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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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Anna Sherchand

Solo Female Travel Blog

Brunei solo travel itinerary for 5 days

This trip was in collaboration with Brunei Tourism, Thank you for the amazing time! PS: all opinions are my own.

Brunei is one of the hidden gems of a place in Asia. Whether you are on a visa run or looking for a week-long escape, this country could be the one for you. Especially the Ulu Temburong National Park, the tranquility and peace I felt there is off the charts! So if you looking for a Brunei solo travel itinerary, read on till the end.

At first, I wasn’t sure how many days I should plan for Brunei and when I googled, I found loads of people were saying there is not much to do and 1-2 days is enough but one thing I know for sure after traveling to 45+ countries, is 1-2 days is never enough.

Every country is beautiful in its own way and with a new culture, food, history, sightseeing and off-the-beaten-path places to explore, you definitely need more than 3 days. So, I went for jam-packed 5 days but in the end, I was wishing I was there longer. (maybe next time) Alright without further ado, let’s begin!

Brunei solo travel itinerary

Day 1: mangrove sunset and more, day 2: kampong ayer, day 3: back from temburong and to soto pabo, day 4: brunei half-day tour, flower show, and more, day 5: bandarku ceria and shopping, travel tips to brunei:.

I landed in the afternoon around 4ish and still had the rest of the day to explore. So, from the Badi’ah Hotel , you can either walk 20 minutes or order a car from Dart App (cost 5BND only!) and go to Mangrove Sunset Cruise on a Water Taxi to see the proboscis monkeys. The perfect time to go would be around 4:30 PM.

To get on a Mangrove Sunset Cruise, you need to approach any water taxi located by the jetty. The price for a tour to see the proboscis monkeys (and crocodiles and monitor lizards, if you’re lucky!) should be around BND15-25 and should take about 30-45 minutes.

When you come back walk to nearby Frame Brunei Darussalam. It is a quite special view of the Mosque from here. Then for the dinner I recommend going to Kaizen Sushi Restaurant Waterfront which is within short walking distance from Frame Brunei. Dart back to the hotel and good night’s sleep.

After having my complimentary buffet breakfast at the hotel, I could have walked 15 minutes but I order Dart (again it was only 5 BND) to the water Jetty area where the water taxis are. You can ask to be dropped off at the “Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery” for your own self-guided tour.

This should be about a 1-minute boat ride and should cost no more than 50 cents to a dollar. Once you are there, you can ask for a walking tour map from the Gallery. When I was there they were out of the map, but you can also take a photo of the map outside the gallery. Plus there are signs everywhere so you will hardly get lost!

Kampong Ayer is an interesting area, with little wooden pathways leading to the historic settlements of the local people, a mosque, local handicraft shops all above the water! Famously known as the water village aka Venice of Asia! Main highlights include – Jabal Rahmah, Pottery House, Arch Maker, colorful houses, and Kunyit 7 Lodge.

When you wish to get back, flag the boat and pay 50 cents to a dollar to get back as well.

TIP: Make sure to bring an umbrella/hat and a bottle of water and use plenty of sunblocks! And be careful on the wooden walkways as the planks have large spaces in between them.

I had lunch at Mekong Cafe back in the city. They do Indian, Malay, and Chinese food. If you don’t care much about the interior but want good food then go here.

After lunch, it was time to call Dart again and head back to the hotel. As I was headed to Temburong for 2D and 1 N, I left my carry-on suitcase at the concierge and only took a night bag with me.

I left Temburong around 2 PM and was back at the Jetty. A guide from Pan bright travel service was waiting for me and then he dropped me off at my hotel. It was 3 pm at this point, I checked in again at Badi’ah Hotel and rest for a few hours.

For the evening I recommend taking a Dart to “Soto Pabo” for a local sunset dinner. The “local sticky noodles” you see above on the picture is actually called “ambuyat” and it’s actually just a starch dish made out of sago palm flour with hot boiling water stirred in. We also had the beef soupy noodles called “Soto”. A write-up of local Bruneian delicacy on the “ambuyat” can be found here: https://sutera.co/the-story-behind-ambuyat/ .

It is popular among the locals and it could get busy during the evening. So arrive a little early to get tables before sunsets and enjoy that amazing food with fantastic sunset views!

After breakfast at the hotel. I was picked up by Pan Bright Travel Service for my half-day city tour to:

• Royal Regalia Museum
• Tamu Kianggeh
• Waterfront Dermaga (if open)
• Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque
• Taman Mahkota Jubilee Emas

Happy to let you guys know Mr. Lim the guide was fluent in English, knowledgeable, and respectful. He explained in detail the history of places, about the Sultan Omar, hotels and night market too. It was hot during the day, but we were driving around in a car with full blast AC and that made all the difference! Overall, 10/10 for the guide, what the tour included, and pickup/drop-off service. I highly recommend Pan Bright to organize your Brunei solo travel itinerary tours.

When I got back to the hotel, it was time to shower and get ready again! I took a Dart to “Rimba Garden Central” for the Brunei International Flower Show. It was such a pretty place full of different flowers, plants, trees, and they even had how-to grow plants workshops! Loved it! TIP: The flower show doesn’t run all year round so, I suggest checking the Brunei Tourism website to see what’s currently on. I would also like to take this opportunity to Thank you team over at Brunei Tourism Board and the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism for a pleasant stay in Brunei. I look forward to visiting Brunei Darussalam again!

Then for the evening, I went to the Empire Hotel to watch yet another Bruneian sunset. It was beautiful, to say the least, but there were a lot of couples too. It seemed like it was the local’s favorite dating destination. Anyhow, you can have dinner at the Empire or back at your hotel. As for me, one of my Bruneian friends invited me to the 30th Toyota Classics performed by the London Chamber Orchestra!! Her Royal Highness of Brunei attended the show and I got to see her in person too! It was an evening of beautiful music and delicious food. What a way to end my last night in Brunei!

My last day was Sunday. And I didn’t know the main road will be shut and open to pedestrians for the weekly Sunday “Bandarku Ceria” (translates to My Happy City).

So after breakfast, I took a leisurely stroll around the city center of Brunei. It was weirdly exciting to see many people on the open road which made Bandar Seri Begawan more lively on Sundays. The area spanning from the Royal Regalia to the Waterfront is a car-free zone from 6 am to 10 am every Sunday.

Alternatively, you can take a Dart to The Mall Gadong to see a different commercial area in Brunei or do some last-minute shopping!

TIP: Ask for a late checkout if you have an afternoon or late night flight. Usually, the hotel approves it or you just have to pay for the day.

1 To find the cheapest flights to Brunei, book it through the most trusted sites such as Skyscanner or Momodo.

2 Get a local Sim card After you land in Brunei international airport, get yourself a local BND25 sim card with Progresif from the Progresif Airport Counter, which should be on your left as you exit Customs.

3 There’s no Uber in Brunei, Install Dart app Download the Dart app from the App Store and Google Play on your day of arrival. It is Brunei’s first ride booking app. Taxis are not only expensive in Brunei but there is no clear public transportation route. Even locals told me they aren’t sure how to use the bus in the city and perhaps will take an hour to get from point A to B. So, I myself used the Dart app and found it very convenient and easy to use. Works exactly like Uber, with reliable and fast door-to-door service.

4 Good to know Currency = Brunei dollar Capital City = Bandar Seri Begawan is formerly known as Brunei town Districts and their capital cities = Belait (Kuala Belait), Brunei-Muara (Bandar Seri Begawan), Temburong (Pekan Bangar) and Tutong (Pekan Tutong) Good morning = Selamat pagi Good afternoon = Selamat petang Goodnight = Selamat malam Thank you = Terima kasih You’re welcome = Sama-sama What is your name? = Siapa nama awda? My name is = Nama saya Anna Excuse me = Maafkan saya Yes = Ya No = Tidak How much? = Berapa?

5 Where to stay in Brunei? I stayed at the Badi’ah Hotel in Brunei Town (Bandar Seri Begawan) It is only a few minutes from the airport and not too far from the must-see places in town as well. Plus they provide pick-up and drop-off shuttle service from the hotel.

I stayed in the executive room and must say there was a lot of space! Huge King size bed, a nice comfortable leather couch, desk, and chair to work, water delivered daily and newspaper too if you are into it, and free wifi!

Buffet breakfast was fresh every day, mostly Asian inspired but there was an element of English with cakes, bread and you can order your eggs as you wish. There is also a swimming pool on level 3 (from memory) and a cafe/restaurant on the ground floor which I didn’t get to visit because of my busy schedule but spend a few minutes checking it out. Overall, I liked this hotel, enjoyed my stay here, and recommend it to you on your visit to Brunei.

6 Is Brunei safe to travel to? I solo traveled myself and didn’t have any problem throughout my stay. Pretty much everyone spoke English, from a cab driver, tour guide to local on the street. Unlike other destinations in Southeast Asia, Brunei is probably the safest.

It could be because there is extremely low consumption of alcohol by visitors and none by locals, and with no clubs or bars, they seem to have ultra-low crime rates (apart from the occasionally petty theft).

7 Can I wear shorts in Brunei? Although Brunei is an extremely conservative country, it’s acceptable to wear shorts or even swimwear of your choice here. Having said that though, I would respect the culture and wear a long sarong that can be worn as a skirt or a thin crop top on top of my swimwear. I also wore all long skirts and half sleeves during my stay.

When is the best time to visit Brunei? June – September is the high season but I recommend visiting between January and May. You will have dry and warm weather but not too hot. February and March are the driest months of the entire year though.

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19 thoughts on “ brunei solo travel itinerary for 5 days ”.

Looks like a beautiful place! Putting this on my bucket list now!

Wow! Looks like you are having such a great time in Brunei! Looks like I will be adding it to my bucket list. Those palaces are incredible!

That is such a pretty place! If I ever get there, I’ll probably follow this itinerary exactly.

From your picture, Brunei looks like a lot of fun. And that I am sure you did.

What an adventure. I will need to check sky scanner out when I book my next trip.

WOW! What a fabulous destination! This the type of place I would like to visit. Would definitely follow your itinerary.

I will be very honest here….I can only visit Brunei for the food and nothing else! Their human rights record is still so much wanting, to me. And that alone, is the very first item on my travel checklist!

I’ve never heard of Brunei but it sounds and looks like a wonderful place to visit! I’ll have to check it out!

the staircase is instagram worthy. cinderella, no? and a water taxi? how fun! i have never used one before.

What a gorgeous place to visit and that sunset photo is insane!

I love the photos! I was there last year. It’s cheap and the food is amazing! Public transport is an issue though!

I’m not traveling to Brunei soon but I’ll be saving this itinerary for future reference! Thank you!

Thank you for taking us along with you for your travels. The pictures are beautiful. I will be looking more into this location, it looks like a great spot.

Looks like a beautiful place! Thank you for sharing your adventure with us 🙂

Girl you looked like you had the time of your life! I love this and I would be interested in visiting Brunei one day!

After reading the sultan of Brunei this isn’t really a place high on my list to visit. I don’t like double standards.

Your photos all look amazing and it sounds like you had a very wonderful time there during your trip. I haven’t been to Brunei but hopefully soon with the family.

Sure looks like a place worthy of a visit! I love the photo of you with the orchids and the pretty plants in the background. I will now add Brunei to my travel bucket list. Thanks for the travel guide!

I honestly had never heard of Brunei before. Looks like a beautiful place to visit. I love all of your pictures. 🙂

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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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Backpacking Brunei: 3 Day Brunei Itinerary

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from if you purchase something through them. This comes at no extra cost to you!

Brunei is one of the most developed yet least visited countries in the entire world and is situated on the Southeast Asian island of Borneo.

This tiny Islamic nation is somehow frequently overlooked by backpackers and travellers on a budget and over time has become known as “ Boring Brunei ”. Well, luckily for me, that meant that the country was almost completely tourist-free when I visited in early 2020 and allowed me to delve deep into all that it has to offer over a few days.

Despite being the 5th wealthiest country on earth because of the massive oil and gas industry, Brunei is a surprisingly budget friendly travel destination where you can easily see the sights over a few days without breaking the bank. By basing yourself in the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan you can see all the best bits in a day or two, including the world’s largest water village and the elusive proboscis monkeys that are endemic to Borneo.

Famed for its grand mosques and urban architecture , a visit to Brunei is certainly a unique cultural experience, but what if I told you there are also idyllic sandy beaches and a whopping 123,552 acre National Park ! Not so boring now, huh?!

Table of Contents...

Useful information for Brunei

• Language : Malay
• Capital : Bandar Seri Begawan
• Population : Brunei’s population is only about 445,000!
• Currency : £1/$1 = $1.60/$1.30 BND (Brunei Dollars)
• Visa info : Brunei offers 14-day visas on arrival to some countries but more commonly they offer a 90-day visa on arrival which costs 20 BND ($18 USD). Look for your country’s requirements for Brunei here .

Where is it

Check it out on the interactive map below.

How to get there

Brunei has a well-connected international airport with flights arriving from all over Asia regularly. Use Skyscanner to find the best deals on airfares.

Grab a local SIM card and download Dart , Brunei’s version of Uber, at the airport and book a car to get to your accommodation. Some hotels will offer airport transfers for free like mine did, so be sure to double check that beforehand too!

When to visit

The temperature and climate in Brunei can be pretty extreme so its good to know when to visit to avoid the sweltering humidity as best you can!

There are two monsoon seasons from November to December and May to July, with the high season (dry season) being between January and May. February and March are the driest months of the entire year and are super-duper humid.

I visited Brunei in March and the humidity outside was borderline unbearable. Short walks were okay, but at some points I genuinely felt like I was in a sauna. I’d never experienced humidity like it and I really recommend not visiting at that time of year.

Aim to visit in the shoulder season in January or May to get the best of both worlds.

How to get around

Bandar Seri Badwan, the nation’s capital, is such a small city that once you’re in the downtown area you can easily travel between locations on foot . That said, sometimes walking is not appealing.

Dart : To stay out of the heat, use Dart. Brunei’s version of Uber is a no-brainer as normal taxis are infrequent and inconvenient and with Dart you know how much it’ll cost before you get in. In-App payments are sometimes used but it’s more common that you’ll pay with cash for Dart rides in Brunei so make sure you’ve got some notes with you just in case.

Tours: Another way to get around quickly and efficiently is by guided tour. This means you can see the sights with a professional guide while receiving interesting information about everything. For the best tours in Brunei use Viator .

This is one of the best tours on offer in the country: Brunei Full Day City Tour including Tamu Kianggeh, Royal Regalia & Kampung Ayer .

Where to stay in Brunei

Brunei’s capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, is the only logical option when it comes to choosing where to stay. The country is very small so all attractions can be easily visited from there, plus it’s also where you’ll find the best choices and deals on accommodation.

The best resources for finding good accommodations in Bandar Seri Begawan are Booking.com and Hostelworld , but you could also try Airbnb in Brunei too.

I stayed at EZ Lodgings which was in a great location and is one of the best rated and most affordable places to stay on Booking.com at around $20 USD for a private room. 

Check out EZ Lodgings on Booking.com here.

How long to stay

Visiting the best bits of Brunei could easily be accomplished in less than a week due to its size.

There is obviously more to the country than just the capital city, but most of the highlights are located around there and day trips are available to the locations further afield. Overall, I would recommend 3 or 4 days in Brunei.

Expected costs

Thinking of visiting Southeast Asia soon? Don’t miss these essential guides to help planning your trip:

34 Essential Items You Need For Solo Backpacking Southeast Asia

46 Must Know Travel Tips Before Backpacking Southeast Asia

3 Day Brunei Itinerary

Download dart.

First things first, make your life easier and download Dart .

Brunei’s version of Uber is by far the best way to get around the country on a budget as well as staying out of the blistering humidity as much as possible.

You’ll need a local SIM card to hail a ride, but believe me, it’s worth it. Taxis are infrequent in Brunei and by using Dart you can also pay online so you never need to fumble around with cash.

Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque​

The majestic Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the largest mosque in Brunei and one of the nation’s two most famous religious sites.

It is unquestionably a must-see attraction in the country.

Depending on where you’re staying you may want to book a Dart to get here as it’s outside of downtown Bandar Seri Begawan and walking that far in the heat is not recommended.

The massive structure was built in 1994 as a dedication to the 29th Sultan of Brunei, hence the 29 golden domes. It has four 60 meter tall minarets and appears on a $10 Brunei Dollar bill!

Entrance is completely free , but you must be dressed appropriately to be granted access. It was closed when I visited, but we were still able to wander around and admire the stunning exterior.

River boat tour along the Brunei River

No trip to Brunei is complete without a boat trip along the Brunei River.

On your trip you’ll see the famous proboscis monkeys that are found only in Borneo, as well as saltwater crocodiles and an abundance of bird life .

To find a boat simply head down to the BSB wharf behind the Tourist Info centre here and wait a few minutes. Someone in a small boat will appear and then it’s up to you to agree on a price for the river and water village tour. For a private 2 hour boat excursion the price was 30BND which is about $21 USD or £17. Originally it was 40BND, but after a quick haggle a discount was agreed. I’m not sure if this is a good price or not, but it seemed reasonable to me at the time and the man put a lot of effort into showing us everything, so I’m happy with it!

The river takes you past palaces before suddenly turning into a dense mangrove forest which is when you think “ wait, wasn’t I just in the capital of Brunei ?”. It’s crazy that this wild place is in the heart of a capital city!

The monkeys are shy and very good at hiding, but in the end I spotted about 10 of them as well as 3 salt water crocodiles.

The tour will also then go to Kampong Ayer.

Alternatively to doing a river boat tour you can head to the wharf and ask the boat-taxi to go directly to Kampong Ayer for something like $1 to explore it on foot by yourself, but this means you won’t get to see the monkeys or crocs further down the river and you’ll need to find a ride back later too.

Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, meaning “water village”, is the world’s largest floating settlement and is found just across the river from downtown Bandar Seri Begawan.

This sprawling stilt-village is a striking contrast to the gold domes and majestic buildings of Bandar Seri Begawan and it’s the perfect opportunity to experience what local life on the water is like.

Sometimes referred to as the “ Venice of the East ”, you can find a large community of nearly 30,000 people living here in a mixture of new government-built buildings and old wooden stilt houses.

Meandering through the fully functioning river-streets of Kampong Ayer you can admire the fire station, school, police station, houses and museum before hopping off to explore on foot.

Kampong Ayer Cultural Museum

I feel it’s always important to learn about the history of the place where you stand, so when the boat driver asked if we’d like 15 minutes to look around the museum, I gladly accepted.

Inside the Kampong Ayer Cultural Museum you can view photos and read an abundance of information on how the village has changed over the years and how all of the different services are able to work here. Learn how the floating town holds ceremonies like weddings and funerals and how they move houses too. Who knew moving house could be such a big deal?!

The museum is free to enter and I highly recommend popping in for 10 minutes.

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Asia and is named after Brunei’s 28th Sultan (the current Sultan’s father).

The 52m high mosque is the most popular tourist attraction for the very few tourists that visit Bandar Seri Begawan.

It is built on an artificial lagoon which creates awesome reflections and makes it appear even more epic. The mosque’s most recognizable feature, the main dome, is covered in pure gold .

Even when the mosque is closed to the public you can still enter the gates and look around the complex to take photos, which is what I did. There is a short, winding walkway leading to a slightly elevated viewpoint at one side and around the other is a picturesque palm tree avenue with the mosque as a towering backdrop.

Golden Jubilee Crown Park

After you’ve wandered around Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque, make sure to tie in a visit to the nearby Golden Jubilee Crown Park for a slightly elevated view.

Surrounded by floral gardens and water features, the small park is the perfect place for a better view of the iconic mosque and an afternoon stroll.

Royal Regalia Museum

Another massive gold-domed building… who’d have thought it?!

I think it’s always appropriate to learn about a country when you visit for the first time, and so I was excited to read about Brunei and the Sultan in the Royal Regalia Museum. Inside you can view old weapons, artifacts and vehicles used by previous sultans as well as paintings and other artworks.

Unfortunately, due to Covid 19 slowly creeping into our lives by this point, it was closed during my stay and I didn’t get to see inside. I’d still say you should check it out though, as it’s free and, if nothing else, provides some shelter from the sticky heat outside.

Visit Brunei Empire Hotel

Fellow budget travellers… bare with me here!

The Empire Hotel is a 6 star luxury hotel 20km north of Bandar Seri Begawan on the coast of the South China Sea where the grand architecture and posh surroundings are sure to be a shock to any budget backpacker’s system.

Spending a day at the hotel is a popular thing to do as they actively welcome walk-in guests to use their large pool and other amenities. There’s a beach, cinema, golf course and plenty more, so don’t rule it out just because it’s a fancy hotel!

Getting here is easy from downtown Bandar Seri Begawan as you can book a Dart for around $11 BND and spend your day at the pool or by stuffing your face with their incredible afternoon tea and cake selection.

Ulu Temburong National Park

Most of the landmass that covers Brunei is rain forest, and Ulu Temburong National Park covers an impressive 123,552 acres out of Brunei’s 1.42 million.

Also called the “Green Jewel of Brunei”, take a scenic boat journey through the unspoiled mangrove forests of Ulu Temburong National Park to see lesser spotted monkeys as well as gibbons and hornbills.

The park has mountain peaks rising to 1800m and a stunning canopy walk is also available which offers breathtaking views and plenty of animal sightings.

Book a tour from Bandar Seri Begawan below.

My experience in Brunei

I spent 4 nights in Brunei in March 2020, just days before Covid shut down the entire world.

Apart from the blistering humidity, I really enjoyed my time in Brunei. It was much more affordable than I imagined beforehand, and despite being a lot more expensive than most other Southeast Asian countries I was pleasantly surprised by the prices for food, transport and accommodation. The culture is also really interesting and the people I met were very friendly and welcoming.

There’s enough here to keep you entertained for 3 or 4 days, but after that you might find yourself twiddling your thumbs a little.

Overall, I definitely wouldn’t rule out Brunei as a travel destination like so many people do, just make sure you avoid the most humid times of the year!

Moral of the story: it’s only “boring Brunei” if you make it boring!

Best tours in Brunei

Happy travelling!

HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Accommodation: Booking.com , Hostelworld

Tours : GetYourGuide , Viator , Klook , TripAdvisor

Transport : 12Go , Omio , Trip.com , Rome2Rio

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Click below to learn more about my story, including 5 random facts about me, some travel FAQ’s and my entire travel history.

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Brunei Travel Guide Blog: Tourist Spots, Must-Try Restaurants + Itinerary

• Post author: escapemanila
• Post comments: 0 Comments
• Post last modified: June 12, 2023

A comprehensive Brunei Travel Guide featuring the country’s top tourist attractions, must-try food and where to find them, and a sample itinerary ideal for first-time visitors.

A tiny rich country in Southeast Asia, Brunei Darussalam features extravagant mosques, well-preserved rainforests, and diverse culture. It is one of the least visited countries in Asia making it an ideal nation to visit if you love less crowded places.

Visa Requirements to Brunei

More than 50 nationalities can enter Brunei without a visa for a period of 90, 30, and 14 days depending on their citizenship.

Visa-Exempt Countries

Visa on arrival.

Citizens of Australia, Bahrain, China, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Taiwan can enter Brunei with a visa on arrival.

Visa Fees for Brunei

The visa cost is BND20/USD15 for a single-entry visa and BND30/USD23 for a multiple-entry visa. To check more details about the application process per country, go to the official Brunei Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: http://www.mfa.gov.bn/Pages/Visa-Information.aspx

How to get to Brunei?

There are two ways to get to Brunei Darussalam, by air, and by land from Miri (Sarawak) or Kota Kinabalu (Sabah) in Malaysia.

By Air : The national flag carrier of Brunei is Royal Brunei Airlines. It has direct flights to Bander Seri Begawan from Bali, Bangkok, Brisbane, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Melbourne, Nanning, Shanghai, Singapore, Surabaya, Taipei, Tokyo, Dubai, Jeddah, and London. You can  check and book cheap flights to Brunei now . From the Philippines, Brunei Airlines and Cebu Pacific have multiple weekly flights.

By Land : The easiest and fastest way to travel by land from Malaysia is via Miri. There is a direct bus service from Miri to Bandar Seri Begawan and vice-versa. The travel time is only 3 hours compared to the 7 hours travel time from Kota Kinabalu. You check the bus schedule here .

If you are in Sabah and want to travel overland to Brunei, you can get on a bus or ferry from Kota Kinabalu to Bandar Seri Begawan. Check out the bus schedule from Kota Kinabalu to Brunei .

When is the best time to visit Brunei?

The best time to visit Brunei is between the months of January and May. This is when the weather is good – dry and warm, but not too hot to endure. It’s also a lean season so expect cheaper rates on tours and accommodation. The high season, on the other hand, is from June to September, and in December. This is where tourists usually go to Brunei so expect a surge in hotel room rates.

How to get to the city center from Bandar Seri Begawan Airport

There is a public bus going to the city from the airport but the schedule is infrequent. The more convenient way is to book a car through Dart, a hailing cab app that works like Uber and Grab. It’s cheaper than taking a taxi that costs around BDN20-25.

Connecting to the internet in Brunei

Upon arrival at the airport, you can buy a local sim card with prepaid mobile data. You can choose a data plan depending on how many days you will to stay in Brunei. The unlimited data plan of Progresif for seven days is BND25.

Where to exchange local currency in Brunei?

There are only a few exchange centers in Brunei so you may have to exchange your currency at the airport. In the city, there are currency exchange centers in front of The Mall, inside Yayasan Mall, and a few others in the city center. Take note that most exchange centers close at 4:30 PM.

How to get around Brunei?

Public buses are the cheapest way to get around Brunei. Unfortunately, it only operates until 6:30 PM. If you plan to go around Bandar Seri Begawan at night, you may book a car via Dart or take a taxi.

Where to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei?

There are a lot of places you can stay when visiting Brunei. Depending on your budget, you can opt to stay in a five-star hotel or in a hostel if you are backpacking.

Luxury: The Empire Hotel and Country Club Mid-range: Radisson Hotel Brunei or Kiulap Plaza Hotel Budget: Joy Rest House or Bwn Bed Station

Must-try Restaurants in Brunei

Here’s our recommendation for the must-try restaurants in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.

Amina Ariff Restaurant

If you want to try Brunei’s national dish called Ambuyat , then Amina Ariff Restaurant is the place you should go to. Ambuyat is made from the starch of the sago palm tree. It’s basically tasteless so you have to dip it in a fermented durian sauce called tempoyak or pair it with other condiments as you like.

Horizon Restaurant

If you want good food and a panoramic view of Kampong Ayer, then Horizon Restaurant at the waterfront is the perfect place for you. It serves a wide variety of Asian and Western dishes and sumptuous seafood.

For authentic Bruneian Soto or noodle soup, head over to Soto Pabo, a family-run restaurant located in the water village. Soto is basically like batchoy in the Philippines. It’s a noodle soup with lean beef, beef fats, and internal organs. Aside from Soto, it’s also interesting to try their mixed skewers – chicken, beef, and beef fats – sinfully good!

Nasi Katok Mama

Nasi Katok Mama is popular for its rice and chicken meal for only 1 Brunei Dollar. It’s an ordinary and simple meal but what makes it popular is its sambal. You can choose regular or spicy sambal depending on your preference. This is highly recommended.

Top Tourist Attractions in Brunei

Less crowded and definitely clean? If you enjoy this kind of vibe, then visiting these top tourist attractions in Brunei should be in your next travel plan.

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is located in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. It is one of the most popular Islamic mosques in the Asia Pacific, which the Muslim community considers as a major historical site and a place of worship.

Most tourists are impressed by its beautifully made Italian marble walls and floor; chandeliers crafted in England, and elegant carpets from Saudi Arabia. Imagine seeing the crafts of different countries in one place!

Sumbiling Eco Village

Brunei is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to experience an untouched rainforest. Community-based ecotourism is thriving in this tiny rich nation. Many visitors go to Brunei to experience the rich culture and explore its unique environment. If you are one of those travelers who love nature, culture, and adventure, then the Sumbiling Eco-village is the right place for you. They offer guided jungle trek, water tubing, and other activities. Plus, you also get to eat local dishes prepared by the villagers. This is a must-try when you visit Brunei!

Kampong Ayer

Kampong Ayer, which means “water village”, consists of a cluster of villages built on the river. It was formerly the center of traditional industries like gold and silversmithing, weaving, and boat making. So as you come to Kampong Ayer, expect to see the place as a reflection of Brunei’s wonderful arts!

Brunei River & Proboscis Monkey

Most travel agencies in Brunei include roundtrip transportation to the famous Brunei River. It allows you to see exotic species like the Proboscis Monkeys in the mangrove forest, and pass by the water village to immerse with the locals!

Royal Regalia Museum

The Royal Regalia Museum houses the replicas of Sultan’s belongings. This includes His throne, gowns, crowns, and other weapons. You can also find crystal, ivory, jade, and silver gifts that is a clear sign of Sultan’s wealth.

Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

The Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is built in celebration of the 25th year of Sultan’s reign in 1992. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Brunei and the largest mosque in the country with terrazzo-tiled minarets in its surroundings. Apart from that, the complex has 29 golden domes that are lit up like a golden flame every night. Finally, its lavish exterior matches its interior with several woven rugs scattered in the praying hall. 

Istana Nurul Iman

The Istana Nurul Iman was included in the Guinness Book of Records for being the largest living residence of a state head in the world. This palace houses the country’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. It is both a massive and luxurious royal palace that has golden domes and minarets scattered around the complex. 

Eco Ponies Garden

.Eco Ponies Garden started in 2015 as a small farm stay in Lamunin, Brunei. Today, it has grown into a popular ecotourism destination in the country, attracting both local and foreign visitors. It carries the farm-to-table-concept so you will be assured that the food you eat here is from fresh ingredients.

Tasbee Farm

Owned by Hj Mitasby Hj Mamit, Tasbee Farm is a meliponiculture farm located in Kg Sg Kelugos’ old Tutong Road. It all started with Mitasby’s fascination with bees then he decided to commercially produce honey from different species of stingless bees. Actually, it’s more than just beekeeping for Mistasby as he also educates people about the importance of bees in the ecosystem.

ATV Adventure at Katimahar AgriPark

If you like some sort of an adventure in Brunei, then head over to Katimahar AgriPark. I tried their ATV ride and it was the longest one I’ve had. It was definitely exciting. I had so much fun!

Malay Technology Museum

The Malay Technology Museum is made up of three exhibition halls: Water Village Traditional House Gallery, Water Village Traditional Technology Gallery, and Inland Traditional Technology Gallery. The museum is actually well-curated and well-maintained. It’s something you should visit if you want to learn more about Brunei’s past.

Sample Brunei Itinerary

Day 1: flight from manila to bandar seri begawan.

5:00 PM: Arrival in Brunei 7:00 PM: Dinner at Amina Ariff Restaurant

Day 2: Explore Temburong District

7:30 AM: Pick up at the hotel for the Sumbiling Eco Village Tour 8:00 AM: Speed boat ride to Bangar Town, Temburong 9:00 AM: Arrive in Sumbiling Eco Village and do the jungle trek, water tubing, and lunch 2:30 PM: Depart Sumbiling Eco Village to BSB 4:00 PM: Arrive in BSB 7:00 PM: Dinner at Horizon Restaurant

Day 3: Explore Tutong District

8:00AM: Depart hotel to Eco Ponies Garden and Tasbee Farm 12:00 PM: Lunch and ATV at Katimahar AgriPark 4:00 PM: Travel back to BSB 7:00 PM: Dinner at Sato Pabo

Day 4: Bander Seri Begawan City Tour

Visit the tourist attractions in Bander Seri Begawan: Royal Regalia Museum, Malay Technology Museum, Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Istana Nurul Iman, Water Village, Omar Saifuddien Mosque. Lunch at Nasi Katok Mama Depart BSB to Manila

For tour services, you may contact Pan Bright Travel Service at +673-224-0980

For more travel updates, follow our Facebook Page or our Instagram account. You may also subscribe to your YouTube Channel to watch our recent videos.

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Brunei: The Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures

“Brunei gave me this sense of peace and calmness.”

This was my answer when asked by a friend and journalist, Aziz from Borneo Bulletin, about my first impression of Brunei. This really comes from my heart, and if you’ve been following my blog, you know that I’ve always been honest with sharing my travel experiences.

The thing is I came from a country with a very crowded and stressful metropolis, so experiencing Bandar Seri Begawan, or BSB, the capital city of Brunei is new to me. Imagine, the center of business looks peaceful with lesser cars, and everybody seems to have enough space for everyone. That is even considering the fact that based on studies, Brunei has one of the highest car ownership rates in the world with one car per every 1.5 people in 2017. Meaning almost all Bruneians have cars.

To understand my amazement with Bandar Seri Begawan, you have to hear where I am coming from. I’ve been stressed commuting within Mega Manila for years when I was still working at my corporate job. As my blog grew, I never really intended to quit my job that early, it is the stressful traffic and inefficient public transportation that led me to finally quit, but I didn’t regret it.

So seeing Brunei with my own very eyes, makes me realize that hey this kind of city is actually possible. Can this be done also in the Philippines? I know as a country that we have a long way to go, but at least it is comforting to know that it is possible. No wonder Brunei Darussalam actually means Abode of Peace.

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

I traveled to Brunei as part of the Philippine representatives for the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei Darussalam – Indonesia- Malaysia- Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area) Tour. This is a cooperation initiative by these countries to increase trade, tourism, investment and overall economic development in the region.

Flying with Royal Brunei Airlines

We flew an afternoon flight via Royal Brunei Airlines – the flag carrier of Brunei. Honestly, it has been years since the last time I traveled overseas so I had to remind myself once more on the process and protocols at the airport. I remember the immigration in the Philippines constantly asking about my occupation. I just wrote their Travel Writer. He paused for a while and hell, I was ready to provide my blog details in case he asks for more. But since I have the complete hotel and flight tickets, and explained to him that everything was shouldered by Brunei Tourism Board.

I have been focused on traveling and exploring the Philippines, so I am used to traveling on domestic airlines. Let me just share with you how it is to fly via Royal Brunei. They have this screen in front of each passenger for viewing movies and listening to music. They have a quite good lineup of movies and music. During the entire flight, I watched the movie, Aquaman.

They also gave out some free earphones for everyone, just in case you didn’t bring your own. When it comes to food, I loved it. I am usually happy with some cookies and coffee that is usually served on domestic flights in the Philippines. So, just imagine when they served some chicken pasta with bread and juice, that for me is already heaven. Thank you, Royal Brunei.

I had a good experience with Royal Brunei, but for your information, our very own Cebu Pacific also flies to BSB, Brunei. So you have an option for a budget-friendly airline, but in case you have the money and all, I recommend you fly with Royal Brunei.

Discover Brunei

We arrived at BSB Airport late afternoon and traveled for a few minutes going to our hotel. We stayed at Kiulap Plaza Hotel in the downtown area where the stores and restaurants are located. It’s quite a nice place. During our entire stay at the hotel, we were able to try some restaurants, a Korean coffee shop and we also bought our groceries at the nearby supermarket.

Just one important info for you, in case you buy something at the supermarket, please be reminded that Brunei has a total ban on plastic bags. When you buy something at the grocery store, the teller will just put a red sticker on your goods showing that it’s already paid for, but you have to have your own eco-friendly bag to carry your goods. I learned my lesson the hard way, I bought some food at the grocery store maybe about 8 pieces, and then I had no eco-bag. Hahaha! So I had to carry all those groceries out of the supermarket. I had to make sure that everybody understands that I bought the goods and I was not a shoplifter. LOL! Good thing the grocery is just a walking distance from our hotel.

Kiulap Plaza Hotel was nice and comfortable. It has an old Asian-inspired design but at least the most important things are met which is comfort and security. It’s nice to know that at the end of a hectic schedule with the tour and all, I had a nice room and bed waiting for me.

Two beds for me. 🙂

By 6:30 PM, the tour company assigned by the Brunei Tourism Office for us picked us up for our dinner at Amina Ariff Restaurant, one of the popular restaurants in Brunei serving some authentic Bruneian dishes.

At the restaurant, we met Azwan, a warm and nice dude, representing the Brunei Tourism Board, and two journalists from the local media – Aziz from Borneo Bulletin, Wardi from The Bruneian News, and Azim, who works for a Digital Agency.

Bruneian dishes of vegetables and fish are somewhat similar to what we have in the Philippines, but one that truly stood out was Ambuyat – the national dish of Brunei.

It is a starchy bland substance in a bowl that is made from the interior trunk of the sago palm. Look.

Ambuyat is eaten using a chandas , bamboo fork, by rolling the starch around the prongs and then dip it into the sauce. Honestly, the taste is bland but the flavors will now come from the sauce. For us, we tried the fermented durian sauce called tempoyak , which is a little bit sweet.

Warning for those who don’t like durian, tempoyak is sweet and tasty but it still has a strong durian aroma. It’s weird but even after returning to our hotel and even the next morning, I could still smell it. I don’t know if it actually stayed in my senses or what. But I like durian, so I have no issue with it. LOL!

Ambuyat has a quite interesting history, shared with us by our new Bruneian friends. It started during World War 2 when the Japanese troops invaded Brunei, they seized all the rice of the locals. Thus, resulting in a shortage of the locals’ staple. In searching for an alternative, they were able to discover making Ambuyat from Ambulung or Sago.

It was also during our dinner that we learned a lot about Brunei from our new friends from the Brunei Tourism Board and local media. So if you are planning to travel to Brunei, here are some important things you need to know.

Important Things About Brunei

Brunei’s Water Village

•  Bruneians speak English – Actually, Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the official language of Brunei. But just like the Philippines, they use English for education and business. English is widely spoken in the country, so language barrier would not be a problem if you are an English speaker.
• Brunei is a Muslim country, but they embrace other religions and cultures – The country is also proud of the diversity of its people. Visitors are welcome in the mosques, but proper attire is required. It is our way as non-Muslims to observe and respect Islam when we enter the mosques. Women are required to cover their heads, knees, and shoulders. Mosques are closed on Thursday, Friday, and during prayer times.
• All citizens of Brunei receive free education and medical services from the government . Sana Oil. LOL!
• The currency is Brunei Dollar (BND) – the Singaporean dollar is also accepted in Brunei. ATMs from international and local banks are available. Also, major credit cards are accepted in most establishments.

3-pin British type plug

• Smoking and drinking alcohol are prohibited – This might be the reason why Brunei is tagged as a boring country. For me staying in Brunei for less than five days, I can stand not drinking and I am also a non-smoker, so it’s not a problem for me. But for those who are staying there for years, this can be a challenge. Most of the Filipinos I met in Brunei said, that they actually need to cross the border to Malaysia just to have a simple videoke session. LOL! All in all, people there, find their “ways.”
• Brunei International Airport is just a 15-minute drive to the city center and downtown area.
• Use DART (Ride Booking App) in exploring the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan and nearby towns. This is the most efficient and affordable way of exploring the city. It is Brunei’s version of Grab and Uber. More details about why you should use Dart, below this article.
• Internet in Brunei – You can easily buy a local sim at the airport or at the malls in Brunei. The one that we’ve found is the unlimited plan of Progresif which is BND 25 for seven days. Of course, feel free to look for other options or check the effectivity of the roaming services of your local provider in your own country.
• Visa Requirements to Brunei – More than 50 nationalities are visa-exempt in traveling to Brunei, depending on the length of stay as mandated by the government. Filipinos, Indonesians, Thais, and other nationalities can stay in Brunei for 14 days without a visa.  Citizens of the USA, Norway, Switzerland, and other European countries can stay up to 90 days. For more details about visas, please check Brunei’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs here.

How to get to Brunei

Brunei’s flag carrier Royal Brunei has direct flights to Bandar Seri Begawan from Manila, Dubai, Tokyo, Jeddah, London and other major cities in Southeast Asia. I’ve already shared with you at the beginning of this post my personal experience flying with them. I’m truly satisfied with the service and I highly recommend that you try flying with them.

If you’re from the Philippines, Cebu Pacific also has a direct flight from Manila to Bandar Seri Begawan.

Malaysia to Brunei by Land – Since Brunei is surrounded or enclosed by the Sarawak State of Malaysia, there are direct buses from the city of Miri to Brunei, which is about 3 hours travel time.

In case you are exploring Sabah, Malaysia, there is also a direct bus from Kota Kinabalu going to Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.

Use DART in exploring BSB and nearby areas

Brunei Tourism Board was able to get us a free coupon code to use DART in exploring the city. This is to show how easy, convenient, and cheap it is to use Dart than taxis and public transport in Brunei. Dart is Brunei’s answer to Grab and Uber.

We booked a ride from our hotel (Kiulap Plaza Hotel) going to The Box which is quite far from the city. The car fetched us after a few minutes of waiting and safely took us to The Box where we had our lunch. We paid about 6 Brunei Dollars.

Feeling endorser? LOL

Again, this is affordable compared to taxis which costs about 25 Brunei Dollars.

Public Buses in Brunei have unstable schedules and it’s only operational until 6:30 PM, What? LOL! You have to understand that almost all people in Brunei have their own cars, so in a way, we can say that public buses are not an urgent necessity for them. LOL! (Again, sana oil) So, in case you want to explore the city, use Dart. It’s like using Grab in Southeast Asia and Uber in America or Europe. When you arrive in Brunei, you must download Dart, asap.

Brunei Tourist Spots and Attractions

Our call time was 6:30 AM for our first day of touring Brunei.

Just for you to know, Brunei is also called the Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures, and I agree. As a neighboring country of the Philippines, I already have some preconceived notions about Brunei like this is also a tropical country, so it is also rich in natural resources and forests, but after experiencing the Rainforest Discovery Trek at Sumbiling Eco Village in Temburong District, there were some surprising things that I learned about the country.

Sumbiling Eco Village – The Rainforest Discovery Trek

Mohammad, the tour guide, picked us up at our hotel early that morning. By the way, our driver is Filipino. He is the Ilonggo , Kuya Ramon, and he has been working in Brunei for about 10 years already. One thing that you’d definitely enjoy while touring Brunei is that you’ll meet a lot of kababayan or fellow Filipinos.

In just a few minutes, we were already at the port, where our speedboat was waiting for us. We were about to explore the Sumbiling Eco Village and its forest in Temburong District.

Brunei is divided into 4 districts – Muara, Belait, Tutong, and Temburong. Only Temburong is separated from mainland Brunei. Just for you to know Brunei is a small country in the Borneo region that is surrounded and actually enclosed by the Malaysian State of Sarawak. Here’s a map of Brunei’s 4 districts.

The 4 Districts of Brunei

So there, we were about to explore the Temburong District which is obviously separated from the rest of Brunei, based on that map. Locals who travel to Temburong can either do it via land travel or by speed boat. Those who are choosing to drive all the way to Temburong still need to pass through the Malaysian border, because there is a Malaysian territory which is in between, right?

Another one is via speedboat, it is a 45-minute travel that passes through rivers and open sea until reaching Temburong. We traveled to Temburong via a speedboat.

Boarding the speedboat

The rest of the local media and Brunei tourism were all asleep, but me, I was enjoying the view as well as the adrenaline of the new experience.

Our tour guide for that day was Leslie Chiang, the Managing Director of Borneo Guide. He showed us the Temburong bridge that the Brunei government has built to connect Temburong and the rest of Brunei. A 30-kilometer infrastructure that started in 2014 and expected to open to the public by the end of 2019. The project was handled by Korean and Chinese construction firms, but Leslie stressed that it was paid full by the Brunei government.

So after 45 minutes of travel, we finally arrived at the Temburong District. Again, I felt the relaxed and laid-back vibe of Brunei in this region. We first made a stop at the local weekend market and then traveled by another 25 minutes by land to the Sumbiling Eco Village. We tried the famous Bruneian food called Wajid Jawa which similar to our Bico .

That’s Azwan from Brunei Tourism Board and my fellow travel blogger, Glen

Sumbiling Eco Village is a community-based and sustainable tourism focused property in the middle of the jungles of Temburong. Locals in the community are the ones working and maintaining the place. It welcomes visitors from all over the world to experience the culture, food, and traditions of the locals who are mainly the Iban tribe while appreciating and protecting the environment.

They served us some delicious local cuisines which are actually similar to the meriendas that we have in the Philippines. I particularly enjoyed my cup of coffee while eating and chatting with fellow travelers. I was with Glen from EscapeManila , we are the two travel bloggers from the Philippines who were invited to participate in this tour organized by BIMP-EAGA. Along with us are the members of the local media of Brunei and some foreigners from the Netherlands and South Korea.

Coffee Time

To let us feel the authentic food preparation, the staff of the eco-village prepared a demo on how to cook chicken using bamboo. This is the old way of cooking of the locals, using only what nature could offer. I then realized the similarities between Brunei and Philippines’ old traditions because we also have this in the Philippines. Our indigenous people in Luzon also uses bamboo to cook chicken and even rice.

Later that afternoon, we ate the chicken cooked in bamboo for our lunch.

Cooking chicken inside the bamboo

So, our rainforest discovery trek started by riding a longboat to cross the river, then on the other side, that’s where we start our trekking.

Rainforest Discovery Trek

The group was joined by Apai, the leader of the Iban community in the area. He was a warm and happy old man, eagerly showing us around the forest. The trek lasted for three hours, LOL and that was something that I didn’t expect. But hey, I used to hike mountains, so the experience was exciting for me, even though I was wearing a polo shirt with my usual rubber shoes. Well, my fellow blogger, Glen, was just wearing slippers. LOL! So if you would like to explore Sumbiling Eco Village and the Rainforest Trek, you might as well wear at least a sturdy trekking shoes.

Apai taught us so many things, just in case you get lost in the forest. I mean if ever you’d stay in the forest for a while, he shared us some survival tips from showing us the many uses of plants for food and medicine, to even set up the bait, to capture wild boars. Apai said that this is their way of life in the past. Many years ago, they just rely on what the environment provides, and they survived. So even though with the advent of technology, they instill to the new generation the value of taking care of the environment.

I am serious. LOL

Awesome Team! Photo Credit: Aziz Idris of Borneo Bulletin

Speaking of protection of the environment, one that really struck me was the fact that 70% of Brunei is made up of rainforest. That only shows how serious they are in environment protection. This is the takeaway for me, and bring back to my country.

After the rainforest trek, we then experienced the river-tubing. It was indeed a nice and relaxing way to end our trek. Exploring the rainforest can be tiring, but it was all taken away by the relaxing river tubing while experiencing the serenity of the forest that surrounds the river.

So happy and relaxed.

What a better way to cap off our day than by feasting on delicious local dishes served to us by the accommodating people from Sumbiling Eco Village. The chicken cooked from the bamboo was delicious. The meat was tender and just the right amount of flavor. We also had some fresh vegetables paired with what we call in the Philippines, the itlog na maalat, or salted egg.

Our lunch after the Rainforest Discovery Trek

I told you, we’re gonna eat the chicken cooked inside the bamboo. It’s delicious!

My tummy, as well as my heart, was full for the day of exploring the rainforest of the Temburong District. This is really a must experience if you want to know what Brunei can offer when it comes to ecotourism. In Temburong, you can also explore the Ulu Temburing National Park, a popular nature park in the region.

Kampong Ayer

If you’re in Brunei, you have to explore and experience Kampong Ayer, Brunei’s water village in Bandar Seri Begawan.

It was 4:00 PM when we took a speedboat going to Kampong Ayer. It is just amazing to see houses and pathways interconnected within the entire village. One noticeable also are the houses, it’s mostly huge made of concrete and complete with air-conditioning. ( sosyal ! LOL).

After touring the village through a speedboat, we made a stop to one house to experience what it is like to stay in a water village. It’s a huge house. We first entered the kitchen area then followed by a series of rooms in the middle. Then following the path is the main room or sala in the Philippines, where they accept guests.

Brunei’s version of merienda hehe

They served us a nice tea with some local Bruneian bread and dishes. If you want to experience the authentic Brunei history and culture, go for a tour at Kampong Ayer.

ATV Adventure at Katimahar Agripark

Say Hi to our DOT Assistant Secretary, Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar. She’s clearly enjoying the ATV Ride. 🙂

We, the travel bloggers and the local media, have a different schedule and tour than the delegates of BIMP-EAGA. On our first day, while they were having an important conference, we explored the Temburong District.

But on the second day, we got the chance to be with all the delegates when we experienced the ATV Adventure at Katimahar Agripark.

DOT Asec Myra with the delegates

It is a 7 kilometer ATV ride, the longest ATV ride that I’ve experienced so far. With all the bumps and slopes that we all have endured, it was definitely fun and exciting adventure.

BIMP-EAGA Delegates

We then had our lunch at the Katimahar Agripark as a quick stop-over than continued with the ATV ride.

You have to try this! You may contact them directly at their Facebook Account MPK Katimahar Agri Park or contact +673 872 0750 for reservations.

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

No wonder, this is the most beautiful mosque in Brunei, and probably even in Southeast Asia. I was actually stunned the first time I saw this mosque, it’s grand and adorned with gold, located in a serene lagoon.

This mosque was named after the 28 th Sultan of Brunei, who’s the late father of the current sultan. It has a lavish interior with floors and walls which are made from the finest Italian marble, and luxurious chandeliers from United Kingdom.

I’m here na. LOL

Omas Ali Saifuddien Mosque has a 52-m minaret which is the tallest structure in Bandar Seri Begawan. The sultan is prohibiting any structure to be built that is taller than this mosque.

Mohammad said that the government just want to make sure that people could easily see the mosque if they look for it, and it would be easy if it remains the tallest building in the city. He even shared a story about the building of Islamic Bank of Brunei once exceeded the height limit, so by order of the Sultan, the top storey had to be removed.

Minsan lang to. Hahaha

I believe this is also the reason why the capital city of Brunei emanates a sense of peace, because there’s no skyscrapers here unlike the major cities of the world.

Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

This is Brunei’s largest mosque. We were able to explore the first floor of the mosque as Mohammad, showed us the Ablution area which is the space where Muslims prepare and cleanse before the prayer.

On higher floors, cameras are not allowed. Mohammad showed us the large prayer room which can house hundreds of Muslims. Just like any Mosques in Brunei, it also has a lavish interior. This mosque also has 29 golden domes, which are lit up at night.

Istana Nurul Iman

This is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei – Hassanal Bolkiah. We visited the place while having the city tour in Bandar Seri Begawan. Although we weren’t able to enter, it is just important for you to know that this is the world’s largest residential palace with 1,788 rooms. How about that?

This is actually located near the Brunei river and we even spotted this palace when we did the water village tour at Kampong Ayer. The palace is open to the public only during the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri at the end of Ramamdan, which explains why we only had photos of the palace outside.

Mohammad was eager to tell us an important trivia about the palace, that it was actually designed by a Filipino architect Leandro Locsin, mixing some elements of Malay and Islamic designs. As a Filipino, I am delighted to know that information.

Eco Phonies Garden

On our second day in Brunei, we traveled for about 45 minutes to Lamunin in Tutong District to visit the Eco Phonies Garden.

We met Eyon Ukoi, co-founder of Eco Phonies Garden. She shared that it all started in 2015 when her sister thought of an idea to set up a cottage at the back of their house. Then they met an Australian family who wanted to experience the taste of wild durian. This family also practices organic lifestyle and stayed at the garden for four days.

After that, people from all over the world started visiting the garden, which gave Ekon the opportunity to promote the Bruneian culture through food, and also helping the local farmers in the community.

Durian Fritters

We just stayed in the garden for an hour, but we already experienced the delicious food that they offer as well as the refreshing drinks. We also met some volunteers there from the UK and the US.

Tasbee Meliponiculture  Farm

This is actually a bee farm where you can learn about the different types of stingless bees and how they produce a variety of honey.

We met there Hj Mitasby, the owner of the farm. He shared that he started the farm in 2009. He was just particularly interested in beekeeping, but after many years, he realized that he could use the farm to educate people on the value of stingless bees in the natural ecosystem.

He showed us a room filled with different information about stingless bees, as well as the different honey that each type of bee produces.

Then, he even showed us how to harvest honey from different stingless bees. It was definitely a first-time experience for me. The natural honey also tastes so good.

Malay Technology Museum

This is one of the last attractions in Bandar Seri Begawan that we visited before heading back to the hotel and prepare for our flight back to Manila.

It has 3 exhibit halls namely the Water Village Traditional House Gallery, Water Village Traditional Technology Gallery, and Inland Traditional Technology Gallery.

The first gallery is all about the traditional houses of the people of Brunei living in the water village. Remember that Kampong Ayer or water village played a huge role in the culture and history of the country. The gallery is a showcase of the architectural structure of the house in the water village during the 19 th century.

Royal Regalia Museum

This is one of the first attractions that we visited during our city tour located at the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan.

One of the interesting displays in the museum is the chariot used during the sultan’s silver-jubilee procession in 1992. Also, you’ll find here the gifts of different countries to Brunei during special celebrations. Try looking for the gift from your country when you visit the Royal Regalia Museum.

Where to eat in Brunei?

Don’t leave Brunei until you get a taste of its authentic cuisines. Here are some of the food and restaurants that we’ve tried during our trip. All are highly recommended.

Amina Ariff Restaurant

Ambuyat and other Brunei dishes

This is where we had our first Bruneian food experience during our first night in Brunei. This restaurant offers authentic Bruneian dishes.  One of the stand-out was Ambuyat – the national dish of Brunei.

Tempoyak – a sauce made of Durian

I’ve already shared with you some details of this food at the beginning of this post. Well, Ambuyat is made up of the interior trunk of Sago palm. It is starchy and tasteless, but the exciting part is you have to dip it into the sauces to create a taste that you desire. One of the popular sauces is the fermented durian called Tempoyak .

I was so full that dinner. The experience was even more enjoyable because of the stunning view of the Brunei River.

Nasi Katok Mama

The sambal sauce makes this simple meal, so delicious!

You can either choose for spicy or sweet sambal. As for me, I chose mixed, and it was delicious! I ordered two and finished everything in just one eating. So good. You have to try this when you visit Brunei. Plus, the one serving the food is a Filipina. Say hi to her when you buy their delicious chicken dish.

Horizons Seafood Restaurant

The restaurant is located at the waterfront with the breathtaking view of the water village or Kampong Ayer.

It is stylish and carefully chooses shops that adhere to their standards and creativity. It’s a mix shops, cafes, and more restaurants, not just food stalls. Plus, their comfort room’s design is pretty creative. So over the top!

We tried some delicious chicken rice at The Box and some refreshments. Check it out when you visit Brunei. This is just quite far from the city center, but don’t worry you can just book a ride with DART.

Where to Stay in Brunei?

We stayed at Kiulap Plaza Hotel during our entire trip and I was satisfied with the amenities and food. Plus, they also have a warm and accommodating Filipina and an Indonesian staff at their restaurant. It was nice chatting with them.

The location is also good, which is very near the grocery and restaurants. CHECK ROOM RATES HERE.

If you have a tight budget, you can also check out some hostels in Brunei. They have a few in the capital city.

Brunei Itinerary

This itinerary is just the same one that we had during our trip to Brunei, you can use this as a reference and feel free to alter to fit with your schedule.

Day 1: Arrival in Brunei 5:30 PM – Arrival at Brunei Airport 6:00 PM – Check-in at Kiulap Hotel 7:00 PM – Dinner at Amina Ariff Restaurant

DAY 2 : Temburong District 8:00 AM – Meet up at the port for the speed boat ride to Temburong 9:00 AM – Arrival in Temburong 9:30 AM – Arrival at Sumbiling Eco Village 10:00 AM – Rainforest Trek, River Tubing and late lunch. 3:00 PM – Depart from Sumbiling Eco Village going to Bandar Seri Begawan 7:30 PM – Dinner at the Horizons Seafood Restaurant

Day 3: Tutong District 8:00 AM – Depart from Hotel going to Tutong District 9:00 AM – Arrival at Eco Phonies Garden 10:30 AM – Arrival at Tasbee Farm 12:30 PM – ATV Ride and Lunch at Katimahar Agripark 4:00 PM – Back to Bandar Seri Begawan 7:00 PM – Dinner at Soto Pabo

Day 4: City Tour 8:00 AM – Start of City Tour Visited Royal Regalia Museum, Istana Nurul Iman, Omar Saiffudien Mosque, Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Malay Technology Museum 12:30 PM – Lunch at Nasi Katok Mama 3:00 PM – Kampong Ayer Tour (water village) Flight back to Manila

There you have it, I hope you enjoyed this long post about Brunei. If you need help with your itinerary, feel free to get in touch with the Brunei Tourism Board , or contact Pan Bright Travel Services at  +673 224 0980. They handled our tours while we were in Brunei.

If you want to try the Rainforest Trek at Sumbiling Eco Village in Temburong, contact the Borneo Guide here.

Note: This travel to Brunei was made possible through the Brunei Tourism Board. Thank you for your warmth and hospitality. I’ll surely go back!

Also, thank you to our DOT Assistant Secretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar and her awesome team, for giving me the chance to participate in this important BIMP-EAGA Tour.        

More Posts About Asia Here:

• Wat Arun in Bangkok, Thailand -The Temple of Dawn
• Ultimate Guide to Border Crossing: Bangkok to Siem Reap, Cambodia by Bus
• Angkor Wat in Cambodia: A Journey to the World’s Largest Religious Monument

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GALENG!!!! very very DETAILED.. i miss travelling waahhhh 😀 you da best!!!

Thank you, Gev. In case na gusto mo pumunta sa Brunei. Alam mo na, I’m here to help. LOL

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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.

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

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

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2024 brunei travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, budget, tips and more for first-timers.

Traveling to Brunei for the first time this 2024? Check out this BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG with DIY Itinerary, top things to do in Brunei, best tourist spots, budget, breakdown of expenses, hotel recommendations, travel tips, and more!

2024 BRUNEI TRAVEL GUIDE FOR FIRST-TIMERS (Things to Do, Tourist Spots, Itinerary and More!)

Brunei visa requirements, how to stay connected in brunei, esim details.

• Validity: 14-30 days
• Internet speed: 4G/3G/Unlimited data speed up to 128kbps
• Service type: Data only
• Coverage area: Brunei
• Data limit: Unlimited
• Hotspot Sharing: Yes
• Local telecom operator: UNN

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY?

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?

TRANSPORTATION IN BRUNEI

From brunei airport to city center, going around the city.

WHERE TO STAY IN BRUNEI?

Hotel Gina Suite

Top-rated hotels in brunei, top 15 things to do, tourist spots and attractions in brunei (including free attractions).

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Jun 15, 2018 at 3:26am PDT

1. Visit Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

• Monday-Wednesday & Saturday - 08:00 AM – 12:00 NN / 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM / 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM
• Sunday - 10:45 AM - 12:00 NN / 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM / 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM
• Thursday & Friday - Closed

2. Explore the Historic Royal Regalia Museum

• Sunday – Thursday - 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
• Saturday - 09:45 AM – 05:00 PM
• Friday - 09:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 02:30 PM - 05:00 PM

3. Visit Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

• Monday-Wednesday & Saturday - 08:00 AM – 12:00 NN / 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM / 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM
• Thursday & Friday - Closed

√ For hassle-free tour, you may join a Brunei Half Day City Tour in Bandar Seri Begawan .

4. Enjoy Bandar Seri Begawan Waterfront and Park

5.Take a Motor Boat and Cruise along Brunei River

√ for ease and convenience i highly recommend booking a proboscis monkey encounter tour with a hassle-free and all-in tour, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the included hotel pick-up and drop-off service with a professional driver and guide. book a tour here.

6. Visit Kampong Ayer

√ for a hassle-free experience, you may also book a half day city & water village tour in brunei , and learn more about its cultural history..

7. See the Proboscis Monkeys at the Mangroves along Brunei River

8. Visit Istana Nurul Iman Palace

9. Meet the Royal Family of Brunei during Hari Raya

I met and shook hands with HM Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and the members of the royal family of #Brunei. 🇧🇳 Check out my new post on the blog WWW.PINOYADVENTURISTA.COM for more photos. A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Jun 17, 2018 at 12:01am PDT

10. Wander, Eat and Shop at The Mall Gadong

11. Visit Teng Yun Temple

12. Take a photo of Perpuspaan Main Gate 1968

13. Have a Taste of the Local Dishes

14. Souvenir Shopping

15. Enjoy the sunset

There you have it! My 15 Top Best Things to do in Brunei Darussalam! Enjoy, have fun and discover the best of Brunei! Now, let's prepare our Brunei DIY itinerary.

√ for a hassle-free experience, i highly recommend booking these tours:.

• Brunei Half Day City Tour in Bandar Seri Begawan
• Brunei Water Village Tour
• Proboscis Monkey Encounter Tour
• Half Day City & Water Village Tour

SAMPLE DIY BRUNEI ITINERARY 3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS

Day 1 - arrival in brunei.

• 08:45 PM - Depart from Manila
• 11:05 PM - Estimated arrival in Brunei. Change money, clear immigration and customs.
• 11:40 PM - Take a taxi/private car to your hotel ($25 BND / 2 = 12.50 BND per person) .
• 12:00 MN - Check-in at the hotel and sleep

Total Expenses: $12.50 BND or 483.50 PHP per person

Day 2 - meet the royal family + city tour part 1.

• 05:00 AM - Wake up. Prepare.
• 06:00 AM - Depart for Bandar. Take bus 01 to Bandar bus station ($1 BND) .
• 06:20 AM - Arrive at Bandar bus station. Take bus "Jalan Istana" ($2 BND) .
• 06:40 AM - Arrive at Istana Nurul Iman Palace.
• 07:00 AM - Line up to go inside the palace.
• Have breakfast inside the palace
• Meet and shake hands with the royal family
• 12:00 NN - Go out of the palace.
• 12:15 PM - Take a bus back to Bandar bus station ($2 BND) .
• 12:35 PM - Have lunch at the city center ($7 BND) .
• 01:30 PM - Visit Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
• 03:00 PM - Visit other spots in the city such as the park and waterfront, Perpuspaan Main Gate 1968 and Teng Yun Temple.
• 05:00 PM - Enjoy the sunset.
• 05:40 PM - Go to Bandar bus station and take bus 01 to your hotel ($1 BND) .
• 06:10 PM - Back at the hotel .
• 07:00 PM - Dinner ($7 BND)

Total Expenses: $20 BND or 773.60 PHP per person

Day 3 - city tour part 2, shopping and departure.

• 07:00 AM - Prepare your bags for early check-out. Leave bags at the hotel .
• 08:00 AM - Take bus 01 to Bandar bus station ($1 BND) .
• 08:20 AM - Arrive at the bus station, have breakfast nearby ($7 BND) .
• 09:00 AM - Walk to the waterfront.
• 09:15 AM - Hire a boat to tour you along Brunei River. Visit Kampong Ayer, see Proboscis Monkeys and visit the Mangroves ($20 BND / 2 = 10 BND per person) .
• 10:30 AM - Back at the waterfront. Walk to Royal Regalia Museum.
• 11:00 AM - Explore Royal Regalia Museum.
• 12:00 NN - Have lunch ($7 BND) .
• 01:00 PM - Go to the bus station and take bus 01 and alight at Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque ($1 BND) .
• 01:25 PM - Arrive at Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. Go inside and visit the mosque.
• 03:00 PM - Take bus 01 again and alight at The Mall Gadong ($1 BND) .
• 03:15 PM - Arrive at The Mall Gadong. Explore, buy souvenirs and pasalubong.
• 05:30 PM - Take bus 01 to your hotel ($1 BND) .
• 06:00 PM - Arrive at the hotel and pick-up your bags.
• 06:30 PM - Take a private car to the airport (ask the hotel to call a car for you) ($25 BND / 2 = 12.50 BND per person) .
• 07:00 PM - Arrive at the airport and have dinner ($10 BND) .
• 08:00 PM - Check-in for your flight.
• 11:25 PM - Depart Brunei.

Total Expenses: $50.50 BND or 1,953.34 PHP per person

BRUNEI TRIP BUDGET AND EXPENSES

• You will be traveling in a group of 2 and will be sharing the expenses.
• You'll be arriving late, so you will be taking the private car from the airport to your hotel.
• Going back to the airport for your departure, you'll also be taking a private car service.
• You'll be staying at Gina Suite for PHP 1,850 per night x 2 nights = PHP 3,640 / 2 = PHP 1,850 per person. Check room rates and availability here .

BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES

• Day 1 - ₱ 483.00
• Day 2 - ₱ 773.60
• Day 3 - ₱ 1,953.34
• Hotel - ₱ 1,850.00

TOTAL - ₱ 5,060.00 per person

Cheap flights to brunei, brunei travel tips and reminders for first-timers.

• Weather in Brunei is most of the time hot and humid. It is suggested that you wear light and breathable clothes , but not too revealing. Also, don't forget to bring light jacket, umbrella or raincoat for occasional rains.
• Bandar Seri Begawan is a very walkable city. If you chose to explore the city by foot, it is best to wear comfortable footwear or sandals that you can easily take off when entering the mosques.
• When visiting places of worship such as mosques, do not wear tank tops (or other sleeveless shirts), see-through shirts, or shorts. Before traveling to Brunei, be sure to pack your bags with clothes appropriate when visiting a mosque . For men, it is important to wear pants, short-sleeved shirts are okay. For women, you should cover your hair and arms, ankle-length skirts or pants are required. Always take off your shoes before entering a mosque.
• If you're visiting during Hari Raya and wants to meet the sultan, be sure to wear formal clothes.
• Drinking alcohol is prohibited in Brunei.
• Smoking is allowed, but in designated areas only. There is no allowance for bringing in cigarettes, each pack should be declared and taxed.
• The power plugs and sockets are of type G which has three rectangular blades in a triangular pattern and has an incorporated fuse. The standard voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. Don't forget to bring a Universal Adapter Plug so you could charge your gadgets. If you forgot to bring one, ask the reception of your hotel if you could borrow an adapter plug.
• Brunei is predominantly Muslim country. Do not bring any religious items and items (such as food or pornographic materials) that are prohibited in Islam.

BRUNEI VIDEO BLOG

You may also watch my brunei video blog below on you tube. please don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to my youtube channel salamat po... :).

I hope this Brunei travel guide blog help you in planning an amazing and memorable Brunei Darussalam trip! Plan your trip now to Brunei Darussalam! Enjoy!!!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 0 comments :, post a comment.

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

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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.

Reading continued…

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2 Days in Brunei (2024)

Go on a whirlwind adventure in Brunei’s serene and captivating realm, a hidden gem nestled on the island of Borneo. If you are pressed for time yet eager to experience the cultural richness and natural splendor this nation offers, this guide to 2 Days in Brunei for Busy Travelers is tailored just for you.

In this short but immersive journey, we’ll unveil the highlights, cultural treasures, and must-visit spots that will make your brief stay in Brunei a memorable and fulfilling escapade. Brunei has surprises in store for even the most time-conscious travelers, from majestic mosques to lush rainforests. Let’s make the most of every moment in this enchanting land.

“When is Brunei?” asked my friend. Brunei is a small nation located on the island of Borneo. It is renowned for the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque. Initially, I had planned to celebrate my birthday on the Malaysian side of Borneo. However, I found myself in Brunei instead due to a booking error. Despite the mix-up, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Brunei and would encourage everyone to explore this petite yet fascinating island in Southeast Asia.

PIN for later reference – 2 Days in Brunei

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

About Brunei

Brunei, officially known as the Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace, is a small yet culturally rich country on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. Surrounded by the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah, Brunei shares the island with Indonesia. Governed as an absolute monarchy under the rule of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Brunei is renowned for its opulent mosques, well-preserved Islamic architecture, and a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

Despite its small size, Brunei boasts a wealth of natural wonders, including dense rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. The country is also known for its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and maintaining a peaceful coexistence with its diverse population.

While oil and natural gas resources have played a significant role in Brunei’s economic development, the nation has successfully maintained a high standard of living for its citizens. Visitors to Brunei can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture, explore historical landmarks, and witness the Islamic traditions that contribute to the unique tapestry of this Southeast Asian jewel.

Best Time to Visit Brunei

The ideal time to explore Brunei is typically from January to May, when the weather is more favorable, with less rainfall and milder temperatures. During this period, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the attractions comfortably. Notably, the peak season, marked by increased tourist activity, falls between June and September. Travelers planning a visit during these months should be prepared for higher demand for accommodations and potentially warmer weather. Regardless of the chosen timeframe, Brunei offers a unique and enriching experience, combining cultural richness, natural beauty, and a serene atmosphere for busy travelers seeking a short yet fulfilling adventure.

How to Get to Brunei?

By Air – Traveling to Brunei is convenient, with frequent flights between Kuala Lumpur and Brunei. AirAsia , a budget-friendly airline, offers affordable flight options, allowing travelers to secure return tickets for as low as AUD 84.45. It’s important to note that this cost excludes the flight tickets between Kuala Lumpur and Sydney. With accessible and reasonably priced air travel options, visiting Brunei becomes more feasible for those seeking a short and budget-friendly getaway.

Local Transportation in Brunei

Efficient public transport is crucial for a smooth travel experience, especially for budget-conscious backpackers like myself. However, during my travels in Brunei, I observed that the public transport system in the country was not as robust as I had hoped. While this might pose a challenge for those relying on affordable and frequent transportation options, it also opens up opportunities for alternative modes of exploration. Exploring Brunei may require a bit more planning and consideration for transportation. However, with the right approach, travelers can still navigate the country effectively and enjoy its unique experiences.

Page Contents

Brunei’s public transport system primarily relies on buses, with services commencing at 11 AM. Interestingly, the country is renowned for its affordability in car ownership, resulting in a high rate of car ownership among the locals. Although the bus schedule may not align with the convenience travelers are accustomed to, I discovered a route map for Brunei’s public transport online.

Regrettably, the bus routes did not suit my travel itinerary during this visit, but I am considering exploring this option during my next venture in Brunei. Despite the limited public transport, the prevalence of affordable cars provides an alternative means for locals and visitors to navigate the picturesque landscapes of Brunei.

While the below bus route map may not be beneficial for those needing to reach the airport before 11 AM, it is noteworthy that bus fares in Brunei are incredibly economical, priced at just Brunei $1 per person. Despite the limited early morning options, the affordability of bus transportation can be a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers exploring the charming attractions of Brunei.

Exploring Brunei’s transportation options reveals the taxi system as an alternative, albeit with its challenges. The cost of a taxi from the city to the airport ranges from Brunei $15-20. However, the taxi fleet is limited, with only around 50 taxis available, making securing one challenging. To address this, the government has introduced a mobile application called DART . It’s important to note that activating the app requires a PIN sent to a registered phone number. While the app may pose difficulties for those with non-local phone numbers, the friendly locals are usually willing to assist. It’s worth mentioning that taxi transactions are conducted exclusively in cash.

If other transportation options prove challenging, booking a taxi online emerges as a viable alternative. It’s important to note that this option requires booking, with reservations made at least 24 hours before the desired time. While local transportation poses some challenges, the city’s compact size allows for easy exploration on foot. Many shops and key sightseeing destinations are nearby, facilitating convenient and enjoyable walks around the city.

Things To Do in Brunei

Before delving into the details, it’s essential to acknowledge that Brunei is a small country with limited attractions. However, the available activities can be broadly categorized into two main aspects: scuba diving and sightseeing. Whether you’re drawn to the underwater wonders or prefer exploring the cultural and scenic facets of the country, Brunei offers a unique blend of experiences for visitors.

Scuba Diving

Brunei boasts several captivating wreck sites, making it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of wreck diving. To gain more insights into the intriguing underwater world of Brunei, refer to my comprehensive guide on scuba diving in Brunei . Keep in mind that specific wreck sites necessitate an Advanced level PADI scuba diver certification. However, with my open-water scuba diver certification, I explored the fascinating dolphin wreck, which provided a fulfilling diving experience.

Scuba Diving Provider Details

• Provider name: Oceanic Quest
• Cost: Brunei $100 + $40 + $50
• Contact details:

Oceanic Quest Sdn Bhd

• PADI 5 Star Center (S 22803)
• Oceanic Quest Travel and Tour Company
• No. 6 & 6A, Simpang 46, Jalan Perusahaan,
• Serasa, Muara BT1928
• Negara Brunei Darussalam
• Tel: +6732771190
• Mobile: +6738933110
• Website: www.oceanicquest.com

Famous Buildings and Sight-seeing Places

Brunei is adorned with numerous mosques and magnificent structures, each surpassing the other in beauty. Some noteworthy landmarks include:

• Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque – Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is a magnificent Islamic architectural marvel located in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. Completed in 1958, the mosque is named after Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the 28th Sultan of Brunei, and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. The mosque’s design blends Mughal and Malay architectural styles, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The mosque serves not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Brunei’s Islamic heritage and cultural identity. Visitors to Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque are welcome to admire its architectural beauty, explore the peaceful surroundings, and experience the spiritual atmosphere that pervades this sacred site.
• Istana Nurul Iman – Istana Nurul Iman is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, located in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city. It is one of the largest residential palaces in the world, covering an extensive area on the banks of the Brunei River. “Istana Nurul Iman” translates to “Palace of the Light of Faith.” While the palace’s interior is not regularly open to the public, visitors can appreciate the exterior’s grandeur from designated viewpoints. The palace stands as a symbol of Brunei’s royal heritage and commitment to preserving its cultural identity.
• Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque – Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque was built to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the reign of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the current Sultan of Brunei. Construction began in 1988 and was completed in 1992. The mosque is located in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city of Brunei. It is situated on a scenic site overlooking the Brunei River. While primarily a place of worship, Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is open to the public, allowing visitors to admire its architecture and cultural significance. Visitors are required to dress modestly, with appropriate attire provided at the mosque.
• Brunei History Centre – The Brunei History Centre, also known as Pusat Sejarah Brunei, is a government agency in Brunei responsible for documenting, researching, and disseminating information about the history of Brunei. The center is crucial in preserving Brunei’s historical records, artifacts, and cultural heritage. Visitors interested in Brunei’s history and culture may find the center to be a valuable resource.
• Billionth Barrel Monument – The Billionth Barrel Monument is a monument erected to mark the achievement of reaching the production milestone of one billion barrels of oil in Brunei. This landmark symbolizes the importance of the oil and gas industry to Brunei’s economy and development.
• Tasek Merimbun – Tasek Merimbun is a captivating natural attraction in Brunei, offering visitors a serene escape into the heart of nature. Situated in the Tutong District of Brunei, encompassing the serene Merimbun Lake, Tasek Merimbun is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including various species of birds, insects, and aquatic life.
• Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum – The Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum is a captivating testament to the nation’s maritime heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its seafaring history. The museum showcases Brunei’s rich maritime history, highlighting its prowess in navigation, trade, and seafaring adventures. Visitors can expect an engaging and enlightening journey through Brunei’s maritime past, complemented by knowledgeable guides and informative displays.
• Pantai Seri Kenangan – Pantai Seri Kenangan, often called Seri Kenangan Beach, is a picturesque coastal retreat in Brunei that beckons travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Pantai Seri Kenangan is renowned for its breathtaking sunset views, painting the sky in warm hues as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Mercu Dirgahayu 60 – Mercu Dirgahayu 60, also known as the Independence Monument, is a prominent landmark in Brunei commemorating the nation’s journey to independence. Erected to celebrate the 60th birthday of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, the monument holds profound historical and cultural importance.

Exploring these sites offers a glimpse into Brunei’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Ulu Temburong National Park

Ulu Temburong National Park is a pristine rainforest reserve in Brunei’s Temburong District. It is known for its rich biodiversity, lush tropical vegetation, and the opportunity it provides for visitors to experience the wonders of a primary rainforest ecosystem.

Visitors to the park can engage in activities such as jungle trekking, bird watching, and experiencing the unique flora and fauna. The journey to the park is an adventure involving river travel and immersion in the natural beauty of Brunei.

2 Days in Brunei

I spent just two days in Brunei, and surprisingly, it was enough to explore this compact nation. Here’s the itinerary I followed:

Day 1 – Sight-Seeing

Spend your first-day sightseeing and exploring the local attractions.

• Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
• Istana Nurul Iman
• Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
• Brunei History Centre
• Billionth Barrel Monument
• Tasek Merimbun
• Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum
• Pantai Seri Kenangan
• Mercu Dirgahayu 60

Day 2 – Scuba Dive or Ulu Temburong National Park

Embark on an exhilarating adventure on your second day in Brunei by delving into the mesmerizing underwater world. Discover the beauty of Brunei’s submerged realm, featuring captivating wrecks and vibrant reefs that beckon scuba enthusiasts. I strongly recommend embracing the unique scuba diving experience to witness the underwater wonders, immersing yourself in the rich marine life that graces Brunei’s coastal waters. Unveil the hidden treasures beneath the surface and create unforgettable memories as you explore the captivating realms of the deep during your second day in this enchanting destination.

If you are not into scuba diving, head to Ulu Temburong National Park. Access to Ulu Temburong National Park involves a journey by boat and longboat, followed by a climb up the Canopy Walkway or a trek through the forest. The park is in the remote and relatively undeveloped Temburong District, making it a unique and ecologically important area.

What to Wear in Brunei?

Respect Brunei’s Islamic culture by dressing modestly throughout your visit. It is recommended to adhere to their cultural norms and avoid wearing revealing or short clothing, especially when entering mosques. While some locals may don shorts or dresses, I opted for jeans and t-shirts to ensure cultural sensitivity. Embrace the local customs, cover yourself appropriately, and respect Brunei’s traditions by choosing attire that aligns with their cultural expectations, particularly when visiting religious sites like mosques.

Where to Stay in Brunei?

As a budget-conscious traveler, I opted for affordable accommodation at EZ Lodgings . The two-night stay for two people cost AUD 89.20. While the hostel wasn’t luxurious, I’ve encountered worse during my travels. Its proximity to a shopping center and various restaurants was convenient.

Although relatively neat, the room shared toilets and a kitchen among guests, which weren’t in pristine condition. Despite these shared facilities, the overall experience was satisfactory for a budget stay, providing a practical base for exploring Brunei on a cost-effective budget.

If you love a comfortable and luxurious stay, consider staying at Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam , Garden Sentral Hotel , Parkview Hotel , and The Empire Brunei .

What to Eat in Brunei?

How often do you find yourself craving Indian cuisine while on a trip? The yearning for familiar flavors is a constant during extended travels. I firmly believe that good food enhances the overall travel experience. Thus, my ritual involves documenting Indian restaurants in every country I visit.

Brunei, not a top tourist destination, left me uncertain about its culinary offerings. Surprisingly, I discovered many Indian restaurants, and locals particularly enjoyed dishes like dosa. This was a delightful revelation for someone like me, constantly on the move and longing for Indian flavors.

During my brief stay, I managed to try two of them. Tandoor, conveniently within walking distance from Mall Gadong, offered slightly pricier but delicious food, complemented by friendly staff. Maharani, situated a bit farther from the city, provided a more affordable dining experience with a dhaba ambiance and flavorful dishes cooked by a Calcutta native. The Malai Kebab at Maharani is a must-try for chicken lovers. These experiences left me eager to explore more of Brunei’s diverse Indian culinary offerings.

Tandoor Indian Restaurant

One notable Indian restaurant I tried in Brunei was Tandoor, conveniently located within walking distance from Mall Gadong. While the prices were slightly higher, the delectable taste made it worth the expense. The staff’s friendliness added to the positive experience. The overall cost for two people was around Brunei $50, making it a reasonable choice for those looking to savor authentic Indian flavors in Brunei.

• Address : Unit Number 3 & 4 First Floor (I-Mart Upstairs) Bangunan Majid Mohamad Spg. 235-7, Jln. Pasar Baharu Kg. Kiarong BE1318 Negara Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.

Maharani Indian Restaurant

Maharani, another Indian restaurant I explored in Brunei, offers a unique dhaba ambiance and is a bit farther from the city. However, the reasonable prices and fresh and flavorful food make it an excellent choice. The cook hails from Calcutta, adding an authentic touch to the dishes. One highly recommended option is their Malai Kebab, especially for chicken enthusiasts. With an affordable cost of around Brunei $24 for two people, Maharani is an appealing option for those seeking a taste of Indian cuisine in Brunei.

• Address : Simpang 812, Kampong Tanah Jambu, Jalan Muara, Muara BU1129, Brunei.

How Much Does It Cost for 2 Days in Brunei?

During my two-day trip to Brunei, I managed to keep my expenses in check. The significant costs included accommodation, transportation, food, and sightseeing. I opted for a budget-friendly hostel, EZ Lodgings, which cost AUD 89.20 for two nights for two people. Transportation expenses were minimal, as I explored the city mainly on foot due to limited public transport options.

Food costs were reasonable, with two Indian restaurant visits. Tandoor, near Mall Gadong, amounted to around Brunei $50 for two people, offering delicious albeit slightly pricier options. Maharani, a more affordable choice farther from the city, costs approximately Brunei $24 for two people.

Overall, my two-day budget-friendly exploration of Brunei allowed me to enjoy the essentials without breaking the bank.

• Flights between KL and Brunei – AUD 84.45 (Brunei $79)
• Accommodation – AUD 89.20 (Brunei $83.46)
• Food – Brunei $75
• Scuba diving – Brunei $190
• Taxi – Brunei $50
• VISA – Brunei $20
• Miscellaneous – Brunei $100

Total expenses = Brunei $597.46.

Closing Notes

Brunei left a positive impression on me during my short visit. While it might not be a primary destination for a dedicated trip, it serves as an excellent pit stop while exploring Southeast Asia. The country offers valuable insights into Islamic culture, making it a unique addition to any travel itinerary. Despite its small size, Brunei boasts beautiful mosques, historic sites, and welcoming locals. I recommend including Brunei in your travel plans, especially if you seek a culturally enriching regional experience.

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Two Budget Travelers

Travelers of the World on a Budget

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BRUNEI Itinerary for 3 Days | Brunei Travel Guide

BRUNEI ITINERARY for 3 Days | Travel Guide

Contributed by:  reginald marshal fernandez, brunei | the land of unexpected treasures.

Arrival at the airport 10 pm Picked up by the hotel owner. Villa Dadap (for free included upon check in)

WHERE TO STAY IN BRUNEI   [BOOKING]

7 am complimentary breakfast 9 am start of tour Empire hotel Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque 12 nn Lunch Tour at The Mall Brunei 2 pm Royal Regalia Museum 4 pm Back to hotel for rest freshen up. 6 pm Dinner and Visit to Gadong Night Market (where you can find very cheap local delicacies) may mga malalapit din na bilihan ng pasalubong along Gadong market.  BRUNEI Itinerary

7 am Complimentary breakfast 8 am Visit to Brunei River. River cruise and boat rental kasama na un sa tour package namin na 80BND Ang ganda at very peaceful ang maging experience namin dto 12 noon Visit to sultan omar ali mosque 2 pm Lunch 3:30 pm Visit to Brunei Maritime Museum 5 pm Bilihan ng mga pasalubong 6 pm Back to hotel to freshen up 8 pm to 11 pm Dinner and visit to Jerudong Park. (Mga bes kung gusto niyo na makita lang ang place and take a selfie, 2BND ang entrance pag ride all you can and play all you can, satin mga foreigners 20BND ang entrance)

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Lakwatserang Ligaw

A personal blog of Manchueta Sol, a proud Filipina who loves to eat, travel and sleep. A wanderer who likes to discover and explore new places. Can be adventurous if she wanted to. Always excited to leave but looking forward to go back home. She loves to travel outside of the country, but she always longed to go back to her home country. The home where her heart was left behind. Join me as I make meaningful memories one travel at a time!

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Brunei Darussalam 3 Days & 2 Nights Itinerary

11 comments:

Hello, I just wanted to ask if the itenerary above is the one you showed in the customs at the airport before departing to brunei? coz im having a hard time to figure out what to write in my 7 days itenerary that the customs will like and let me go there ^_^

Hi Maria, wow you have 7 days to explore Brunei?! Make sure you visit all the interesting places there. Anyway, are you referring to the immigration? I did not show them our itinerary, the old man at the window where I was called only asked for the hotel booking confirmation and that's that. It was actually my first time to travel out of the country and I was worried about the immigration, but he didn't give me a hard time. My friend warned me about them being not pleasant so I was expecting a long interview or something. Not sure if because I had a big smile when I was called, the old man in the window even smiled back at me. Just be natural when you're called and smile even if they don't. If you need help with your itinerary, just let me know :) Enjoy Brunei!

Oh only the hotel confirmation? Wow thats simple :) , actually its my 2nd out of the country trip the first one was in hongkong but then I was not worried before because the trip was arranged through the travel agency but now going to brunei I did not because its too expensive 20k each person, thats why I booked it independently and im really having a hard time :( . And also Their buses wont work when it strikes 6pm? What if im still in the mall that time and didnt know the time so what will I ride back to the hotel?

Are you traveling alone? If yes, it might be expensive if you rent a car to tour you around. Where are you staying? I asked because if you are staying at the centre of Bandar Seri Begawan, then my advice, go to the farthest attraction in the morning so by afternoon you will be in the attraction near the hotel and you can just walk. You can check my other posts (day 1 to day 3) for the attractions so you'll have an idea. I also included a map there so you will see which one is the farthest and the nearest. Hope it helps.

Sorry, it's this post: http://www.lakwatserangligaw.com/2016/09/30-things-to-see-do-in-brunei-muara.html

No, im travelling together with my family and we will be staying at qing yun resthouse in gadong and actually I copied your itinerary because it is so perfect. Great job (y) ����

Glad I could be of help. For more additional helpful information, please visit http://www.lakwatserangligaw.com/2016/10/negara-brunei-darussalam-my-first-out.html. Also, you might want to contact Jubilee Hotel to get the contact details of their Driver, Muhamar for the tour around Brunei. He only charges minimal compare to hotel's service. Enjoy!

Sure,thank you so much ^^ and btw did you wear shorts in brunei? coz its like its so hot there and do we really need to wear jeans? :(

No, I didn't. I wore jeans on our 3 days visit there. It's really hot, but I still wore it. I also carry a scarf around just in case I need to cover my face when visiting a mosque or other religious sites. We've met one Filipina there and she's wearing a tokong and 3/4 sleeve blouse, but other than that, I didn't see anyone wearing shorts. Brunei is a Muslim country, and unlike the neighboring country Malaysia, they are more conservative when it comes to dress code. Bring something to cover your face just in case you have to. For Do's and Dont's in Brunei, please visit: http://www.lakwatserangligaw.com/2015/12/brunei-darussalam-dos-donts.html

Hi Mam, ask lang po about transportation ano po ma advise nyo sakin? from airport to jubilee hotel and roaming around BSB? thank you.

Oh, thanks so much for sharing your itinerary. It's really detailed and useful for those who intend to visit this country. I feel nothing special there other than the magnificent mosques.

Thank you for reading! Please share and like my Facebook page :)

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BRUNEI IN ONE DAY – UNMISSABLE THINGS TO DO

UPDATED MARCH - 2024

Brunei in one day, is it worth it? It is for many unknown destinations and a bit different than the rest of Asia. So if you want to get away from tourism and get to know another side of Southeast Asia, Brunei is worth the time.

I have been planning to visit Brunei for a long time, but it wasn’t easy to get there as it is not on the route for most airlines and the flights were expensive. So while planning our winter trip to Southeast Asia, I plan to fly straight to the Philippines to visit the family and spend Christmas with them.

As we have three weeks, I wanted to combine the trip with India and Brunei before flying to the  Philippines . The plan was only to stay for three nights in New Delhi, just to experience the Indian culture. But the entire program was changed and became twelve days in India .

So after reviewing the itinerary, we only have one night left for Brunei. I tried abbreviating the itinerary to add more nights in  Bandar Seri Begawan . Unfortunately, we will miss Christmas I have a plan with the family. I don’t want to skip Brunei now that we’re so close to it. So I was struggling when making the itinerary to include Brunei. I’ll be disappointed if we can’t make it this time, but I managed to squeeze in the itinerary.

Flights to Brunei

There are not many airlines flying to Brunei; if you find one it’s pretty expensive. I booked a ticket with Qatar Airways for India and the Philippines, but looking at their price for Brunei is horrendously too much.

So we flew with  Air Asia – they were the cheapest airline to Brunei. It is not the first time we have flown with Air Asia and never had any problems, but this time it crosses my line to never again fly with this airline.

Our schedule has changed many times typical for budget airlines and on short notice. They are cheap but unreliable, and there is not much you can do. Also, it wasn’t a direct flight; we had a six-hour layover in Kuala Lumpur, so we lost an entire day on the trip. 

That said, whether you pay for expensive or cheap tickets, it doesn’t matter. One thing I can say, after the misery, it is still worth a trip! I’ve been dreaming of Brunei for a long time. Of course, not everyone has Brunei on their list, so for me, it is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. 

Tourist Visa for Brunei

I haven’t thought about the tourist visa when planning this trip. My thought was like going to   UAE  or  Qatar ; because we can enter the country without a prior visa. 

We were at the check-in counter in New Delhi while they were printing our boarding passes. Suddenly the staff asked for our visa. I’m surprised! My answer was, do we need a tourist visa with a Belgium passport? I’ve never been jolted once during my trip. 

I thought we were not going to make it to Brunei. And while he’s tagging our bags, I’m doing a quick search on my phone. However, he doesn’t know either if we need a visa or not. 

So before handing us the boarding pass, he asked someone to look into their system. He came back and gave us the boarding pass. Apparently, Belgium nationals don’t need a prior visa to travel to Brunei . But receive a tourist visa on arrival for free and can stay for three months . For other foreign nationals,  check here if your nationality is on the list. And if not, you need a visa before entering Brunei.

The Facts about Brunei

Brunei is known as one of the wealthiest countries in the world. The benefits of this wealth are the residents do not have to pay taxes. Education and health care are free for everyone. Therefore Bruneians have a happy life, friendly and honest people.

You don’t have to worry about  crime ,  scams , and  thieves .  Visitors can freely move all day and night without being vigilant – Brunei is a very safe country.

Since a few years ago, the capital has been implementing a car-free every Sunday morning.  The government’s initiative to promote a healthy lifestyle so families can enjoy walking or biking: A lot is going on a Sunday morning in Bandar Seri Begawan. As for visitors, you can take this opportunity to enjoy the city without cars.

No drinking alcohol and ban smoking!

Brunei is a rigorous Islamic land. Some may find it a boring country because there’s no nightlife. Additionally, drinking alcohol and smoking are prohibited. Nevertheless, nobody forbids anyone from drinking inside their house or hotel room.

But somehow, you must bring the alcohol from somewhere there is no alcohol available throughout the country.

Furthermore, you will notice that the capital is very clean. I haven’t seen any waste on the ground. Bruneians have the orderliness to keep their city clean. Cigarette butts are the number one cause of dirt on the terrain.

Smoking in Brunei is prohibited. There are designations about fines everywhere! The infringement cost 300 BND for the first time – the second offense is 500 BND – which is quite a lot of money. Although smoking is prohibited in the country, locals still conceal smoking. Just don’t get caught!

What visitors wear in Brunei?

I find Brunei living in the present time, compared to other Islamic countries like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Although Brunei is an Islamic land, not everyone wears it according to tradition, which reminds me of Lebanon .

I see women and men wearing long pants and a T-shirt; Short pants are also adequate but should be beyond the knee. Besides, nobody judges you on what to wear.

But if you genuinely respect the culture, avoid revealing attire if you don’t want to get attention from people. Brunei has a tropical climate and sweltering all year round. When we were there in December, the temperature was above 30 degrees. So the message – packing light garments!

How expensive the food in Brunei?

Prices in Brunei are higher than their surrounding countries – comparable to Singapore. For a less expensive meal, if you’re not fussy, indulge a delicious food inside the food court at  Yayasan Shopping Mall . It’s a place to mingle with locals.

Like any other Asian country, Brunei has street food but is not as big as compared to the one in Bangkok. You can get a cheap bite for 1 dollar, uh, I mean Bruneian dollar. 

They also have fast-food restaurants like KFC and Mc Donalds. It may be strange that you don’t see many restaurants in the City center. However, the first one you see might be a little too pricey. 

How about accommodations?

There are no extensive choices of accommodations in the capital. And the prices of the hotels are a little bit more compared to other Asian countries. I compared the accommodation prices to Saudi Arabia which were horrendously expensive. But if you do a lot of research, you’ll be lucky to find an affordable room.

I book our room six months before the trip. You will find it below on this blog. The room was in promotion, booking and pay immediately and no cancellation or refund. So it’s a go-go price – take it or leave it.

Travelers with a tight budget will have a hard time finding cheap rooms. It is just not accustomed for people to pay a hundred dollars hotel room in Southeast Asia. Just don’t wait until the last minute to book the room.

Get around and Public transport

Sad to say that public transport in Brunei is practically non-existent, a taxi is limited. If you want a taxi ride, you need to phone or ask someone to call for you. The people were super helpful and friendly.

Besides, every resident owns a car; some will gladly give you a ride for a small fee. Despite anything, Bandar Seri Begawan is a tiny city. Most tourist attractions are within walking distance except for the sultan’s palace. You need a car or ask some local to drive you there.

Getting from the airport to city center

Most hotels have surcharge shuttles, but I ignored that. I thought we’d easily find a bus or a taxi at the airport. But there weren’t many taxis outside. 

The local bus is very cheap at 1 BND . You’ll find the bus stop on the left side towards the end of the arrival building. 

The  green bus  numbers  23, 24, 36,38  will take you to the city bus terminal. The trip takes about 30 minutes. And from the bus terminal, you can walk or change to another bus. The public buses operate from 6:00 AM to 600 PM.

Brunei in one day unmissable things to do!

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

The mosque is the most well-known landmark of Bandar Seri Begawan. The majestic building is visible from a great distance with its golden domes.

This prayer house was opened in 1958 and named after the 28th sultan of the country. Non-muslims visitors are allowed to enter a small area inside, which leads you into the center of the room. Free entry!

Hours: Monday 8:30am–12pm, 1:30–3pm, 4:30–5:30pm Tuesday 8:30am–12pm, 1:30–3pm, 4:30–5:30pm Wednesday 8:30am–12pm, 1:30–3pm, 4:30–5:30pm Thursday 8:30am–12pm, 1:30–3pm, 4:30–5:30pm Friday 4:30–5:30 pm Saturday 4:30–5:30 pm Sunday 8:30am–12pm, 1:30–3pm, 4:30–5:30pm

Royal Regalia Museum

For curiosity about the royal family’s wealth and gifts, visit the Royal Regalia Museum. It is a glittering place with an impressive display. Rooms were filled with precious items presented to the various sultans over the centuries. 

Notice!  You’ll have to remove your shoes outside, and your belongings must deposit in a locker. Photography is strictly prohibited; even the phone is not allowed inside. However, after the visit, you can take photographs in the hallway. The museum is free admittance!

Monday 9 am–5 pm – Tuesday 9 am–5 pm-

Wednesday 9 am–5 pm – Thursday 9 am–5 pm

Friday 9–11:30 am, 2:30–5 pm – Saturday 9 am–5 pm

Sunday 9 am–5 pm

A stroll to the riverfront p ark

If coming out of the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, walk behind the building. Sooner or later, you will come to the park — an excellent area for a walk with broad ways along the Sungai Kedayan River.

As you continue walking through the viewing platform of the bridge, you have a panoramic view of Kampong Ayer. One of the best spots to see the houses on stilts.

Don’t forget to look at the other side – the mosque from a great distance. If the weather permits, this is the right place for a beautiful sunset if you come here late in the afternoon. If you haven’t been to Kampong Ayer yet, go down to the bridge and come to the quay where boats are going to the village.

Kampong Ayer, a village built on stilts

A large part of the population in Bandar Seri Begawan lives in a village. Many people have their homes in the city center but still spend an amount of time in Kampong Ayer. 

It is a place to spend a few hours just wandering around to see how people live in the water — the walkways connected through the houses are like a maze of alleys.  

Some houses may look rugged on the outside but nicely decorated on the inside. They have schools, mosques, a hospital, shops, restaurants, and a fire station.

To get there : walk to the waterfront; you’ll see the boatmen waiting for people. It only cost 1 BND crossing to Kampong Ayer. A boat tour cost 20 BND for 30 minutes, but we got it for 15 dollars after negotiating the price.

Istana Nurul Iman, home of the sultan

The Istana Nurul Iman is the palace of the Sultan – the most significant attraction in Brunei. Our schedule was packed, but this was a priority on my list. You can’t go inside, so it takes less than five minutes to see it. 

Like any other palaces in the world, it is also heavily guarded, and the tourists come just to have a selfie in front of the gate.

Three days a year, after the month of Ramadan, the door is opened to the public. The Sultan and his wife personally greet the visitors one by one. Thus, if you happen to visit Brunei at this time of year, take the opportunity.

To get there:  The palace is 4 km outside the city. If you can’t find a taxi, ask locals to take you there in a car. We give a guy 10 dollars for bringing us to the palace.

Where to stay in Brunei

Where is Brunei? The capital city of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan, is not as big as any other Asian city and is also not a very popular destination, so I can understand why their accommodation is limited. So if you plan a trip, search for your hotel room in advance.

We stayed at The  Brunei Hotel   – located in the capital’s city center. This hotel is on the list at  Booking.com , so check them out. 

This is an ideal location within walking distance of everything. The bus station is just a few meters away, very convenient if you take the bus to and from the airport. By the way, the hotel offers airport service for 20 BND one way. 

They have excellent, friendly staff and are very helpful. Although the room is simple – it was nice and clean with free wifi, tea, and coffee facilities. 

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Weekend in Brunei – Itinerary, Travel Costs & Tips

If you are a Filipino, the most popular travel destinations in Asia would be Hong Kong , Singapore , Thailand , Cambodia , Japan and South Korea to name a few. But if there is one country that I would want you to include in your Asian bucket list, it would be Brunei.

• Experience the Best of Brunei’s Hospitality from Badi’Ah Hotel
• List of the Best Budget Hotels in Brunei
• 10 Backpacking Destinations You Probably Never Considered
• Complete List of Visa-Free Countries For Philippines Passport Holder (and Visa on Arrivals)
• 9 Easiest and Visa-Free Countries to Visit for Filipinos – my ASEAN Travel Tips!

This tiny country has a lot to offer to its visitors. The architecture, the food, the culture and most especially their locals who are extremely kind, would make your stay one of the best! In my case, I stayed for just a day and have seen a lot of great sights. If time permits, I would definitely go back, stay for few more days and explore the rest of the country. I suggest that you stay in Brunei for at least 3 days and 2 nights.

For Filipinos, it would be such a breeze to go to Brunei. After all, we can stay here visa – free as long as we stay for not more than 14 days. With the size of the country, 14 days should be enough for you to go around, immerse and appreciate Brunei.

Table of Contents

How to get to Brunei from Manila

There are multiple ways on how you can get to Brunei from Manila. Here are some of those.

• Non – Stop Flight from Manila
• Layover in Singapore
• Layover in Kuala Lumpur

Most of you would choose a non – stop flight, right? I totally understand. But for me, there’s even a better idea. Why not choose a flight which has a layover and have a glimpse of a totally different country?

AirAsia has one of the best rates for flights going to Brunei. They even have a great lounge to stay at when you are having a layover in Kuala Lumpur.

Where I stayed in Brunei?

I was fortunate enough to have been accommodated by one of Brunei’s premier hotels, Badi’Ah . This property is just 15 minutes away from the international airport. The rooms are very elegant and the staff is commendable. Since public transportation is not easy in Brunei, the hotel arranged my transportation that allowed me to go to the city with such a breeze. Once you are in the city, you can just easily walk everywhere.

If you’re on a budget, you can check this list of budget hotels in Brunei .

Free Things you can do in Brunei

If you know me well, you’d probably notice that I am a thrift spender! If I can avoid spending too much, I would. So when I went to Brunei, I instantly fell in love with all the FREE places you can visit here.

• The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque – This is said to be one of the most beautiful mosques in the Asia Pacific. It would be a waste not to see it when you visit Brunei. And what makes this architecture beyond amazing? That would be its main dome that is covered in pure gold!

• Kampong Ayer – This is commonly known as the Water Village and has 39,000 people living in here. Some even call this as the Venice of the east. The Water Village in Brunei is said to be the most famous water settlement in the region.

• Gadong Night Market – The foodie travelers out there should not miss this popular Gadong Night Market. Get to taste local delicacies without going overboard your budget.

Oh, and if you miss eating at Jollibee, Brunei has different branches where you can satisfy your cravings for Chicken Joy! And yes, I had my lunch there.

Other Must Visit Places around Brunei

Since I had very limited time at hand, I was only able to visit few fascinating spots in Brunei. But if you will visit the country for few more days, here are some of the areas that must be included in your itinerary.

• Brunei Museum – The museum is just near the Capital where you can find a lot of Islamic art from the 16 th This is the largest in the country. I always recommend travelers to visit museums because it is one of the best ways to know the country’s origin and culture.

• Andulau Forest Reserve – There are a number of tour operators offering a package that includes Andulau Forest Reserve. Enjoy the amazing sights and the ambiance which is far more different from the city.
• Ulu Temburong National Park – This park is protected since 1991 and the first one that was established in the country. You can find here the unspoiled jungle which is also known as the ‘Green Jewel of Brunei’.
• Pekan Tutong – You might want to visit this humble town and see a different side of Brunei.
• Labi – Get to see this area where it is made up of several Kampongs or villages. Don’t forget to try out their limau labi.
• Tasek Merimbun – This is the largest lake in Brunei located in Mukim Rambai and is surrounded by the 7800 – hectare Tasek Merimbun Heritage park.
• Kuala Belait – This is the second largest town in the country where you can find other great tourist destinations. They have the Silver Jubilee Park, Menara Cendera Kenangan, Kuala Belait Boat Club and Tudong Saji market to name a few.

How much money do you need for a short weekend trip to Brunei?

Brunei is actually an expensive country to visit if you are to compare it with Thailand or our very own, Philippines. But as always, you can stretch your budget if you know where to get cheap accommodation and food. At an average, the daily cost per person would be USD 35.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Question about Traveling to Brunei

1. What are the languages used in Brunei?

Apart from Bruneian Malay, English and Chinese Mandarin are widely used.

2. When is the best time to visit Brunei?

The best month would be January or the first months of the year. Try not to go there by November and December.

3. What are t he type of foods in Brunei?

If you are fond of eating Chinese and Indian food, then you will have a lot of choices in Brunei. There are of course, western choices.

4. Should I drink tap water?

No. I recommend that you drink bottled water and use it even when you brush your teeth.

5. Are ATMs available in Brunei?

Yes, there are a lot of ATMs in the country. But make sure you avoid withdrawing cash at night.

6. Is it safe to travel to Brunei?

Yes, it is safe to travel around the country. However, it wouldn’t hurt if you are always alert.

7. Is tipping recommended in Brunei?

Tipping is not a common practice in the country.

8. Is internet connection good in Brunei?

There are a number of internet cafes in the capital. But in other parts of the country, it would be hard to find connection and it can be pretty expensive.

9. Can I haggle and bargain in Brunei?

This is not common in the markets of Brunei but you can always negotiate for taxi fare.

10. Should I bring my credit card in Brunei?

Always bring your card and some cash just in case there are no facilities to charge your credit card.

We partnered with AirAsia in making my Brunei trip possible. All opinions are based on my personal experience.

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13 thoughts on “ Weekend in Brunei – Itinerary, Travel Costs & Tips ”

Hi I’m Rei and Im a blogger to, I wanted to visit Brunei too, is it good for DIY solo travel?

Thanks for the info. We’re excited to go!

Oh finally! I found this blog. My husband and I are traveling on our bday month. So I needed some advice on where to go and what to do. Thanks!

This is great! Brunei will be my last country to complete my ASEAN countries tour. Though, I plan on staying for a week.

Great article… Any plans of coming to Srilanka ?

Been there in 2011! =)

Hi is in brunei need a visa? Thank you for the answer

it’s visa free for pinoys.

Hi! is it visa-free even if the purpose is business meetings?

Thank you for the information about BRUNEI.

I and my husband is planning to visit Brunei on our 38th wedding anniversary on June 06-08, 2018. We are fascinated to the beauty of the Sultans Palace and the National Park as rumored and published here.

I wish to know more about Muslim culture. Your article provided me interesting tips and cost estimation to plan a trip in Brunei. Expecting more from you.

whole heartily thank you for giving out valuable information

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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Monkey Rock World

Untamed travel on asia's hidden roads, the perfect 2 weeks borneo itinerary.

Rainforest shrouded in the morning mist. Tick. Giant apes and monkeys hooting in century-old canopies. Double tick. A river system you can explore at your own leisure. Tick. Fantastic unspoilt beaches that treasure some of Asia’s (and the world) best diving. Tick. It’s all in Borneo, and it’s all so easy to visit you will want to keep returning time and time again. Dig deep into our insider two weeks Borneo Itinerary.

Article Contents

Why I should Go to Borneo?

Borneo, the huge island set between West Malaysia and Sulawesi, is one of Southeast Asia’s great natural escapes and a world-class adventure travel destination that also offers some of Malaysia’s best short trips . We have been to Borneo multiple times over the past 10 years, and we always find new interesting places to visit in Borneo.

Why? We are seduced by Borneo hospitable peoples, and have made long-lasting friendships. We believe there’s no other place in Southeast Asia with a similar amount of wildlife — you must go to the Danum Valley Conservation Area  —, great hiking — check our ultimate guide to Tawau Hills Park — and potential for adventure.

READ MORE — Ultimate Borneo Backpacking Guide

Best time to Visit Borneo

The Dry Season in Borneo is from March to October when you’ll experience less rain. It’s the best time to see orangutans in the wild, but is also, of course, peak tourist season and prices can be higher.

The best time to Dive in Borneo is between April to December, with the best visibility in July and August. From March to May, whale sharks visit Borneo’s waters during their migrations. Remind that between June and September, turtles come to lay eggs at Lankayan Island.

The worst time to travel to Borneo is between December and January when the sea is choppy and there’s more rain — the worst time to see animals. Whenever you go, don’t forget to pack a pair of Adidas kampung , Malaysia’s best (and cheapest) hiking shoes.

A Fantastic Itinerary For Two Weeks in Borneo

We think that two weeks in Borneo are the absolute minimum time you need to get the lay of the land and make sense of this incredible island. With two weeks, you’ll limit yourself to visiting the highlights of the two Malaysian Borneo states of Sarawak and Sabah — and maybe do a quick stopover in Brunei.

Follow this Borneo two week itinerary to craft an absolutely engaging and awesome Borneo trip, but consider that an extra week will give you more time to savour the places, and of course, see much more.

Fear not because at the end of this two weeks Borneo itinerary we’ll give you some extra suggestions to fill up your extra time.

Two Weeks Borneo Itinerary Map

Kuching (3 nights)

Kuching is Sarawak’s capital and is a perfect place to start your itinerary in Borneo. Once the seat of the White Rajahs of Sarawak — a dynasty initiated by James Brooke, the British adventurer who came to Borneo and helped transform the headhunting tribes into an empire — Kuching today is an artsy river city with a sleepy yet infectious vibe.

There are cafes, music venues, tattoo parlours, historical sites, river walks, great street food, some worthy museums, and a choice of excellent accommodation. Kuching’s best advantage, however, is the fact it’s smack in the middle of a bunch of national parks. You may as well spend a full week here, but to the extent of this two weeks Borneo itinerary, we’ll give Kuching 3 days.

Semenggoh Orangutan Sanctuary – half day trip

One of Kuching’s top tourist attractions is the chance of seeing semi-wild orangutans in the rehabilitation center of Semenggoh, about a half-hour out of town. This is where you’ll definitely see orangutans — the number depends on your luck, as they come twice a day for feeding.

Feeding sessions start at 9 am and 3 pm, and you must time your visit with one or you won’t be able to see the animals. This experience is, of course, shared with other tourists and assisted by rangers, but it’s still pretty unique as you’ll get to see the orangutans from pretty up close. In a real jungle, you’d be extremely lucky to spot them far up in the canopy, hidden on top of high branches.

Sarawak State Museum

Established in 1888, Borneo’s oldest museum is a must-visit: the collection of taxidermies exposed here is really quirky and stunning, and includes some very rare specimens of tropical monkeys. Remember that some of these have been collected by Sir Alfred Russel Wallace himself!

The last time we visited in 2018, it seemed that the Sarawak State Museum was about to move to a new nearby building, but we can’t confirm. Please ask around in town before visiting.

Bako National Park (2 Days/1 Night)

Bako National Park is a stunning tropical rain forest set on a promenade jutting into the South China Sea. If that wasn’t enough convincing to visit, please learn that Bako is also the best place to see wild proboscis monkeys near Kuching city.

Visiting as a day trip is possible but really rushed: there are at least 12 different hiking circuits in this park. We recommend spending at least one night in the basic chalets at park headquarters to give yourself time to take in at least one of the longer hikes (you need a guide you can arrange at the park). Second, if you stay overnight you’ll be able to take a night walk. Bring a powerful torchlight to spot the birds, insects and spiders, and you can do this on your own and free of charge. A guide, of course, has a better-trained eye.

Book in Advance

As you are pressed for time, these are some suggested guided tours that may save you the hassle of planning activities by yourself in Kuching:

• Kuching City and Sarawak River Tour • Cycling Tour in Kuching • Kuching Bike and Food Tour • Kuching Chinese Heritage Tour , which includes a visit to the beautiful Hakka village of Siniawan, 40 minutes outside Kuching

Pro Tip : Unless you are interested in world music, avoid starting your trip in Kuching in July, when the Rainforest World Music Festival packs hotels and shoots the prices much higher.

Where to Stay in Kuching

Kuching has plenty of great accommodation options. We recommend one of these:

• Waterfront Kuching • Traveller Homestay • Le Nomade Hostel • Ranee Boutique Suites

Check more hotels and prices in Kuching

Mulu National Park via Miri (Day 4 to 7)

Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see eco-tourism destination, with some of the largest caves in the world. To visit, you should make your way to the city of Miri first.

Miri (Day 4)

In all honesty, with such a short time for your two weeks Borneo itinerary, Miri doesn’t deserve more than the one night after you arrive by plane from Kuching. Go see Canada Hill before dinner, where you’ll find Miri’s Petroleum Museum. It’s not the reason you are here, the sunset views are. Back in the city center, you can have a bite at one of the restaurants and food courts located around the Boulevard Shopping Complex.

When in Miri, a good place to stay is Kingwood Boutique Hotel . Not super central, but really good value. For other Miri accommodation options and prices, see here .

Visit Mulu National Park (Day 5 to 7)

After Kuching, the ideal second stop in this two weeks Borneo itinerary is the incredible caves and trekking routes of Mulu National Park. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the best places to visit in Borneo — and in the whole of Southeast Asia, we think.

The cave system at Mulu is one of the largest in the whole world: the Deer Cave is just HUGE — 2km in length, the main chamber is 174mt-wide and 122mt-high, and it never gets smaller or shorter than 90mt. Quite impressive, isn’t it?

Getting to Mulu National Park these days is practically only possible by flying — you COULD get there by land using a 4WD and following the logging tracks, but it’s a long, impractical journey. Flights with MAS Wings are cheap and fun, as they use small planes.

Mulu deserves at least two nights, three or more if you want to hike to the Pinnacles . These limestone blades jut out of a mountaintop like razors, and going to see them is no walk in the park — you’ll be sent down if you can’t reach a designated point within the first half-hour. Don’t forget to round up your Mulu exploration with a boat trip to the Clearwater and Wind caves, and to watch the incredible bat exodus outside of the Deer Cave right before sunset.

Where to Stay in Miri and Mulu

• Shuang Ling Inn • Tabun Homestay • Mulu Marriott Resort • Mulu Backpackers Homestay • Mulu National Park

Check more accommodation options in Mulu and Miri

How to get from Kuching to Mulu National Park

The only cost-effective way to see Mulu is flying from Kuching to Miri first , spend a night there and then fly from Miri to Mulu early the next day. It’s best if you book a return ticket unless you want to continue hiking from the park to Lawas — something we don’t recommend if you intend following this two-weeks Borneo itinerary.

Brunei (Day 8 and 9)

Brunei doesn’t have a good reputation, we know, but it’s an absolutely interesting place to visit. It’s easy enough to get on a bus from Miri to Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, where you should at a minimum visit the Omar Ali Saifuddien and Jame’ Asr Hassanal Bolkiah Mosques, and take a walking tour of Kampung Air — it’s Southeast Asia’s biggest village on stilts.

These three activities should be enough for a day trip through Brunei, provided you leave Miri early enough. If you have more time, you should add a sunset visit to The Empire Brunei Hotel, the world’s first Seven Star property, built by the Sultan of Brunei. Some of past guests include President Bill Clinton and Pamela Anderson. The hotel has an ocean-facing swimming pool that’s a delight to stroll around waiting to bask in one of those unforgettable neon-pink Borneo sunsets — something you’ll never get bored of during your two weeks Borneo itinerary.

Brunei Side Trip: Ulu Temburong National Park

If you can add at least a day in Brunei consider taking a day trip to the Ulu Temburong National Park. Why? You can’t see more pristine tropical rainforest in all of Borneo. While Malaysia and Indonesia have kept profiting from legal (and mostly illegal) logging, Brunei has always enjoyed its wealth from drilling offshore petrol — so why bother about slogging inland to cut the forest?

For this reason, the woods of Ulu Temburong are some of the most pristine and oldest in the whole world — even older than the Amazon. The park has an interesting canopy walkway and observation tower. If you won’t see any wildlife, please seek the advice of a witch doctor.

Pro Tip: Brunei is a dry country — means you won’t find any alcohol. Truth be told, some Bruneians may have some at home and as a foreigner, you will be sold some for a price at high-end hotels. But is it really worth the hassle? Nope.

Where to Stay in Brunei

• Qing Yun Backpacker Lodge • Kunyit 7 Lodge • Taman Mawar • Bwn Bed Station is the cheapest and cleanest option, and include breakfast.

Check more hotels and prices in Brunei

How to get from Mulu to Brunei

Fly from Mulu to Miri and then catch a direct bus from Miri to Bandar Seri Begawan. International flights between Miri and Brunei don’t really exist — it’s too close. Catch the bus.

Kota Kinabalu (Day 9 and 10)

Sabah’s capital Kota Kinabalu is another major gateway into Borneo, with direct flights to Hong Kong, China and the Philippines. If until now you have seen fewer tourists, be prepared to confront a very developed tourist scene offering more accommodation and food options that one actually needs. Here are some tips for visiting Kota Kinabalu .

READ MORE  — 16 Sabah’s Best Attractions

Kota Kinabalu’s main merit is being set right in front of the five tropical islands that constitute the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park — the city is literally developed between a mountain range and the sea. There are several interesting markets, among which the ones on Gaya Street are the most established: the Api-Api Night Food Market happens each Friday and Saturday from 6 pm to 2 am, while on Sunday Mornings the excellent Gaya Street market packs all sorts of stuff and trinkets, besides traditional foods.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Just 15 minutes by boat from Kota Kinabalu’s Jesselton Pier, the park’s five islands — named Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug — offer good snorkelling and scuba diving, plus beaches and forests. Boats run from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. A return ticket costs 30RM, plus a 10RM fee for marine park’s conservation. To avoid crowds, you can buy your boat tickets in advance on Klook. Island-hopping is not the only fun here: dive operators such as Scuba Junkies organize diving day trips around the five islands. We don’t recommend taking your open water scuba diving course here by the way — go to Mabul for that, and enjoy every single stunning underwater moment of it.

Most of the dive sites around Tunku Abdul Rahman Park are quite shallow, with gentle slopes offering clamps of healthy corals and sandy seafloor. To be frank, the visibility is not great because of the frequent downpours, but the park still makes for some of the best offshore city diving you can find in Borneo and Malaysia — nothing compared to diving at Pulau Tenggol , but alas…

After diving, you can relax and sunbathe on one of the beaches, snorkel till you drop, or try the Coral Flyer — a 235-meter-long zipline stretched between Gaya and Sapi islands. It glides between the shores reaching a maximum speed of 55km/hour and 45-meters of height above the sea. Book your tickets in advance to skip the crowds using our partner Klook .

Book in Advance?

With only a couple of days in Kota Kinabalu, booking a tour may help you save some time and shave off the dreary logistics of getting there on time.

• Consider this half-day tour of Kota Kinabalu • Or get on this Kota Kinabalu night tour that includes a yummy seafood dinner • If you fancy a sunset cruise with seafood dinner , look no further than this tour and get a 40% discount with Klook. • What about getting out of the city for some kayaking? Check this tour out . • For some serious wilderness exploration, get on this 2D/1N tour of Maragang Hill and the Crocker Range from Kota Kinabalu .

Where to Stay in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu has a wide selection of accommodation. Check prices and options here, but these are a few of our favorite places:

• TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu
• Zoku Lifestyle
• Escape Backpackers KK
• Borneo Backpackers See more Kota Kinabalu accommodation and check prices here.

How to get from Brunei to Kota Kinabalu

The easiest and fastest option for a two weeks Borneo itinerary is catching a flight between Bandar Seri Begawan and Kota Kinabalu.

PRO TIP — Consider catching this private transfer from Kota Kibalau airport to your hotel of choice to save some time and 20RM.

There are also direct buses between Brunei and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, but be reminded that if you travel this way, besides wasting a full day on the road, your passport will also be stamped an astounding amount of times. First between Brunei and Sarawak, then upon entering Brunei again at Limbang. You will then exit Brunei into the Lawas division of Sarawak, from where you’ll get stamped out and in again upon finally entering Sabah. All in all, your passport will be stamped about 8 times. That’s six too many!

A much less passport-taxing method is catching a bus from BSB to Muara Beach, from where boats depart to the Sabahan island of Labuan. There are daily direct boats from Labuan to Kota Kinabalu, or you can get the shorter dingy to Menumbok, and then catch an onward bus (RM15) to Kota Kinabalu from there.

Ranau, Kundasang and Mount Kinabalu Park (Day 11 to 12)

At 4,100 meters, Mount Kinabalu is Sabah’s and Southeast Asia’s highest peak. But to be honest, the local tourism department enforces a very high price for climbing — without considering that the whole climb would shave off 3 to 4 days, including recovery time, from your two weeks itinerary in Borneo.

So save the Mount Kinabalu climb for another visit, but definitely go check out the mountain and experience a very different microclimate. Consider instead a hike at the (free of charge) Kinabalu Park, where you’ll go from sweating your face off in sun-scorched Kota Kinabalu, to enjoying the fresh air and beautiful nature of Mount Kinabalu’s foothills. While you are there, you should take in the sights of nearby villages of Kundasang and Ranau. Don’t miss a visit to Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, a piece of Switzerland in tropical Borneo — including cows and a milk and cheese factory… a real rarity in this part of the world.

Consider smoothing out travel logistics and time by booking a tour from Kota Kinabalu.

• You can join this day tour of Kinabalu’s farmland and see Desa Cattle Dairy Farm and other spots, and get back to your Kota Kinabalu hotel on the same evening.

• Or you could strike off to Mount Kinabalu Park for a nice refreshing hike, and then soak your aching muscles at the Poring Hot Springs before returning to Kota Kinabalu. Join this discounted tour on Klook. 

Where to Stay in Kundasang

• Kundasang Guesthouse
• Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Kinabalu Park
• Hillside Villa
• Jabez Resort Kundasang

See more Kudasang accommodation and check prices here.

How to get from Kota Kinabalu to Mount Kinabalu

Frequent buses between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan (affiliate) can drop you off at the Kinabalu Park junction near Kundasang. You can walk to your accommodation from there.

Another ideal way to save time is by renting a chartered car in Kota Kinabalu and go to Mount Kinabalu with your own group of friends.

If you have the driving skills and feel like renting a scooter is enough for you that also makes for a nice little adventure.

Kinabatangan River (Day 13 to 14)

Now that you have gotten accustomed to Borneo’s cities and towns, cave systems and national parks, it’s time to see some wildlife… on a river. Yes: to Borneo’s native peoples, rivers have always functioned like natural highways, and the Kinabatangan, one of the longest bodies of water in Borneo, is perfect to have an adventure.

It’s necessary to avail yourself of the services provided by local guesthouses and hotels, which offer private boat tours and guides. You won’t be able to see Kinabatangan otherwise, so be advised — if you don’t want to spend any money, don’t come here and save your two days for more time in some of the other destinations we recommended in this two weeks Borneo itinerary.

Kinabatangan is famous for its rich wildlife encounters — the reasons are sad yet simple: the forest beyond the river flanks has been logged so much that there’s only quite a narrow strip of jungle left. This is bad, of course. But it’s good for tourists, as the animals have less space to move around and live, and for this reason, are much more visible. You’ll easily see proboscis monkeys, a staggering amount of birds, giant bats and… crocodiles. The Kinabatangan River is also a great place to see wild Sabah pygmy elephants if you visit during one of their migratory seasons, which are quite unpredictable to pin down these days.

PRO-TIP : Usually, tours of Kinabatangan River ply the stretch of river around Sukau, but the more you go inland (and the more you spend on guides, of course), the more wildlife you’ll be able to see.

If you are running out of time or you prefer to see the Kinabatangan River while based in Sandakan, you can consider this one-day tours:

• An 8-hours long exploration of the Kinabatangan River from Sandakan • This tour offers a visit to Sepilok, the Sun Bear Rehabilitation Center, and tops it all off with a half-day river cruise along a stretch of Kinabatangan River.

Where to Stay in Sukau

•  Sukau Backpackers B&B •  Osman’s Homestay •  Bilit Adventure Lodge (includes all meals) •  The Last Frontier Boutique Resort

How to get from Mount Kinabalu to Sukau

If you are in Kundasang, it’s fairly easy to stand by the main highway junction and flag down passing buses towards the Sukau junction.

From there, ask your prospective accommodation in Sukau to send someone to pick you up or send a car. Remember that Grab Car and other car-hailing services are not available in this area of Sabah. Only pre-arranged taxis or the good ol’ hitchhiking work — depending on your fancy. We certainly hitchhiked all the way from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau several times, but we don’t expect you are up to the same challenge.

Sandakan and Sepilok (Day 15)

Sandakan is the last place in our two weeks Borneo itinerary — but you may even make it your first, as Sandakan is well connected by flight to Kuala Lumpur.

If you are coming from Sukau, it makes sense to stop in Sepilok first, as the orangutan and sun bear sanctuaries are located 25km away from Sandakan town along the side road that connects the Borneo highway to Sandakan and the coast.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center

This is one of the few sanctuaries in the world where you can see semi-wild orangutans. But if you have come from Kuching following our two weeks Borneo itinerary, you may consider skipping Sepilok as the entry ticket is more expensive than Semenggoh. To be fair, the experience at Sepilok is also more touristy.

This said, Sepilok has a better space for the baby orangutan nursery, and also an open play space where the young orangutans engage with slides and swings. By any means, visiting Sepilok is a great experience, and your money will benefit the rehabilitation process.

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Center

Even if you skip Sepilok’s orangutans, you can’t skip the BSBCC which is just in front of it. Come meet the world’s smallest (and cutest) bear at this sanctuary that, since its opening in 2008, has already saved 62 endangered sun bears, and rehabilitated and released 7 back into the wild.

The Center itself offers a walk around the protected enclosure where the sunbears can roam freely. Watch as they climb the tropical trees in search of food and fun, and observe the peculiar moon-shaped milk-white mark they carry on their upper chest as their species’ distinctive symbol.

If you fall in love with the sunbears, apply for the volunteer program run at the center by Doctor Wong Siew Tee, who was nominated a CNN Hero because of his conservation efforts.

Sandakan is the perfect ending point (or a great landing point, if you prefer following the other way around) to a fantastic two weeks Borneo itinerary.

Sandakan city itself is not very attractive: bombed to shreds during the Japanese occupation of Borneo in WWII, the beauty of the colonial Sandakan of yore only resists in a clasp of battered heritage buildings. The most interesting is the former residence of American author Agnes Keith, who wrote three books on Borneo here. There are also St. Michael’s and All Angels Church, and a couple of impressive Chinese Temples. Puu Jih Shih Temple, situated on top of Tanah Merah hill, is a taxi ride out of the city centre but it’s a fantastic place to have a whole view of the bay and see the sunset.

PRO TIP : One of Sandakan’s top draws is food: at a minimum, with one night to spare, go to the Sim Sim stilt village at Restaurant Sim Sim 90, and order any of their famous seafood dishes. Squid and prawns are their signatures, so ask the Chinese chefs to recommend you their plate of the day, and you won’t be disappointed. Don’t be put off by the rustic atmosphere… you are dining on a wooden stilt verandah over the sea, after all.

For a full Sandakan food guide, check out Thani Slim’s suggestions .

Where to Stay in Sepilok and Sandakan

• Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat • Nature Lodge Sepilok • Sandakan Backpackers Hostel • Four Points by Sheraton Sandakan • NAK  Hotel

See more places to Stay in Sandakan and check prices

How to get from Sukau to Sandakan

Sukau is not far from Sandakan’s Mile 32 turn off at the main highway. Any bus from Kota Kinabalu’s Inanam bus station to Sandakan will stop for you. If you want to see the orangutans first, make sure you tell your driver to stop for you at the Sepilok turnoff. The centre is about 4km down the road, and plenty of local taxis can whisk you there for a few Ringgit.

Remember that local buses also shuttle between Mile 32, the Sepilok Junction, and then proceed to Sandakan every 20 minutes or so until 7 pm.

Three weeks Borneo Itinerary

Now that you have spent two weeks in Borneo, we are sure you realized that it wasn’t enough time. You need at least another week to go deeper and see more of the beautiful places that Malaysian Borneo has to offer.

The following are some useful suggestions to extend your two weeks Borneo itinerary to three weeks, continuing (or starting) right from Sandakan.

READ MORE  — 7 Alternative Places to See in Sabah

Lahad Datu and Bukit Piton orangutan Reserve

Few people recommend visiting Lahad Datu, especially because its name still resonates with the memory of the 2013 standoff that saw marauding Southern Filipino Sulu pirates attack the coast.

We think that avoiding Lahad Datu today is a mistake: the place is quiet and offbeat, has very friendly local people, good food, and an interesting fish market. Don’t forget the Bukit Piton orangutan reserve  nearby, possibly the richest eco-system in Sabah to see 100% wild orangutans and pygmy elephants.

Where to Stay in Lahad Datu : without a doubt, Bike and Tours is the best option in town. Friendly, quiet, intimate, and with a nice little swimming pool to cool off those hot afternoons. Itisha and Simon are great hosts, too.

Explore the Danum Valley Conservation Area

If you have made it all the way down here, you shouldn’t skip the Danum Valley, a patch of primary rainforest where most of Sabah’s remaining wildlife has found the perfect habitat to thrive. Monkeys, orangutans, snakes, mouse deer… with the right guide, you’ll see them all.

READ MORE  — Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Danum Valley

Explore Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Set on the east of Lahad Datu, Tabin Wildlife Reserve was the habitat of the Sumatran rhino. You won’t be able to see them anymore, as they are extinct in Malaysia since 2019 . Regardless, Tabin is another good option to see some amazing Borneo rainforest without the crowds.

Sungai Kapur

Emerged as a proper destination only in 2018, the Sungai Kapur reserve is Kinabatangan without the crowds and a wilder feel. You can read our complete guide to the Sungai Kapur river safari  and decide for yourself.

Tawau Hills Park

Sabah’s southernmost city doesn’t get much publicity regardless of its unspoilt, empty beaches, and one of the most rewarding hikes in the whole of Sabah. Read more about Tawau Hills Park and Mount Lucia .

Dive at Mabul and Sipadan

If you like diving, or your holiday doesn’t feel complete without enjoying a fantastic beach, there are no better shores than Mabul island in the whole of Borneo. Sipadan soars nearby — this heavily protected marine park is one of the best scuba diving sites in the world. Looking for hammerhead shark galore? You’ve come to the right place.

Practical Tips to Make the Best of your Borneo Itinerary

When traveling to Borneo, a backpack is easier to carry around and lug on and off buses and boats.

Remember to pack insect repellent and fast-drying clothes you can easily wash in a hotel’s sink and dry on a line — another essential thing to carry.

When hiking in Borneo, leech socks are much recommended to avoid the jungle’s most nasty bite. A hiking raincoat and a decent pair of hiking boots are definitely recommended. Don’t think you can scramble in the jungle in those flip-flops…

You don’t really need a tent because the jungle floor is too wet and uneven to be comfortable. For Borneo camping, mosquito-net-equipped hammocks are much more practical.

How to Get to Borneo

Either side of Borneo (Sarawak or Sabah) is connected by many economic flights departing Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur, which in turn is one of Southeast Asia’s main hubs, connected to most areas of the world by all major airlines.

You can check the best prices from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching , and from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan .

How to Move Around Borneo

Given distances, if you only have two weeks in Borneo the best option is to book all your flights before you go. If you book ahead, flights will be very inexpensive and will get you quickly to most cities in Sarawak, Brunei and Sabah. Saving your travel time will maximize your discovery time.

Bus services are reliable and comfortable, but given they are also not so cheap, we think flights are always preferable when short on time. For example, it would take you 12 hours to go from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau by bus, while the same trip only takes an hour and a half by flight — and most often, it’s cheaper than a bus ticket.

Other Useful Tips

Get a borneo guidebook.

A good guidebook can help you on the ground, and there are two good ones on Borneo:

Lonely Planet Borneo Bradt Guide to Sarawak and Sabah

Sim card/Data plan

It’s easy to get a Malaysia Tourist SIM card in any Borneo airport or major city , but consider that data connections work best in urban centers. For rural Borneo, Celcom seems to have the best coverage. Forget reception when you are in the jungle.

Please read this complete guide on how to get a tourist SIM card in Malaysia .

Did you enjoy our two weeks Borneo Itinerary? Are you inspired to travel more around Borneo and Malaysia?

Further Readings on Malaysia and Borneo

• Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Borneo • Explore Bukit Piton Orangutan Sanctuary • At Home with Pirates on a Sungai Kapur River Cruise • Best Places to Visit in Malaysia in 3 Days • Tawau Hills Park Hiking Guide

Blogging transparency: this post contains affiliate links. These are products and services that we personally use and recommend. If you click on one and buy any service, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Consider it a small way to say thanks, and keep Monkeyrockworld going.

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Kate Abroad

Ultimate Bruny Island Day Trip Itinerary for 2024

A day trip to Bruny Island is a must when visiting Tasmania but you need a plan to squeeze in everything the island has to offer in just one day. This Bruny Island day trip itinerary has you covered with the best lookouts, walks, and of course food!

Bruny Island is not far from Hobart, the capital of Tasmania and Australia ‘s southernmost city, so you could feasibly get there and back in a day quite easily, and that’s the way most people do it. A day trip to Bruny Island from Hobart is a great add-on to a weekend in Tasmania’s capital .

We stayed in the nearby town of Snug which has a good campground for campervanning Tasmania and shortened the drive to the ferry in the morning, meaning we could sleep in a bit and get more time on the island.

You can use this map to navigate around the island.

Getting to Bruny Island, Tasmania

Start your day with a morning ferry ride to Bruny Island from Kettering. If you’re coming to Bruny Island from Hobart, I’d recommend stopping at the Margate Pancake Train on the way down to grab some breakfast. There are food options on the island but they’re better for lunch/dinner/tastings than breakfast.

I have a full guide to the Bruny Island ferry that has all the details, but the main thing is that you need your own vehicle as there’s nowhere to go at the other end without a car.

Bruny Island Visitor Map

To help you make the most of your day on Bruny Island, I’ve put all the key Bruny island attractions into the below Google Map which you can use to plan your route around the island.

Bruny Island Day Trip Itinerary

Get your photos at the neck truganini lookout.

Once on the island, I’d recommend heading south on the main road towards the lighthouse. The lighthouse is the furthest point from the ferry wharf where you’ll start your day on Bruny Island so by heading there first, you’ll get to see it before the crowds and save the afternoon for eating!

Before you get to the lighthouse, however, you won’t be able to resist making a stop-off at Truganini Lookout at The Neck which is about halfway down the island. 

This thin strip of land connects the two halves of the island and is the most spectacular lookout point on Bruny Island.  You do have to climb a bunch of stairs to get the views, but the winding wooden staircase is part of what makes the scene so Instagrammable. 

If you’re there at the right time you might catch a sighting of the penguins who make their home at the rookery on the Eastern side of The Neck.

The Neck can be extremely windy so make sure to hold onto your hats, glasses and car doors (we made that mistake!).

Cool fact – The Lookout at The Neck is named after Truganini who was a famous Aboriginal woman who once lived in Tasmania.

Visit Bruny Island Lighthouse

The lighthouse is one of the most famous landmarks on Bruny Island and a must on any Bruny Island itinerary. Actually getting there is a bit of a pain however as the last section of the drive is over 10km of dirt road covered in potholes.

You can check out our full guide to Bruny Island Lighthouse which has the whole rundown of getting out there, the lighthouse tours and the best photo spots.

While you’re there, you might want to attempt one of the walks around the southwestern part of the island that have spectacular brews of the fluted cliffs. The Labilladiere Peninsula Walk is around 5 hours while the Luggaboine Circuit is shorter at around 1.5 hours.

Given the length of these walks, if you’re trying to see Bruny Island in one day and really want to hike, you’ll need to make a trade-off by cutting down on some afternoon activities. You could skip Adventure Bay or double down and spend the whole day in nature and miss the tastings, it just depends on whether you want your Bruny Island day trip to be more foodie-focused or adventure-focused.

Stop for lunch at Hotel Bruny

After the trek out to the exposed lighthouse, it’ll be time to go inside and warm up with some lunch. The best spot on the bottom part of the island is Hotel Bruny in Alonnah (also Bruny Island’s biggest township).

The hotel largely offers pub-style food with huge servings (check out the size of the chicken parmigiana below!). They’re also the home of Bruny Island Cider with the full range of ciders available for tastings plus an awesome hot cider in winter.

As an alternative for a more luxurious experience, you could instead try Bruny Island Premium Wines for lunch. They’re open daily for a la carte lunch and tasting platters at their cellar door near Lunawanna.

Walk on the beach at Adventure Bay

After a hearty lunch, with lots of local seafood, head back north towards Adventure Bay. Adventure Bay is the main holiday spot on the island and is where you’ll find most of the accommodation options.

On your way, you could stop off at Bruny Island Chocolate Company, it’s an ok option for gifts but we found it a bit underwhelming. If you’re after a sweet treat, then Bruny Island Raspberry farm is a go-to in summer.

Adventure Bay is where the Bruny Island Cruises depart from. If you want to see more of the island’s scenery without hiking this is a great option, but you’ll need to plan your day around it as the 10 am – 1:30 pm cruise times don’t leave much room for anything else. 

Adventure Bay is a great place for some beach time in summer or just a walk on the coast in winter. The long stretch of coastline lined by forest is beautiful and a great spot to camp if you have time for an overnight stay on Bruny Island.

You can walk part or all of the Fluted Cape Track (2.5 hours return), the first section around Grass Point at the end of Adventure Bay is very accessible and perfect for an out-and-back stroll.

Where to eat on a Bruny Island day trip 

Bruny Island is a foodie destination for a reason and no Bruny Island itinerary would be complete without several tastings. Hopping between tasting rooms as you work your way back north towards the wharf is a great way to spend an afternoon.

My favourite place was Bruny Island Cheese & Beer Co which does delicious tasting boards of a whole range of cheese and locally made condiments. They also do craft beer flights if that’s your thing.

For seafood fans, Get Shucked, is a fun experience, it’s a drive-through oyster bar that also has a sunny deck where you can throw down oysters by the dozen. Their oysters are so fresh you can watch them being shucked and they taste of the sea.

Before you leave, two other great stops are Bruny Island Honey and Bruny Island House of Whiskey, more top-quality local producers offering tastings and lots of goodies to take home.

If you have a bit more time left at the end of the day, you could drive further north on the island. The roads up north aren’t great but there are some beautiful lookouts around Dennes Point as well as the Historic Bruny Island Quarantine Station and the Art Untamed Gallery. 

By the time you get the boat home, you’ll be full and exhausted but hopefully had a great day out.

Best Bruny Island Day Tours

If you don’t want to drive on the island or want to make sure you are packing the most into your one day on Bruny Island then a day tour is a great way to go.

There are plenty of companies running day tours to Bruny Island from Hobart, I would recommend Pennicott Wilderness as they’re a well-established operator in Tasmania and offer really well-curated itineraries. Their Bruny Island Traveller day tour has a bit of everything including food and drinks tastings, a museum and walks. Click here to book the tour online.

If you want something that’s more of an activity than a full-day tour, Bruny Island Cruises offers boat trips around the island which let you see different areas that are inaccessible by car. You can join the cruise from Adventure Bay (on Bruny Island) or book transfers from Ketteridge or Hobart. Click here to book your cruise online.

The third Bruny Island guided day tour I’d recommend is the Tassie Tours day tour from Hobart. It’s very similar to the Pennicott Bruny Island Traveller but more affordable as food is not included. Click here to book Tassie Tours online.

Frequently asked questions about a Bruny Island day trip

Do you need a car to see bruny island.

Yes, Bruny Island has no public transport so you will need to either hire a car to get around or book a Bruny Island day tour that provides transport.

Can you see Bruny Island in a day?

Absolutely yes. A day trip is a great way to see Bruny Island as it’s enough time to explore the main attractions and try some of the great food plus catch the ferry back to the mainland of Tasmania.

How long does it take to drive around Bruny Island?

Driving from the ferry wharf to the lighthouse at the southern end of Bruny Island takes approximately 1-1.5 hours due to poor road conditions. Driving from the wharf to the top of the island takes just under an hour. So you can drive a lap of Bruny Island in under 3 hours, excluding stops.

Where to stay overnight on Bruny Island

If you have more time, consider staying the night on Bruny Island. There are no hotels but there are several campsites, holiday homes and boutique lodges on the island.

Here are some options for each budget range:

• Budget / Camping: Captain Cook Holiday Park
• Mid-range / Luxury (they have multiple properties at different rates): Adventure Bay Retreat

In Short: Bruny Island In One Day

Hopefully, you found this Bruny Island Day Trip Guide helpful. If you did, try our other Tasmania guides for Cradle Mountain , Hobart , the Huon Valley , and Snug .

Happy travelling!

Australia Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find awesome day tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Save on Sydney attractions with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your Australian dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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