Brunei Darussalam travel guide
Brunei Darussalam Tourism | Brunei Darussalam Guide
You're Going to Love Brunei Darussalam
A conservative sultanate, Brunei Darussalam as a tourist destination is best-known for its old and massive forests, perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
What to do in Brunei Darussalam
1. Explore the Ulu Temburong National Park
Virtually untouched rainforest and wildlife are one of the main attractions of the Ulu Temburong National Park. Preserving this area is important to Brunei Darussalam, which is why tourists are only allowed in a small portion of the park and must visit as part of a pre-booked guided tour.
2. See Some of Asia's Most Beautiful Mosques
Not only is Brunei Darussalam famous for some of the most beautiful mosques in the world, but they open these temples to visitors outside praying time. Omar Ali Saifuddien and Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah are the most-visited mosques in the country.
3. Visit Kampong Ayer
Known as the largest floating village in the world, Kampong Ayer is one of the must-visit locations in Brunei Darussalam.
4. Taste Street Food at Pasar Gadong
From 4:00 pm onward, this market in Brunei Darussalam serves local street food that ranges from the expected rice and noodles to local delicacies like barbecued fish.
5. Visit the Royal Regalia
The museum offers free entrance and gives travelers the chance to find out more about the Sultan. Other must-visit museums include the Brunei Museum and the Malay Technology Museum.
When to visit Brunei Darussalam
February and March are two of the best months to visit Brunei Darussalam. Not only is this the driest time of year, but the country celebrates its National Day on February 23.
How to Get to Brunei Darussalam
Entry requirements
Nationals from European Union countries and the United States don't need a visa to enter Brunei Darussalam and they can stay for up to 90 days.
Citizens from Canada and New Zealand can also enter visa-free. Canadians can stay for up to 14 days, while New Zealanders can stay for up to 30 days. Australian citizens need a visa on arrival, issued at the airport and valid for up to one month.
Plane
All flights land at the Brunei International Airport. Daily connections are frequent between Brunei Darussalam and London, Hong Kong, Melbourne, and Singapore. Passengers traveling from other destinations should expect at least one layover.
Car
It's possible to travel into Brunei Darussalam by car from Sarawak (Malaysia), but immigration lines are usually long and border checkpoints are not open 24h.
Bus
There are regular buses connecting Limbang and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia to Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei Darussalam. Most buses depart early, at around 8:00 am. The bus ride takes about 9h.
Boat
There are several daily ferries to Brunei Darussalam departing from Labuan or Sarawak in Malaysia. Ferries dock at the Sarasa Ferry Terminal, approximately 30min by car from the center of the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan.
Popular airports in Brunei Darussalam
Popular airlines serving Brunei Darussalam
Where to stay in Brunei Darussalam
Accommodation in Brunei Darussalam ranges from all sorts of hotels in the capital city to accommodations at the rainforest near the national parks. For a more authentic experience, look for homestays with local families.
Where to stay in popular areas of Brunei Darussalam
How to Get Around Brunei Darussalam
Public Transportation
Public transportation in Brunei Darussalam is limited to a semi-reliable network of public buses. The buses are operated by different companies and they only run from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Bus
Buses are more used by tourists than by locals, and the network isn't the most efficient. Nevertheless, buses charge a flat fee of around B$1 ($0.73) per ticket and it's an affordable way to get around.
Car
Renting a car is worth it if planning to explore Brunei Darussalam beyond the capital city.
Car rental companies require a valid driver's license from your country of origin and an International Driving Permit. If not used to driving on the left side of the road, rent a car with a driver instead.
Best car hire deals in Brunei Darussalam
Compact
4 Adults, 2 Bags
RM 254/day
The Cost of Living in Brunei Darussalam
The currency is the Brunei Dollar. Credit cards are accepted in major chain hotels and restaurants. ATMs are widely available in the capital city and other major towns. Shopping for daily milk, bread, fruit, and vegetables costs around B$24 ($18).