Brunei Travel Guide

Highlights

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: standing in the middle of an artificial lagoon, this golden-domed mosque offers a great view of the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, from its towering minaret.

Istana Nurul Iman: this magnificent palace is the home of Brunei’s Sultan, one of the world’s richest men.

Jerudong Theme Park: just a short drive away from the capital, Jerudong Theme Park is famous for its free amusement rides. There’s also a beach nearby.

Kampong Ayer: houses in this charming water village show off traditional Brunei architecture and feature beautiful wooden walkways. It’s easy to get lost, so stay on the tracks and go with a personal guide.

Recommended Itinerary

One day at the Saifuddien Mosque
One day at the Istana Nurul Iman
Two days at Jerudong

Additional time
Two days kampong Ayer

Health and safety

Brunei is a fairly safe country; stringent laws and severe implementation ensure a very low crime rate. There are still occasional muggings and theft, though, so take care of your valuables just the same.

Serious health threats include dengue fever, typhoid, and polio. There was also a recent outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). All water may be contaminated, so drink bottled water. Medical service is excellent, although supplies occasionally run low and complex cases are often evacuated to Singapore.

Brunei Travel

The main airport is located about seven miles from the city, and the national carrier, Royal Brunei Airlines, serves regular flights to many international cities. Taxi services are available at the airport, but there may be additional charges after 10 pm. Hail taxis at the car park for lower rates.

Water taxi is a popular form of local transport, with services to Kampong Ayer, Bandar Seri Begawan, and a number of other cities. The roads are well-developed, although some outbound roads at Sarawak are unpaved. You’ll need an international driving permit to drive a hired car, but international driving licenses are also honored.

When To Go?

Brunei is very hot and humid most of the year, although heavy monsoon rains occur between November and December. The average temperature is about 28oC. Wear light cotton clothing and cool, breathable fabrics, and have waterproof clothing handy at all times. Since weather is fairly consistent, there’s no recommended time to visit, although it’s best to avoid the monsoon season.

Activities

Picnics: Those coming from the Jerudong park can drive straight to the beach for a relaxing picnic, or visit other popular picnic sides like the Luagan Lalak and the Ulu Temburong National Park.

Water sports: Much of the Brunei coastline offers excellent beach facilities and is popular for boating, swimming, and other water sports.

Golf: The Empire Hotel and Country Club has a stylish 18-hole golf course overlooking the South China Sea.

Food and Hospitality

There are many excellent restaurants in the country, as locals love to eat out. The nasi katok, a mix of rice and curried meat, is a must-try for visitors. Note that Brunei is a “dry country” – alcohol selling and consumption is illegal, although Muslims can bring in limited amounts and wines and spirits can be bought at duty-free shops at the Malaysian border.

Mid-range to budget hotels can be found in major cities, but the high-end ones, including some 7-star luxury hotels, are mostly in the capital. Budget hotels are scarce. There are also serviced apartments, whose quality and service are comparable to some of the better hotels.