Brunei Darussalam 6 Day Itinerary

6 Day Brunei Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & Bandar Seri Begawan Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Brunei International Airport (BNN) in Bandar Seri Begawan. Most international flights arrive through Royal Brunei Airlines, so you’ll likely be flying with them.

    • Things to know:
      • Brunei uses the Brunei dollar (BND), which is pegged to the Singapore dollar.
      • The official language is Malay, but English is widely spoken.
      • Be prepared for hot and humid weather. Dress modestly, especially in public areas.

  • Visa requirements: Check if you need a visa based on your nationality. Many nationalities can enter Brunei visa-free for tourism purposes up to 90 days. You can find the most up-to-date information on the Immigration and Emigration Department of Brunei website.

  • Transportation:

    • Airport Transfer: Consider pre-booking a taxi or airport transfer from your hotel or accommodation.

  • Afternoon: Explore Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city:

    • Visit the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of Southeast Asia’s most impressive mosques with its beautiful golden dome.
    • Stroll through the Kampong Ayer (Water Village), a unique experience of visiting a village built entirely on stilts above the Brunei River.
    • Optional: Consider a boat tour of the river and the surrounding mangrove forests.

Day 2: History & Tradition

  • Morning:
    • Travel to the Royal Regalia Museum, a museum showcasing the opulent lifestyle of the Sultan and the history of Brunei.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Kampong Sungai Kebun Arts & Crafts Center, where you can learn about traditional Bruneian crafts and even participate in workshops.

Things to note:

  • Currency: Most shops and restaurants accept both BND and SGD (Singapore Dollar) as payment.
  • Transportation: Taxis are readily available, but consider a local bus or water taxi for a more immersive experience and a chance to interact with Bruneians.

Day 3: Nature & Wildlife

  • Morning: Visit the Brunei Museum to explore the history of Brunei’s culture and traditions through its exhibits.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the Brunei River in the afternoon, taking in the scenic views and learning about the unique Water Village, (Kampong Sungai) lifestyle.

Things to note:

Day 4: Culture & Cuisine

  • Morning: Take a cooking class in Bandar Seri Begawan.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien (SOAS) Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel, and explore its historical and cultural significance.

Things to note:

  • Cooking Class:
    • Book ahead: Many restaurants and cooking schools offer these experiences, but it’s best to call ahead and inquire about availability and booking procedures.
  • Dress code: Respect the dress code for the SOAS Mosque.

Day 5: Exploring the Past

  • Morning: Visit the [Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque** in Bandar Seri Begawan.

  • Afternoon: Explore the [Bandar Seri Begawan Waterfront** with a visit to the Brunei History Center, which offers exhibitions and information about Brunei’s rich history.

  • Things to note:

    • Respectful attire: Wear modest clothing for the mosque (covered shoulders and knees).

Day 6: Farewell Brunei

  • Depart from Brunei International Airport: Enjoy a final breakfast with a view before heading to the airport.

Things to note:

  • Transportation: Arrange transportation to the airport in advance, as the journey is about 30 minutes by car.
  • Check-out: Ensure you check out of your hotel or accommodation and allow for ample travel time to the airport due to potential traffic.

Note: This is just a general example. You can tailor it based on your interests and time constraints.

For example, if you’re interested in the natural beauty of Brunei, you could consider:

  • Day 1:

  • Activity: Visit the National Museum and explore the history of the Sultanate.

  • Transportation: Take a boat trip to see the unique “Water Village” (Bandar Seri Begagon) and experience the local culture.

Day 2:

  • Explore the oil and gas industry in Brunei by visiting the Brunei Museum’s exhibits on its history and development, as it plays a crucial role in Brunei’s economy.
  • Transportation: Take a trip to a local market and observe how people live their daily lives.

Things to consider:

  • Time of year: This itinerary can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit Brunei is during the dry season (October - May) as it’s less rainy.
  • Cultural respect: Remember to dress appropriately and learn about and follow local customs when visiting religious sites or public spaces.

Day 3:

  • Explore Kampong Ayer, the world’s largest water village, with its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
  • Things to note:
  • The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Consider learning about the history of the water village before you go

Things to know:

  • Cultural Significance: This itinerary focuses on the cultural and historical aspects of Brunei’s history.
  • Local Guides: Engaging a local guide can enhance your experience, providing insights into the culture and traditions.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Brunei Museum: Explore the exhibits detailing the history of Brunei’s oil and gas industry and its impact on the country.

  • Explore the Water Village: Consider taking a boat tour through this fascinating cultural site.

  • Experience Local Cuisine: Take advantage of the local culinary scene, sampling dishes like Nasi Katok (coconut rice) or trying ambuyat, a traditional dish made from sago starch.

Remember:

  • Bring cash for transportation and small purchases.

  • Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the village.

  • Respect: Respect the cultural sensitivities within the water village and remember to ask permission before taking photos of locals or their homes.

Things to note:

  • Dress code: It’s important to be respectful of the local culture when visiting the village.