Brunei Darussalam Travel Guide
A heavily-forested kingdom state in Southeast Asia, the tiny kingdom of Brunei has one of the highest standards of living in the world Thanks to its rich natural gas and petroleum resources. Located on the island of Borneo bordering with the Malaysian state of Sarawak, this city-sized country boasts a long-recorded history and unique culture. A number of parks, lakes and countless architectural wonders, including the gleaming gold dome of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, all add an interesting tourist spin to the country.
Destinations:
Weather – when to go
The country has a hot, humid tropical climate all year round.
Best: March-April, when the weather is generally warm. As these two months are peak season, it is a good idea to book your hotel in advance. Annual average temperature is about 28°C.
Worst: November-December are to be avoided due to the monsoon season, hence heavy rainfall.
Highlights
Bandar Seri Begawan: located in the vibrant Brunei-Muara district, this bustling capital city is home to the world-famous Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the most magnificent mosques in Asia, the Royal Regalia Building and the Brunei Museum.
Kampong Ayer: just outside of the capital, this renowned water village, described as the Venice of the East, is a must-visit place, accessible by boat. Walk around this uber-equipped village featuring historic houses, clinics, schools and mosques.
Tutong: a peaceful town that has several natural spots such as beautiful parks, the country’s largest lake, Tasek Merimbun, a small island and a beach. The big tamu (an open market) offers a variety of local foods and handicrafts.
Ulu Temburong National Park: one of the most important attractions in Temburong district, this large, unspoiled park offers canopy trails on wooden walkways and rich, fascinating wildlife.
Beaches: Muara, Serasa, Kuala Belait and Lumut Beach near Tutong boast golden sand and crystal clear waters with plenty of water sports, perfect for a family day out.
Recommended itinerary
A week is enough to enjoy the spirit of Brunei fully.
Three days in Bandar Seri Begawan
One day in Kampong Ayer, the water village
Two days in Tutong district, for a tour around Tutong and other towns
Additional time
Two days (one night) in Ulu Temburong National Park
Two days for beach-hopping
Health and safety
Brunei is one of the safest places in the world. Crime, even pickpocketing, is very rare in the country. Alcoholic drinks of all kinds are not sold in Brunei, but non-Muslim visitors may bring limited amount of alcohol into Brunei and to some high-end restaurants and hotel bars. Do not drink water unless it’s boiled or bottled and only eat well-cooked food, served hot. Hospitals and clinics in Brunei offer medical facilities of a high standard.
Activities
A visit to Jerudong Park Playground: now one of the top destinations in Brunei, this gigantic theme park offers heart-stopping rides and extensive children’s play facilities.
Hiking and trekking: many natural spots make Brunei an ideal place for enthusiastic hikers. Ulu Temburong National Park offers excellent natural trails, wooden walkways, tree houses and hanging bridges.
Picnicking: as Brunei boasts a great number of parks, picnicking is one of the most popular activities among locals and tourists alike. Remarkable parks include Tasek Recreational Park in Brunei Muara district, Sungai Basong Recreation Park in Tutong district, and Sungai Liang Forest Recreational Park in Belait district.
Water sports: most beaches in Brunei offer a wide range of water sports. There’s also a newly built sports complex at Serasa Beach, providing various activities such as regatta, sailing, powered boat racing, water-skiing and fishing.
Dining: similar to Malay cuisine, Brunei dishes also focus on rice and spicy fresh fish. Local specialities feature Daging Masak Lada Hitam, spicy beef with potato beans, and Udang Sambal Serai Bersantan, prawns with chilli and coconut milk.
Shopping: those looking for unique souvenirs will find a selection of goods at the Bandar Seri Begawan Night Market including handmade silverware, brassware and bronzeware as well as gold and silver threaded material known as Jona Sarat.
Food and Hospitality
Locals are helpful and speak fluent English yet they can be quite reserved. The country’s infrastructure is excellent as Brunei is one of the richest in the region. There is a great selection of restaurants, for locals love to eat out. Many five-star hotels offer luxurious comfort, as well as ‘hotel bars’ where you can bring your own booze and mixers.
Transportation
Flying to Brunei International Airport is the easiest way to get to Brunei. Royal Brunei Airlines, the national airline, offers flights to major destinations in Southeast Asia, Europe and also Australia. Driving from Sarawak to Brunei is also possible via two entry points; one from Miri (Sungai Tujuh) and one from Limbang (Kuala Lurah). Buses also run between Kuala Belait in Brunei and Miri in Sarawak, with a bus change at the Sungei Tujoh border checkpoint. Alternatively, taking a boat from Sarawak is also a fun journey. You will arrive at the Serasa Ferry Terminal at Muara in Brunei, which is about 25kms from the city. To get around, taxis are aplenty while water taxis offer regular services to Kampong Ayer, the water village.
