Things To Do
in Brunei
Brunei, officially known as the Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace, is a small, oil-rich monarchy located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. Known for its lush rainforests and pristine beaches, Brunei is also home to a rich Islamic heritage, with stunning mosques and royal palaces. The country is a haven of tranquility and is often overlooked by travelers, providing an intimate glimpse into the life of a sultanate.
With its unique blend of modernity and tradition, Brunei offers a distinctive travel experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the world, followed by a stroll around the nearby Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas park.
Visit the Royal Regalia Museum to learn about Brunei's history and monarchy, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in local cuisine.
Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, then take a relaxing evening walk along the Brunei River, watching the sunset over the water.
Head to Ulu Temburong National Park for a guided eco-tour, where you can explore the rainforest canopy and see diverse wildlife.
Return to Bandar Seri Begawan for a visit to the Kampong Ayer, the water village, experiencing the traditional stilt houses and local lifestyle.
Finish your trip with a cultural performance at the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre, followed by a taste of local street food at a night market.
Prices
Item | Price |
---|---|
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5-10 |
🚖Taxi fare (short distance) | $2-5 |
🛍️Souvenir | $10-30 |
☕Coffee | $2-4 |
🍺Beer (local) | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Stunning natural landscapes and national parks
- Safe and peaceful environment for visitors
- Limited nightlife options
- Higher costs compared to neighboring countries
- Less tourist infrastructure and amenities
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please
- "Maaf" - Sorry
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Brunei
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning mosque, with its golden dome and serene setting, offers breathtaking photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The water village presents a unique perspective of traditional Bruneian life, with colorful stilt houses perfect for capturing the essence of the culture.
Home to pristine rainforests and diverse wildlife, this park provides numerous scenic views and natural beauty ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Brunei
Brunei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A simple yet satisfying dish of rice served with fried chicken and sambal, often enjoyed as a quick meal.
Must-Try!
A traditional Bruneian dish made from the sago palm, served with a variety of dipping sauces, offering a unique texture.
Grilled skewered meat served with peanut sauce, a popular snack or meal, especially during gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food, ideal for tasting authentic Bruneian flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
As a Muslim-majority country, it is respectful to wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.
A handshake is common, but wait for the other person to extend their hand first, particularly among women.
Be mindful of religious practices, particularly during prayer times and Ramadan, and avoid public displays of affection.
Safety
Tipping in Brunei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Brunei, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, leaving small change for good service is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for local markets and smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's natural beauty.
Experience heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms, which can limit outdoor excursions but offers a lush landscape.
During this holy month, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk, and many restaurants may have altered hours. It's respectful to avoid eating in public during the day.
These festivals bring vibrant celebrations, parades, and special foods, making it a lively time to visit.
Brunei at Night
Hiking in Brunei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This trail offers scenic views of the surrounding rainforest and the South China Sea, providing a moderate hike suitable for nature lovers.
Home to one of Brunei's largest lakes, this hiking trail takes you through dense forest to enjoy the serene beauty of the area.
Airports
How to reach Brunei by plane.
Located approximately 10 km from the capital, this airport serves as the main international gateway to Brunei, with connections to various regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, comprising about two-thirds of the population, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
The second-largest ethnic group in Brunei, contributing significantly to the business sector and cultural diversity of the country.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Brunei, with local leagues and teams garnering significant support from fans.
Badminton enjoys popularity among locals, with many recreational facilities available for play and competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Brunei is a Muslim-majority country, and most food is Halal. However, it's always good to confirm with restaurant staff.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brunei.