Things To Do
in Brunei
Brunei is a small, oil-rich sultanate located on the northern coast of Borneo, renowned for its pristine rainforests and opulent mosques. It blends Malay culture with Islamic heritage and a modern, high-standard of living. The capital Bandar Seri Begawan sits along the Brunei River, where royal landmarks and traditional water villages mingle with contemporary attractions.
Visitors will find a country that rewards calm exploration, lush nature, and refined cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk along the waterways of the city, enjoying the fresh morning air and views of traditional water villages. Don’t forget to capture some photographs to immortalize this breathtaking site.
Savor a local lunch in one of the nearby restaurants, where you can indulge in traditional Bruneian dishes such as Nasi Katok. After lunch, visit the Royal Regalia Museum to learn about the history and culture of Brunei through its impressive collection of royal artifacts. The museum's exhibits will provide valuable insights into the Sultanate's rich heritage.
As dusk falls, take a peaceful boat ride along the Brunei River, enjoying the beautiful city skyline. Witness the sunset reflecting on the water before heading to a local night market to sample delicious street food. Engage with friendly locals and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the marketplace.
Embark on an early morning adventure to Ulu Temburong National Park, known as the 'Green Jewel of Brunei.' Take a boat ride through the mangroves to reach the park, surrounded by stunning rainforest views. Once there, ascend the canopy walkway for breathtaking vistas of the lush flora and fauna below.
After exploring the heights of the canopy, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, taking in the tranquility of your surroundings. Spend the afternoon hiking through well-marked trails, observing wildlife and the diverse ecosystems of the park. Capture unforgettable moments with the stunning biodiversity that this pristine area has to offer.
Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening after a day filled with adventure. Share stories with fellow travelers about your experiences in the park and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local eatery. Consider reading or reflecting on the day while listening to the sounds of nature surrounding you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in city center | $70-150 |
| 🚕Taxi (1-5 km ride) | $3-8 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent safety and clean environment
- Rich cultural heritage and stunning water villages
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller international flight connections compared to larger hubs
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sila" - Please / Kindly
- "Di mana ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Awak boleh bercakap English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Air" - Water
- "Sedap" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Brunei
Visit one of these nice places.
A photogenic landmark with gold domes and an island setting; best shots are at sunrise or golden hour from the riverfront.
Stilt houses lining the Brunei River provide dynamic photos from the water or elevated viewpoints; dusk offers dramatic lighting.
The world’s largest residential palace; exterior viewpoints across the river yield striking royal architecture shots.
Impressive ceremonial artifacts and grand halls provide regal, museum-quality photography opportunities.
An ornate mosque with intricate tilework and fountains; capturing the façade at sundown is particularly striking.
Golden reflections on the water and traditional boats create serene river-scape compositions.
Food in Brunei
Brunei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A starchy, gluey ball served with a variety of dipping sauces; best experienced at local eateries that specialize in Bruneian fare.
Must-Try!
Simple local rice with fried chicken, a beloved everyday Bruneian staple found in casual eateries across the country.
Char-grilled fish marinated with spices and served with sambal and rice; widely available at seaside stalls and restaurants.
Sticky rice wrap with filling, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal and sold at markets.
Shrimp cooked in a spicy chili paste; a common pairing with rice in Brunei’s Malay households and eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market by the river where you can sample snacks, shop for local produce, and observe daily Bruneian life.
Market featuring local foods and crafts from the Tutong district, offering a glimpse into regional Bruneian flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially in religious sites. Dress respectfully during Ramadan, and remove shoes when entering mosques in designated areas. Use the right hand for giving or receiving items and avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Brunei is predominantly Muslim; be mindful of prayer times and halal practices in eateries and shops. Refrain from consuming alcohol in public places outside licensed venues.
Safety
Tipping in Brunei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Brunei, and service charges are often included in bills. If you do tip, it should be modest and discreet, typically in hotels or higher-end restaurants.
Cash in Brunei Dollar (BND) is widely accepted, with many places also taking major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard). ATMs are common in urban centers. Contactless payments are increasingly available in hotels and some shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Brunei experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity year-round and frequent rain. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a lightweight rain jacket, and insect repellent. The rainy spells can be sudden, so keep a compact umbrella handy. For outdoor activities, early mornings tend to be cooler and drier, while afternoons can bring heavy showers.
Brunei at Night
Hiking in Brunei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with a chance to encounter primates, birds, and rich rainforest biodiversity; a premier Bruneian hiking experience.
Accessible city-adjacent forest paths offering moderate hikes and viewpoints over the landscape.
Airports
How to reach Brunei by plane.
The main international gateway near Bandar Seri Begawan, with domestic and regional flights and services to major hubs in Southeast Asia.
Located on Labuan Island, Malaysia, offering regional connections; accessible for short trips from Brunei via ferry or land routes.
Shells out regional flights in northern Sarawak; useful for short cross-border itineraries and diversifying travel routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group and the majority of the Muslim population, shaping the country’s culture and traditions.
A significant minority community contributing to commerce, cuisine, and cultural exchange.
Communities such as Dusun and Kedayan, among others, with distinct histories and cultural practices.
A growing number of foreign residents in business and education sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and community leagues are common in urban centers.
A popular sport in schools and clubs, with public and private facilities available.
Cultural martial arts practiced in community events and performances.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Inform servers about no meat or fish; request vegetable-based dishes and ask for sauces to be prepared without shrimp paste or animal products. Many eateries can accommodate with vegetable curries, tofu dishes, and salads.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brunei.