange their currency for the local currency to get around and do stuff. Singapore coins can also be used in Brunei. ATM machines are typical in Brunei in large and small establishments and tourist areas.

Brunei’s official language is Malay , but English is widely spoken and understood in urban areas due to its British colonial past.

WIFI Access

Some hotels offer free Wi-Fi, while telecom companies sell broadband sim cards that tourists can use in the country.

Best Time to Visit Brunei

Brunei has two seasons: dry season and wet or rainy season. January to May is the best time to visit the country because this is what they consider spring, although the peak tourist season is from June to August, which is too hot.

How to Get to Brunei

Cebu Pacific and Royal Brunei Airlines have daily flights from Manila to Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei.

Brunei’s sole airport of significance is  Brunei International Airport  ( BWN ), the national carrier Royal Brunei Airlines hub. 

How to get to the City from the Airport

A taxi to Bandar Seri Begawan takes 20 minutes and costs around B$25. A covered walk down to the end of the car park further away from the Terminal (turn right from Arrivals) leads to a bus stop for Purple buses to the city center (B$1) along with other busses for tours & hotel shuttles. The reason for the long walk is the extensive construction of airport upgrades.

Getting Around Brunei

Brunei’s taxis are not plenty, but they’re available at the airport to transport tourists to their locations. Tourists can also ride taxis by booking in advance through their hotel. Car rentals like Hertz and Avis are at the airport, but booking in advance is required. It’s also available for exploring for B$85 per day. The drop-off and pick-up service for car rental costs about B$100 per day.

An excellent way to go to Bangar and Temburong from Bandar Seri Begawan is through Water Taxis at the Canal Market or behind Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. There’s rail travel, but it’s not available to the public.

Where to Stay in Brunei

The empire hotel and country club.

Address: Jerudong Negara BG3122, Jerudong, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam

Deluxe Room price starts at USD249++ via Agoda

This 5-star hotel is one of the best in Bandar Seri Begawan. It has 518 guestrooms and high-class amenities for guests to enjoy.

There’s actually something for everyone. There are a business center and conference rooms for working guests, a fitness room for guests who want to continue their workout, a kids club for younger ones, and a swimming pool.

The Rizqun International Hotel

Address: Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam

Deluxe room price starts at USD115++ via Agoda

The Rizqun is located inside a large shopping complex. Through this, tourists can enjoy a live setting where they can go to local cafes in the afternoon and have foodie adventures in the night market, which isn’t far away. The hotel is adorned with ornate decorations that feature world-class elegance. It’s near the airport and features luggage storage.

The CentrePoint

Address: Hotel Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam

Deluxe room starts at USD83++ via Agoda

Accommodations in the Hotel include sports activities like tennis or racquetball and dining options at the food court on the ground floor or trying out Italian cuisine at Fratini’s. There are electric stoves and kitchenettes in the executive rooms. The hotel is also located in Gadong’s shopping district, so there’s much to see and buy.

Mulia Hotel

Address: EDR No. BD 30400 Lot No. 31954 Kg Anggerek Desa, Mukim Barakas, Brunei- Muara, Kianggeh, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam

Standard room price starts at USD73++ via Agoda

Mulia Hotel offers high-quality accommodation at a much lower price than the first two. The hotel features rooms with big beds, big living rooms, cable TV, and other standard items. Guests can have their currency changed at the travel counter inside the hotel. A salon is located inside the hotel for last-minute beauty services.

Easybox Budget Hotel

Address: No. 4&5 First Floor Block E Abdul Razak, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam, Kianggeh, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei- Muara, BE3159

Standard room price starts at USD20++ via Agoda

The hotel ensures guests get special treatment through their 24-hour front desk. All rooms have free Wi-Fi and a convenience store in the vicinity. It’s in the middle of Gadong, so guests can have access to all that the city has to offer. There are English, Filipino, and Malay language speakers in the hotel.

Qing Yun Rest House

Address: No.16 First floor, Block I, Abdul Razak Complex, Jalan Gadong BE3519, Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan

The standard room price starts at USD25++ via Agoda

Travelers who wish to stay in a budget hotel without sacrificing comfort will find this Rest house ideal. There are non-smoking rooms in the rest house and air-conditioning in some of the rooms. It’s near town facilities for easier access.  They have a taxi service, daily housekeeping, a car park, and free Wi-Fi in all their rooms.

Also Read:  List of the Best Hotels in Bandar Seri Begawan

Where to Eat

Kaizen Sushi Waterfront

Address: Waterfront, BSB or Kiarong Complex, Hassanal Bolkiah Highway

The restaurant overlooks a river. Its serene ambiance is the perfect setting for its menu.  This restaurant serves Japanese food like sushi. It has vegan, Halal, and gluten-free options. Their sashimi looks fresh and sumptuous. Their serving is enough to satisfy cravings. They’re open for families with children, business meetings, special occasions, and large groups.

Roti Culture Brunei

Address: Block H, Unit 8&9, Ground Floor, Gadong, BE3719, Brunei Darussalam

This vibrant restaurant’s history started in the home kitchen of the owners in 2004. Since then, they’ve been serving delicious Roti Prata made by their celebrity chef. The restaurant has received praise from its guests. They serve Indian, Asian, Indonesian, Malaysian, Vegan, and Halal dishes.

It’s a Grind Coffee House

Address: Simpang 13, Berkas, Citi Square/ G20, Ground Floor, Citis Square, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam

This coffee shop is an American franchise. They serve espresso-based and non-espresso-based drinks. They have cakes and pastries for guests with sweet teeth but also prepare sandwiches. The café can serve 40 guests and has free Wi-Fi. They also have Halal and vegan options.

Just Momos Nepali Restaurant

Address: Sdn Bhd, Jalan Bunga Tajong/Lot 82 Units A and B, Kuala Belait KA1131, Brunei Darussalam

This is a restaurant of its kind in Kuala Belait town. They serve Nepali/ Tibetan dumplings called momos and Nepali-style fried noodles and fried rice. They do serve other Nepali dishes as well as some Indian dishes. They boast of cooking with no MSG and using only a tiny amount of sunflower or mustard oil.

Where to Shop

There are notable places to shop in Brunei. Below is a list of those places.

Gadong Night Market

What to find

• Street food
• Plenty of shops and some stores which sell Muslim fashion

Hua Ho Department Store

• Daily necessities
• Supermarket
• Household items
• Restaurants
• accessories

Tamu Kianggeh

• street food
• other items

Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex

• budget items

Paul and Elizabeth Book Services

• different kinds of books

Arts and Handicrafts Training Centre

• silverworks
• carved wood
• ceremonial swords
• brass mini-cannons

Things to do and see in Brunei

Brunei is currently improving its tourism efforts, and with this, tourists can take part in tours and take pleasure in what the country has to offer.

Brunei is rich in wildlife and takes pride in its temples and establishments, such as Omar Ali Saifuddien. Below are some of the things you can do while in Brunei.

Pay Respect at the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

Location- Jalan McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8711, Brunei

This place of Islamic worship is touted as one of the most beautiful mosques in Asia. It’s a major historical site and a renowned tourist attraction.

The building, completed in 1958, is named after Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the country’s 28 th sultan. Visitors can come every day except Thursday and Friday. The entrance fee is free.

Check Out Brunei History Centre and Royal Regalia Museum

Location- Jln James Pearce, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8610, Brunei

The Brunei History Centre is Brunei’s go-to place for historical records and other pertinent details about the country. The construction of the History Centre was approved in 1982 by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.

The Brunei History Centre is open every Monday to Thursday and Saturday from 7:45am-12:15pm and 1:30pm-4:30pm. The entrance fee is free.

The Royal Regalia Museum (formerly Royal Regalia Building) houses ceremonial objects of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and the royal family. Visitors can also see the exhibits about the Silver and Golden Jubilee celebration of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s rule.

Water Taxi Your Way to Kampong Ayer

The settlement features clusters of traditional stilt villages on the Brunei River. It’s often called the “Venice of the East” and used to be the country’s main settlement.

It was the principal settlement in Brunei before serving as a social and economic center. The water village can be reached by water taxis.

Experience the Gadong Night Market

Location-  Simpang 37, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Pasar Gadong, or Night Market, is a busy place where visitors can enjoy street foods like chicken wings, fried kuey teow, meat satays, sweet pancakes with peanuts, raisins, and sugar fillings, etc. What’s tempting about all the food served there is that they make it after your order. Dishes usually cost B$1-B$3. The night market opens from 4pm until 12 midnight.

Experience Nature at Ulu Temburong National Park

Don’t miss the chance to see what nature in Brunei looks like. It’s located within Apoi Forest Reserve, and you’ll see a virgin forest called the “Green Jewel of Brunei.” Many fruiting figs and common plants like ginger, begonias, and aroids abound in the park, while different types of mammals, reptiles, butterflies, insects, and birds can be seen.

Location- Jln Sungai Kianggeh, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8111, Brunei

The marketplace opens early, and you can buy local vegetables like pucuk piai, langkubok, and lamiding. Other more familiar vegetables can be bought, like bamboo shoots and chilies. They also sell herbs, spices, dried fish, fermented fish, and shrimp. Some non-food products tourists can buy as souvenirs are parang (machete-like knife) and decorative food covers. There is plenty more to believe in this place.

Visit Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque (Kiarong Mosque)

Location- Kampung Kiarong, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

This impressive Islamic temple has 29 golden domes in honor of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s spot as Brunei’s 29 th ruler. The mosque was built in 1992 and features minarets and woven rugs in the men’s prayer hall. The towering house of prayer is so lavishly designed that tourists won’t miss it even from afar. The entrance fee is free.

Take a Look at Istana Nurul Iman Palace

Location- Jln Menteri Besar, Bandar Seri Begawan BA2112, Brunei

This is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, and it’s the seat of the country’s government. Brunei River cradles the palace, which is often the location for state celebrations. It’s called the “world’s largest residential palace.” Istana Nurul Iman comes from Istana (Malay word) and Nur-ol Imaan (Arabic word), which means the Palace of the Light of Faith.

Book Tutong River Cruise

The river cruise will take tourists to a mangrove river and possibly the endangered Proboscis monkeys. Tourists will be picked up by the designated driver from their hotel and taken to the tour’s meeting place. They will then ride a pontoon boat to see Nipah palm trees, sea eagles, Kingfishers, white egrets, and long-tail macaques. They might catch a glimpse of saltwater crocodiles and langurs.

Is it safe to travel to Brunei?

With very few negative travel advisories against Brunei, Brunei is one of Southeast Asia’s safest countries to visit. With low crime rates, those traveling solo can always feel safe while roaming in Bandar Seri Begawan, even at night.

Brunei Sample Itinerary 2N/3D

10:05 pm – Arrived at Bandar Seri Begawan 11:35 pm – Arrived at the hotel 6:00 am – Eat breakfast 8:00 am – Visit Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque (open daily except for Thursday and Friday morning; the entrance fee is free) 10:00 am – Visit Brunei History Centre and Royal Regalia Museum (located near each other) 12:00 NN – Have lunch 2:00 pm – Visit Kampong Ayer (can be reached through water taxis) 7:00 pm onwards – Visit the Gadong Night Market (street foods and other items)

6:00 am – Eat breakfast 7:30 am to 5:00 pm – Take a day tour of Ulu Temburong National Park (see native wildlife) 6:00 pm – Eat dinner 8:00 pm onwards – Have a drink or two

6:00 am – Eat breakfast 7:00 am – Visit Tamu Kianggeh 8:30 am – Visit Jame Asr Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque (Kiarong Mosque, the entrance fee is free) 9:30 am – Go to Istana Nurul Iman Palace 12:00 NN – Eat lunch 1:00 pm – Visit shopping areas 3:00 pm 6:30 pm – Join Tutong Proboscis Monkey Cruise 7:00 pm – Eat Dinner 8:00 pm – Get ready for departure 10:00 – Flight to Manila

Important Brunei Travel Tips

• Book a car or taxi in advance to get to the places you need to go to
• Take advantage of the places where you can visit for free
• You can use the wooden walkways instead of hiring water taxis to visit water villages (in case you’re on a tight budget)

Important Contact Infos

In another country, it’s essential to know some agencies’ contact details like the tourism office, hospital, and police department.

Brunei Tourism Website: www.tourism.gov.bn Tel: +673 2382 822

Brunei Police Department Website: www.police.gov.bn Telephone: +673-2242334

Ministry of Health, Brunei: www.moh.gov.bn Ambulance:991 Fire & Rescue: 995 Police: 993 Search & Rescue: 998 Talian Darussalam: 123

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights to Brunei? Check out our list of best Brunei hotels and resorts  via  Agoda  and Booking , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about the best activities and tourist attractions in Brunei? Follow #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook , Twitter ,  Instagram , and  Pinterest for Brunei Travel Guide updates and local travel recommendations.

• Top 5 Reasons Why I Want To Visit Brunei!
• Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque: Cotabato City’s Golden Mosque

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Brunei Travel Advisory

Travel advisory december 19, 2023, brunei - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Brunei.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Brunei. 

If you decide to travel to Brunei:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow Embassy Bandar Seri Begawan on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Brunei.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .     

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The Prime Minister will travel to Bandar Seri Begawan and Kuala Lumpur as part of a series of introductory visits to Southeast Asian capitals.

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SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will visit Brunei and Malaysia from Tuesday (Jun 11) to Wednesday, the Prime Minister's Office said on Monday.

Mr Wong, who is also Singapore's Finance Minister, will visit Bandar Seri Begawan at the invitation of Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, followed by Kuala Lumpur at the invitation of his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim.

This is his first overseas trip since he  took office last month and it is part of a series of introductory visits to Southeast Asian capitals.

In Brunei, Mr Wong and his delegation will have a royal audience with the sultan and Queen Saleha, and also be hosted to an official lunch by the Bruneian leader.

The Singapore delegation will also meet Brunei's Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah, who is a senior minister at Brunei's Prime Minister's Office, and his wife Sarah.

Mr Wong will be accompanied in Brunei by his wife Loo Tze Lui, Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations Grace Fu, National Development Minister Desmond Lee and Minister of State for Communications and Information and for Health Rahayu Mahzam. 

He will proceed to Malaysia on Tuesday evening and meet Malaysian Prime Minister and Finance Minister Anwar and other Malaysian leaders the following day.

Since taking office, Mr Wong has also connected with other fellow Southeast Asian leaders – either over the phone or in person – including Indonesian president-elect Prabowo Subianto, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.

Brunei and Malaysia were also the first countries that Mr Wong's predecessor Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong visited when he took office in 2004.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong will be Acting Prime Minister in Mr Wong's absence.

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