Brunei is an interesting country. Usually ignored on the typical South East Asia Tour, maybe it’s time we shone a light on the best bits of this country. So let me introduce you to Brunei, the undiscovered gem of South East Asia.
Forget all you know about the bustling South East Asian cities of Bangkok, Jakarta, Singapore and Ho Chi Minh: Bandar Seri Begawan lives up to its pseudonym as the capital of the ‘Abode of Peace’. This underrated country in South East Asia still offers a lot of undiscovered adventures and here we will uncover the REAL highlights from someone who lived there.
In this guide, we’re sharing the top things to do in Brunei!
Top Things to Do in Brunei
Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is the number one thing to see in Brunei according to everyone who hasn’t been to Brunei. Yes, it is a central point of the city centre, yes, it’s a beautiful construction but is it the best thing to do in Brunei? I don’t think so.
No matter where you’re standing in the city centre, you can’t miss the golden dome on the mosque (it’s not exceptionally big, it’s more that there are no tall buildings in the city centre). Nothing is allowed to be built taller too.
The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III mosque is the national mosque and it is known throughout South East Asia as a beautiful mosque. It’s a good starting point to explore the city.
Be aware that the mosque will be closed at prayer times. They provide suitable clothing to enter the mosque
Explore the Eco Park and Riverside Walk
Straight after your mosque visit, head to the eco park just next door. Families gather here in the evening and at weekends, bringing picnics and hiring bikes to cycle around the pedestrianized area.
It’s a popular spot for exercise in the evening with a riverside walk along the waterfront to the RIPAS bridge (which looks pretty when it has been lit up). Head right when looking at the river to try and spot crocodiles hanging out.
Kampong Ayer
From the waterfront you can’t miss Kampong Ayer, which is the world’s largest water village, and we mean village. There are schools, hospital, gyms, a fire station all built on stilts. The 38 kilometres of boardwalk connect this floating village and it is in various states of use.
There is rarely a handrail and there might be the occasional hole, slightly wobbly board or cat poop to avoid. Kampong Ayer is also known as the ‘Venice of the east’ but honestly, I think the similarities end there.
Want to read more about a trip to Venice, check out this post.
There is still a substantial community on Kampong Ayer although many have headed to the mainland or travel there to work.
It’s an interesting place and if you enjoy unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, consider staying in Kampong Ayer during your visit to Brunei, we highly recommend a stay at Kunyit 7 Lodge with the incredibly Kem as your guide. It’s a $1BND trip one way trip from the mainland to the village
Spend a Sunday in Bandar Seri Begawan- Bandarku Ceria
If you happen to be visiting the city on a Sunday you will find most of the roads closed to become a pedestrianized playground. The population is encouraged to ride bikes, scoot, skate, jog and walk around the city. There are also lots of local stalls selling food, clothes and trinkets.
Check Out the Royal Regalia Museum
This museum houses all of the Sultan’s gifts (maybe not the best ones but some) presented to him and his father, Saifuddien, from various heads of state from around the world. The museum’s permanent exhibit shows Sultan Bolkiah’s life since childhood, as well as providing as insight into the lives of the Royal family.
The centre piece of the Royal Regalia is the gilded chariot built for the 1992 Silver Jubilee ceremony. It’s still used by the royal family during national celebrations.
Admittedly, this is not a bustling city, filled with activities but keep reading to discover that once you step away from the city, you will begin to find the real best things about Brunei!
Experience the Gadong Night Market
If you are after a late night, Brunei is not the place to you, but if you are a little hustle and bustle then get yourself down to Gadong Night Market. Remember the population of Brunei is only 400,000 people so set your expectation with this night market. This is the place to visit for food. Bruneian life is very much built around MAKAN!
There are two main reasons to visit Gadong Night Market – selection and price. You’ll find a great variety of Brunei’s staple dishes all for a decent price. There is a vast array of fried food but look out for the local delicacies such as satay chicken butts (called ayam tungking in Malay).
Visit a Cinema
Right, I know this isn’t special or unique to Brunei but what makes it special is how cheap it is to go to the cinema here.
- Adult tickets are between $4-6
- Child tickets are between $3-5
WARNING! The cinemas are freezing. Wrap up warm!
Ok, so now we get to the real good stuff about Brunei. Whilst the city has its highlights, what makes Brunei so special and unique is the accessibility of primary rainforest, waterfalls and lakes! So let me introduce you to the real best things to do in Brunei.
Visit Ulu Temburong
Ulu Temburong National Park is also known as Brunei’s “Green Jewel”.
More than 70% of Brunei is jungle, and they make up some of the oldest in the world. There are limited areas that the public can explore but it’s packed with activities. To get to the park head to Temburong from Bandar Seri Begawan and take a long boat up the river. We have loved our stays at Trandie.
With white water rafting, tubing, foraging, jungle hikes, waterfall climbing and ziplines, your stay will be packed with activities. Watch out for hornbills flying above as you power your way up river or head out on a night walk to spot snakes or the elusive palm civet. The wildlife here is phenomenal!
The one animal missing from Brunei? Orangutans! Check our post here on where to see them.
Climb the Canopy Walk
Walking through Temburong is truly amazing, the variety of green’s is mind blowing but maybe you need a new perspective to truly grasp just how fantastic this place is. Tie up those shoelaces, stretch those leg muscles and be brave, it’s time to walk the 746 steps to the top of the canopy.
Being 50 meters (160ft) above the forest floor is not for everyone. It is a steep, slightly perilous trip to the top. If you are remotely scared of heights, this one is not for you. It’s possible to take kids up, but as a parent, prepare to have your heart in your mouth the whole time.
Go on Jungle Walks
You are absolutely spoilt for choice when it comes to walking in the jungle. There is something for everyone, even the kids. Use the AllTrails app to find suitable walks in your area looking for some clearly marked trails, check out the list below. You should always hike with someone else!
- Tasek Lama– surprisingly close to the city center, there are lots of clearly marked routes of varying difficulty.
- Bukit Shabandar– known as the 9 or 14 hills, this route is popular for its challenge but gives amazing views over the jungle.
- Sipitir– A short route with views over the Brunei river, lit up at night for those fancying a late adventure.
Chase Waterfalls
With so much jungle, it’s not surprising that there are lots of waterfalls. Some will require a bit of a jungle trek but Teraja Waterfall is one of the easiest to reach from the road. Head down to Seria to visit this natural pool and waterfall.
Camping at Bintudoh and Eco Ponies
This family friendly camp offers tents and equipment or small cabins to rent. Around a small lake with some water activities and a zipline, it offers a welcome escape to nature.
There is also a chance to ride ATVs through the jungle. Just across the road from the campsite you can visit Eco Ponies Garden. This beautiful farm to table community set up serves delicious locally sourced food in a quirky set up.
Try the Mangrove River Safari Tour
The Brunei River is the best place to see proboscis monkeys in Brunei. These endangered, but slightly comical monkeys are famous for their huge bulbous noses.
Not as common as the nuisance long tailed macaques, it’s pretty rare to not spot them. Just a short ride from the city and you will be spotting snakes, crocodiles, otters, sea eagles and maybe if you are lucky, the silver leaf monkey or snakes! The best bet? The price is much lower than over the border in Borneo!
Looking for some inspiration on where to go next? Check our tips here
Visit a Wild Beach
The beaches in Brunei have a real undiscovered, wild charm to them. Don’t expect any maintenance, they are as nature intended! Palm-fringed with soft sand and clear seas they make it a great place to visit. But it comes with a warning! These beaches are so wild that they have been claimed by sandflies. This means that unless you cover up, or there is a strong breeze you will be a walking piece of meat.
Don’t let this scare you off, Bruneian sunsets are spectacular and the beach is one of the best places to see them. Some of the best beaches to visit are Pantai (beach), Berakas, Meragang, Tanjung batu and Muara.
Have an Adventure with Kingdom Rides
Fancy a bit of an adventure? Contact Kingdom Rides for a tour of the best trails in Brunei on a mountain bike. They tailor the best off-road adventures to give you an experience of Brunei you will never forget. Suitable for all levels.
Check Out Lake Lugu
A small crystal-clear lake, this is a hidden gem. Pack snacks and swimmers and head to the lake where you can hire a waterside hut. There are paddleboards and canoes to hire too. Weekends and holidays will be busier with locals but you could turn up and have this spot all to yourself!
Learn to scuba/snorkel
Whether you’re a beginner, advanced or technical diver, Brunei is a great place to scuba dive. With over 60 sites to dive, you won’t have the crowds like other sites in South East Asia but you can still see some amazing wildlife such as barracudas, turtles, eels, nudibranchs to name a few.
It hasn’t yet hit the radar of the scuba community but Brunei is a hotspot for shipwreck diving. Wrecks from Japan’s occupation in World War II have turned into artificial reefs with thriving marine life. It’s also great for those macro enthusiasts.
If you’re interested in scuba diving in Brunei, it’s a great place to get started and offers great rates. The dives sites are also not far from the mainland and easily accessible.
Brunei is known as one of the richest countries in the world thanks to its abundant supply of oil, so if you want to experience some of that wealth first hand, check out the recommendations below.
Have Fun at the Empire Hotel
Sultan Bolkiah often makes the world’s richest list and there will be evidence of some this spending around the country. While the spending seems to have calmed a little as the Sultan has got older, The Empire hotel has to visited to experience a taste of luxury.
Boasting to be one of the few 7-star hotels in the world, it will be pretty clear that no expense was spared on this building. The Empire hotel is free to visit during the day and walk the grounds, you can also purchase a day pass to experience the pool and some of the facilities.
Visit Jerudong park
Jerudong Park calls itself Southeast Asia’s best amusement park. Notice I said calls itself. It definitely isn’t! BUT it is one of the best amusement parks to visit and not have to queue for any rides.
Brunei’s government spent over $1 billion USD to create it. It has a great waterpark for kids too. Check opening times and prayer times before you visit.
Click here for tips on planning your next trip.
Things to Remember When Travelling to Brunei
Brunei is an Islamic country and you should be sure to adhere to the rules and customs.
- Dress appropriately by covering shoulders and knees.
- There is no alcohol available in the country.
- If you are not a Muslim, you can bring in a quota allowance but remember to declare on arrival and complete an orange customs form found in the baggage area.
- Fridays between 12-2pm, everything is shut for people to go to mosque (we mean everything).
- There are very limited public transport options. If you are looking to travel around, I would highly recommend hiring a car.
In conclusion, Brunei is worth a visit, it doesn’t need a long visit but there is plenty to do here for a week if you fancy getting off the beaten track!
About the Author
Boston Tribe Travels are a family of four from the UK who are currently traveling the world full-time; seeking adventure, and chasing time, location and financial freedom.
Their blog started as a place to inspire other families to travel and help others plan their trip. Now, they aim to share their experience and skills with other families and help them to find their own freedom.
Boston Tribe Travels is an inspiring story of a family who is living their dream of traveling the world. They are a great resource for families who are considering their own world travel adventure.