Brunei Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
About Brunei
Brunei Travel Guide, October 3, 2025: Brunei Darussalam, known as the “Abode of Peace,” is a small yet wealthy nation on the island of Borneo, bordered by Malaysia and the South China Sea. Famous for its golden mosques, pristine rainforests, and rich culture, Brunei offers a unique blend of Islamic tradition and modern development. Whether you’re planning a cultural holiday, a nature escape, or a luxury trip, Brunei is an excellent destination to explore.
Best Time to Visit Brunei
The best time to visit Brunei is during the dry season from January to May. Weather is pleasant, humidity is lower, and outdoor sightseeing becomes more enjoyable.
Top Places to Visit in Brunei
Here’s an expanded version of your Brunei highlights with more details and addresses for each attraction:
1. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
A breathtaking mosque located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in Southeast Asia. Featuring a majestic golden dome, marble minarets, and surrounded by a serene man-made lagoon, it reflects both Islamic and Italian architectural styles. The mosque is especially stunning at sunset when it lights up the skyline.
📍 Address: Jalan McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8711, Brunei
2. Kampong Ayer (Water Village)
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Kampong Ayer is a historic settlement of wooden stilt houses, mosques, shops, and schools built above the Brunei River. Home to around 30,000 residents, it has its own water taxis and walkways, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Brunei’s traditional lifestyle. The Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery provides guided tours.
📍 Address: Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
3. Istana Nurul Iman
The official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, and recognized as the world’s largest residential palace with over 1,700 rooms. Although closed to the public for most of the year, it opens its doors for three days during Hari Raya Aidilfitri, where visitors can meet the Sultan and Royal Family.
📍 Address: Jalan Menteri Besar, Bandar Seri Begawan BB3913, Brunei
4. Ulu Temburong National Park
Often called the “Green Jewel of Brunei,” this pristine rainforest park covers 500 sq. km of protected land. Accessible only by boat, it offers eco-adventures like river cruises, canopy walks, bird watching, and overnight stays at eco-lodges. A paradise for eco-tourism enthusiasts and nature lovers.
📍 Address: Ulu Temburong District, Brunei (Access via Bangar town and river transport)
5. Royal Regalia Museum
A cultural landmark dedicated to Brunei’s monarchy, featuring royal artifacts, gifts from foreign dignitaries, and a replica of the Sultan’s coronation throne. The museum offers deep insights into Brunei’s history and governance. Entry is free, and photography is restricted inside.
📍 Address: Jalan Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8611, Brunei
6. Jerudong Park
Once dubbed the world’s most expensive amusement park, Jerudong Park offers a mix of family-friendly rides, a water park, and evening entertainment. It may not be as grand as in its early years, but it remains a popular spot for families and children.
📍 Address: Jerudong BG3122, Brunei
Outdoor Adventures in Brunei
- Jerudong Park Playground
IG: @jerudongpark | W: jerudongpark.com | Tel: +673 2610290 - Cycling / Mountain Biking – scenic trails, jungles & beaches
IG: @kingdomrides | FB: Kingdom Rides + Adventures | Tel: +673 2340009 - Paintball – Jerudong Arena
IG: @paintballarenajerudong | FB: Paintball Arena at Jerudong | Tel: +673 8136689 - Diving – coral reefs, shipwrecks
- Oceanic Quest Co. – IG: @oceanicquest | FB: Oceanic Quest Sdn Bhd | Tel: +673 2771190
- Poni Divers – IG: @ponidivers | FB: Poni Divers | Tel: +673 2771778
- Watersports – Serasa Beach (Poni Divers)
- Bird Watching – Ulu Temburong National Park, Luagan Lalak (Labi Hills)
- Proboscis Monkey Tour – river cruises
📍 Places of Interest
- Bandar Seri Begawan
- Archaeological Park (Bus 39)
- Ash-Shaliheen Mosque (Bus 23, 24, Taxi)
- Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque (walk from terminal)
- Royal Regalia Museum (Bus 56, 42, 44, 45, 49)
- Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre (Bus 39)
- Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery (Water taxi)
- Islamic Calligraphy & Arts Studies Centre (Taxi)
- Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja (walk)
- Brunei Malay Technology Museum (Bus 39)
- Maritime Museum (Bus 39)
- Brunei History Centre (Bus 56, 42, 44, 45, 49)
- Istana Nurul Iman (Taxi)
- Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque (Bus 01C, 20, 22, Taxi)
- Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Taxi)
- Seria
- Billionth Barrel Monument
- Seria Energy Lab
- Tutong
- Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park (ASEAN Heritage Park)
- Temburong
- Ulu Temburong National Park
🛍 Shopping Areas
- Bandar – Yayasan SHHB Shopping Complex
- Gadong – The Mall, Centrepoint, Gadong Night Market
- Kiulap – Seri Q-Lap Mall, Impiana Jaya Complex, Regent Square, Shakirin Complex
- Kg Jaya Setia – Times Square, Citis Square, Airport Mall, BT Complex
- Serusop & Delima – shops, textiles, supermarkets
- Batu Satu – Plaza Abdul Razak, Plaza Athirah
- Batu Bersurat – Little Soho, The Curve
- Handicrafts – kain tenunan, silver, copperware
- Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Training Centre | Tel: +673 2240676
- Bangunan Sumbangsih Mulia
- Designer Graduan
🍽 Food & Restaurants
Signature Dishes
- Ambuyat (Brunei’s national dish)
- Roti Kuning (Chop Jing Chew, Gadong)
- Pulut Panggang (Mei Fang Coffee Shop, Tutong)
- KK Koya’s Rojak (Tutong, Kuala Belait)
Popular Spots
- Aminah Arif Restaurant (Ambuyat) – IG: @aminaharif.bn | Multiple branches
- Chop Jing Chew (Gadong, est. 1946)
- Kaizen Sushi (Waterfront, Yayasan Complex)
- Piccolo Café (Jln McArthur, BSB)
- Two Sons Coffee (Kiulap)
- Nyonya Restaurant (Kiulap)
- Rice Bowl (Batu Bersurat)
- Delhi Darbar (Jerudong)
- Roasted Sip (Jerudong)
…and many more across Bandar, Gadong, Kiulap, Batu Bersurat, Jerudong, Serusop, Tutong, Kuala Belait.
🌿 Eco & Nature Experiences
- Berakas Forest Recreation Park
- Bukit Shahbandar Forest Recreation Park
- Freme Rainforest Lodge – W: freme.com/bruneitours | IG: @freme_rainforest_lodge | Tel: +673 2234277
- Eco Ponies Garden – FB/IG: @eco_poniesgarden | Tel: +673 8913811
- MPK Katimahar Agri Park – IG: @katimaharagripark | Tel: +673 8364728
- Sumbiling Eco Village – W: sumbiling.com | IG: @sumbilingecovillage | Tel: +673 8719619
- Tasek Lama Recreational Park
🚖 Brunei Transportation
| Mode of Transport | Operating Hours / Days | Fare / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Buses | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM | From B$1 |
| Taxis | Anytime (Airport, hotels, shopping areas) | Metered; Dart Taxi app available |
| Water Taxis | Around Kampong Ayer | Approx. B$1 per ride |
| Ferry Services | Mon, Wed, Fri (from Serasa Terminal to Labuan) | Journey time: 45 mins – 1 hour |
How to Reach Brunei
By Air: Brunei International Airport (BWN) in Bandar Seri Begawan is well-connected with flights from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Manila, Dubai, and Hong Kong.
By Road: Travelers from Malaysian Borneo (Sabah & Sarawak) can enter Brunei via border checkpoints.
By Sea: Regular ferries connect Brunei with Labuan (Malaysia).
Brunei Tour Packages
Several travel companies offer Brunei tour packages combining city sightseeing, cultural visits, and eco-tourism.
- 3D/2N Brunei Highlights Tour – Bandar Seri Begawan, Water Village, Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
- 4D/3N Brunei Nature & Culture Tour – Includes Ulu Temburong National Park + city attractions.
- Luxury Brunei Tour Packages – Featuring 5-star stays, private guides, and exclusive cultural experiences.
Brunei: A 3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Cultural Immersion in BSB: Start your day at the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Then, head to the Royal Regalia Museum to learn about the royal history. In the afternoon, take a water taxi tour of Kampong Ayer. Finish the day with dinner and a walk through the Gadong Night Market.
- Day 2: Nature and Royalty: Visit the grand Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque in the morning. Then, take a trip to the Istana Nurul Iman to see the Sultan’s palace from the outside. In the late afternoon, go on a river cruise to spot proboscis monkeys and other wildlife along the Brunei River.
- Day 3: Rainforest Adventure: Dedicate a full day to visiting Ulu Temburong National Park. Book a tour that includes a longboat ride through the rainforest and a trek up to the canopy walk for an unforgettable panoramic view.
Brunei: A 4-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Royal & Cultural Immersion in Bandar Seri Begawan
- Morning: Royal Regalia Museum & Istana Nurul Iman (Sultan’s Palace).
- Afternoon: Explore Kampong Ayer (Water Village) and Tamu Kianggeh Market.
- Evening: Visit Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque (illuminated at night) and eat at the Gadong Night Market.
- Day 2: Grandeur and Local Life
- Morning: See the Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque and relax at Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas Park.
- Afternoon: Visit the Malay Technology Museum and take a Brunei River Safari to spot proboscis monkeys.
- Evening: Dine on authentic Bruneian cuisine like ambuyat.
- Day 3: Rainforest Adventure
- Full Day: Take a full-day tour of Ulu Temburong National Park, including a longboat ride and a climb up the canopy walk for panoramic views.
- Day 4: Beyond the Capital & Departure
- Morning: Choose between visiting the Billionth Barrel Monument in Seria or exploring Tasek Merimbun, Brunei’s largest natural lake.
- Afternoon: Final souvenir shopping at the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex before departing.
👉 Global: Average cost: USD 400 – USD 1000 per person depending on duration and inclusions.
👉 Malaysia: Average cost: MYR 1,680 – MYR 4,200 per person depending on duration and inclusions.
Brunei Currency
- Currency Name: Brunei Dollar (BND)
- Exchange Rate: 1 BND ≈ 0.74 USD (approx.)
- Note: Brunei Dollar is interchangeable with the Singapore Dollar (SGD) at par value.
Food & Drink
- Ambuyat: The national dish, a starchy, bland delicacy made from sago palm, typically eaten with a spicy dip (cacah) and various side dishes.
- Nasi Katok: A simple yet popular dish of rice, fried chicken, and sambal (chili paste).
- Fresh Seafood: Given its coastal location, Brunei offers excellent fresh seafood.
- Local Markets: Explore local markets for fresh produce and street food.
- Tamu Kianggeh Market for fresh produce and local snacks
- Gadong Night Market for a wide variety of delicious and affordable street food.
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🗣 Local Lingo (Malay → English)
| English Phrase | Malay Translation |
|---|---|
| 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 awak? |
| My name is … | Nama saya … |
| Excuse me | Maafkan saya |
| Yes | Ya |
| No | Tidak |
| How much? | Berapa? |
| Where is the toilet? | Di mana tandas? |
| I want to go to … | Saya mahu pergi ke … |
| Turn right | Belok ke kanan |
| Turn left | Belok ke kiri |
| Go straight | Jalan terus |
| Airport | Lapangan terbang |
| Town | Bandar |
| Home | Rumah |
| Shops | Kedai |
| Eat | Makan |
| Drink | Minum |
| Walk | Jalan-jalan |
| 1, 2, 3 … | Satu, Dua, Tiga … |
Contact Numbers to Note
🚨 Emergency
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 993 |
| Fire | 995 |
| Ambulance | 991 |
| Directory enquiries | 113 |
| Darussalam hotline | 123 |
✈️ Flight Information
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| General | +673 2331747 |
🛫 Airlines
| Airline | Contact Number(s) |
|---|---|
| Royal Brunei Airlines | +673 2212222 / +673 2240500 |
| Singapore Airlines | +673 8013022 |
| Cebu Pacific Air | +673 2222666 |
🏥 Medical Services
| Hospital/Medical Centre | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| RIPAS Hospital | +673 2242424 |
| Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) | +673 2611433 |
| Gleneagles JPMC | +673 2611122 |
| Tutong Hospital | +673 4221010 Ext 123 |
| Kuala Belait Hospital | +673 3335331 |
| Temburong Hospital | 5221256 Ext 127 |
🚗 Car Rental
| Company | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Hertz | +673 8726000 |
| Avis | +673 2426345 |
General Information
Islamic Etiquette
- Brunei is an Islamic state but welcomes visitors of all religions.
- Dress modestly and respectfully (women should cover heads, shoulders, knees). Some mosques provide robes/shawls.
- Remove shoes before entering mosques.
- Avoid passing in front of people praying or touching the Quran.
- Photography is usually allowed with permission.
- Mosques are closed on Fridays during prayer times.
Friday Prayers
- All banks, businesses, offices, retail, food, and beverage outlets close between 12:00 noon and 2:00 PM on Fridays.
Banks
- Open: Mon–Thu: 7:45 AM–12:15 PM, 1:30 PM–5:30 PM
- Fri: 8:00 AM–11:00 AM, 2:30 PM–4:00 PM
- ATMs available across the country (Visa/Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus accepted).
Credit Cards
- Widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls.
- Most accepted: Visa & MasterCard, some places accept American Express.
Lost/Stolen Passports & Credit Cards
- Report to nearest police station.
- Contact your bank immediately for card blocking.
Money Changer
- Available at airports, banks, hotels, and licensed money changers.
Money Remittance/Transfer
- Available at banks and remittance agencies.
Telecommunications
- Prepaid SIM cards available from:
- Datastream Digital (DST)
- Progresif Sdn Bhd
- Imagine Sdn Bhd
Smoking & Vaping
- Prohibited in air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned areas (govt buildings, hospitals, transport, restaurants).
- Offenders may be fined.
🚌 Transport in Brunei
Tourist Information Centre
- At Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery and Brunei International Airport.
- Open: Mon–Thu & Sat (9:00–12:15, 1:30–4:30 PM)
Buses
- Operating hours: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM
- Fares: from B$1.00
- Routes: www.jpd.gov.bn
- Departures from: Jalan Cator, Bandar Seri Begawan.
Taxis
- Metered taxis available at airports, hotels, shopping centers, and Bandar Seri Begawan bus station.
- Dart Taxi app also available.
Water Taxis
- Common transport in Kampong Ayer.
- Can hail from jetties along Brunei River.
- Fares negotiable, around B$1.00 per ride.
Ferry Services
- Passenger ferries to Labuan, Malaysia:
- Depart: Mon, Wed, Fri (9:00 AM & 1:00 PM)
- From: Serasa Terminal, Muara Town
- Journey time: 45 mins–1 hour
Brunei Travel FAQ
Brunei is the only sovereign state entirely on Borneo; the remainder of the island is divided between its multi-landmass neighbours of Malaysia and Indonesia. Check out the frequently asked questions about Brunei.
1. Do I need a visa to visit Brunei?
Most ASEAN countries, the UK, EU, and several others enjoy visa-free entry for 14–90 days. Check latest requirements before traveling.
Is Brunei expensive for tourists?
Brunei is moderately priced – cheaper than Singapore but costlier than Malaysia. Public transport is limited, so taxis and private tours can increase costs.
3. What language is spoken in Brunei?
Malay (Bahasa Melayu) is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Is Brunei safe for tourists?
Yes, Brunei is one of the safest countries in Asia with very low crime rates.
What is Brunei famous for?
Golden mosques, royal heritage, pristine rainforests, and its status as a wealthy oil-rich nation.
What made Brunei so rich?
The economy system of Brunei is called by some as “Trophy Capitalism”, which follows “Jefrinomics”, based on Prince Jefri Bolkiah. It is almost entirely supported by exports of crude oil and natural gas, with revenues from the petroleum sector accounting for over half of GDP.
What is the climate like in Brunei?
Brunei has a hot and humid tropical rainforest climate with high rainfall and stable, warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 23°C and 32°C.
Final Thoughts
Brunei might be small, but it offers a unique blend of Islamic architecture, lush rainforests, and cultural heritage. From exploring majestic mosques to cruising through mangrove forests, a trip to Brunei is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful and enriching holiday.
Enjoy your adventure in the “Abode of Peace”!
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