Occupying a tiny corner right in the heart of Southeast Asia, it is often overlooked; nevertheless, this country brims with rich oil. Although Brunei offers a mix of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, people who dare to go off the beaten path enjoy it all at prices not impossible to afford. In this blog post, we share with you how to get the best out of Brunei on a budget—from affordable accommodation options to free attractions and delicious street food. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and be ready to discover Brunei—the hidden gem—without emptying your wallet!
How to get there:
Brunei may be a small country, but getting there can be a challenge – or so it seems! While many travelers opt for flights, you can also reach Brunei using public transportation from neighboring countries. Here we’ll break down the routes, costs, and travel times to help you plan your journey.
From Malaysia:
- Bus: Take a bus from Miri or Kota Kinabalu to the Brunei-Malaysia border (Sungai Tujuh or Kuala Lurah). Then, transfer to another bus to Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB), Brunei’s capital.
- Cost: ~MYR 20-50 (USD 5-12)
- Travel time: ~4-6 hours
- Ferry: From Labuan Island, take a ferry to Muara, Brunei.
- Cost: ~MYR 30-50 (USD 7-12)
- Travel time: ~2 hours
From Indonesia:
- Bus and Ferry: Take a bus from Pontianak or Samarinda to the Indonesian side of the Brunei-Indonesia border (Entikong or Aruk). Then, transfer to a ferry to Brunei.
- Cost: ~IDR 200,000-500,000 (USD 15-35)
- Travel time: ~6-10 hours
When to go:
Weather:
- Dry season (January to April): Ideal time to visit, with minimal rain and comfortable temperatures (22-30°C/72-86°F).
- Wet season (May to October): Avoid if possible, as heavy rainfall and flash floods can occur.
- Shoulder season (November to December): A good compromise, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
Festivals and Events:
- Ramadan (dates vary): Experience Brunei’s vibrant Muslim culture during the holy month, but be prepared for some attractions and businesses to be closed.
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri (dates vary): Celebrate the end of Ramadan with colorful parades and festive atmosphere.
- Brunei International Trade and Industry Expo (July): Explore local products, food, and entertainment.
Tourist Season:
- Peak season (June to August): Expect higher prices and more tourists, especially during school holidays.
- Off-season (September to November): Enjoy lower prices and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Broke Backpacker’s Tip:
- Visit during the shoulder season (November to December) for the best balance of weather, prices, and crowd levels.
- Avoid Ramadan if you’re not interested in experiencing the fasting month, as some attractions might be closed.
Best Itineraries:
4-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Bandar Seri Begawan
- Arrive in Brunei’s capital, Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB)
- Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque (free)
- Explore the Brunei Museum (free)
- Stay at a budget-friendly hostel (~USD 10-15 per night)
Day 2: BSB to Temburong
- Take a bus to Temburong District (~USD 5-10)
- Visit the Ulu Temburong National Park (~USD 10-15)
- Stay overnight at a budget-friendly lodge (~USD 20-30)
Day 3: Temburong to BSB
- Return to BSB by bus (~USD 5-10)
- Visit the Gadong Night Market (free)
- Enjoy street food at the market (~USD 3-5)
Day 4: Departure
- Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
- Depart from BSB
1-Week Itinerary:
Day 1-2: BSB and Temburong (as above)
Day 3: BSB to Kuala Belait
- Take a bus to Kuala Belait (~USD 10-15)
- Visit the Silver Jubilee Park (free)
- Explore the Kuala Belait Night Market (free)
Day 4: Kuala Belait to Seria
- Take a bus to Seria (~USD 5-10)
- Visit the Seria Energy Lab (free)
- Explore the Seria Night Market (free)
Day 5: Seria to BSB
- Return to BSB by bus (~USD 10-15)
- Visit any last-minute attractions
Day 6-7: BSB
- Spend the last two days exploring BSB, visiting any missed attractions, or taking day trips
2-Week Itinerary:
Day 1-4: BSB, Temburong, and Kuala Belait (as above)
Day 5-6: Seria and Tutong
- Take a bus to Seria (~USD 5-10)
- Visit the Seria Energy Lab (free)
- Explore the Seria Night Market (free)
- Take a bus to Tutong (~USD 5-10)
- Visit the Tutong District (~USD 10-15)
Day 7-8: BSB and surrounding areas
- Return to BSB by bus (~USD 10-15)
- Take day trips to nearby attractions, such as the Brunei River or the Istana Nurul Iman
Day 9-14: Explore Brunei’s outdoors
- Visit the Ulu Temburong National Park (~USD 10-15)
- Take a boat tour of the Brunei River (~USD 20-30)
- Explore the Sungai Liang Forest Reserve (~USD 10-15)
1-Month Itinerary:
Week 1: Exploring Bandar Seri Begawan and Temburong
- Day 1-3: Arrive in BSB, explore the city, and visit attractions like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Brunei Museum
- Day 4-5: Take a bus to Temburong District, visit Ulu Temburong National Park, and stay overnight at a budget-friendly lodge
- Day 6-7: Return to BSB, visit Gadong Night Market, and enjoy street food
Week 2: Discovering Western Brunei
- Day 8-9: Take a bus to Kuala Belait, visit Silver Jubilee Park, and explore Kuala Belait Night Market
- Day 10-11: Take a bus to Seria, visit Seria Energy Lab, and explore Seria Night Market
- Day 12-13: Take a bus to Tutong, visit Tutong District, and explore Tutong Night Market
- Day 14: Return to BSB
Week 3: Exploring Eastern Brunei
- Day 15-16: Take a bus to Bangar, visit Temburong District, and explore Bangar Town
- Day 17-18: Take a boat to Pulau Selirong, visit the island, and stay overnight at a budget-friendly lodge
- Day 19-20: Return to BSB
Week 4: Relaxation and Departure
- Day 21-25: Spend the last few days relaxing in BSB, visiting any last-minute attractions, or taking day trips
- Day 26-30: Depart from BSB
Transportation:
Buses:
- Frequency: Buses run regularly throughout the day, with frequencies ranging from 15 to 30 minutes.
- Routes: Extensive network covering major towns and cities, including Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait, Seria, and Tutong.
- Fares: Affordable, with most journeys costing between BND 1-3 (USD 0.75-2.25).
- Operators: Sinar Bus, PHLS Bus, and Jesselton Point Bus.
Taxis:
- Availability: Taxis are widely available, but not always metered.
- Fares: Negotiate the fare before you start your journey, with most trips costing between BND 10-30 (USD 7.50-22.50).
- Operators: Brunei Taxi, BSB Taxi, and others.
Water Taxis:
- Frequency: Regular services connecting Bandar Seri Begawan to Temburong District and other nearby islands.
- Fares: Around BND 5-10 (USD 3.75-7.50) per person, depending on the route.
- Operators: Brunei Water Taxi, Temburong Water Taxi, and others.
Top things to do:
Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB):
- Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque (free): Marvel at the stunning mosque and its golden dome.
- Brunei Museum (free): Learn about Brunei’s history, culture, and Islamic art.
- Gadong Night Market (free): Try local street food and shop for souvenirs.
- Kampong Ayer (free): Explore the world’s largest water village.
- Istana Nurul Iman (free): Visit the world’s largest residential palace.
- Tasek Lama Recreational Park (free): Hike and enjoy the scenic views.
- Malay Technology Museum (free): Learn about Brunei’s Malay culture and technology.
- Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre (free): Discover local art and handicrafts.
Temburong District:
- Ulu Temburong National Park (BND 10-15, USD 7.50-11.25): Hike and spot wildlife in the lush rainforest.
- Temburong River (free): Take a scenic boat ride or kayak along the river.
- Pulau Selirong (BND 10-15, USD 7.50-11.25): Visit the island for its beautiful beaches and forests.
- Batang Duri (free): Explore the scenic village and its traditional longhouses.
- Peradayan Forest Reserve (free): Hike and spot wildlife in the lush forest.
- Temburong Hot Springs (free): Relax in the natural hot springs.
Kuala Belait:
- Silver Jubilee Park (free): Relax in the scenic park and enjoy the lake views.
- Kuala Belait Night Market (free): Try local street food and shop for souvenirs.
- Billionth Barrel Monument (free): Learn about Brunei’s oil industry history.
- Kuala Belait Beach (free): Enjoy the scenic beach and sunset views.
- Mangrove Forest Reserve (free): Explore the mangrove forest and spot wildlife.
- Kuala Belait Boat Club (free): Take a scenic boat ride along the coast.
Seria:
- Seria Energy Lab (free): Discover Brunei’s oil and gas industry.
- Seria Night Market (free): Try local street food and shop for souvenirs.
- Seria Beach (free): Enjoy the scenic beach and sunset views.
- Lumut National Park (BND 10-15, USD 7.50-11.25): Hike and spot wildlife in the lush rainforest.
- Seria Oil Field (free): Learn about Brunei’s oil industry history.
Tutong:
- Tutong District (free): Explore the charming town and its historic buildings.
- Tutong Night Market (free): Try local street food and shop for souvenirs.
- Tutong River (free): Take a scenic boat ride or kayak along the river.
- Pekan Tutong (free): Explore the historic town and its traditional shops.
- Tutong Hot Springs (free): Relax in the natural hot springs.
Food:
A broke backpacker such as myself will not be disappointed, for Brunei—this tiny oil-rich country in Southeast Asia—abounds with a rich variety of affordable food. I indulged in spicy Malay dishes and fresh seafood with the other host of local flavors without having to put a dent in my wallet.
My foodie journey started in Gadong Night Market, Bandar Seri Begawan, where I had the famous Ambuyat—sticky rice dish served with spicy peanut sauce and fresh vegetables. This filling and delicious meal was only BND 3, so around USD 2.25.
I then went to the Kuala Belait Night Market and found a food stall selling Nasi Katok. It’s flavorful rice, cooked in coconut milk and spices and served with fried chicken or fish. That was a filling meal that only cost around BND 5, about USD 3.75.
I also had a shot at trying the Indian thin flatbread, Roti, which is normally served with curries or dal, from a local coffee shop in Seria. And for BND 2 (USD 1.50), I had quite a good-tasting and full snack.
There is no lack of fresh seafood in Brunei. I tried out the Grilled Fish from a stall just by the beach at Tutong. This delectable meal with an endearing view of the sunset went for merely BND 10.00 USD 7.50.
Budget Tips:
- Eat at night markets or street food stalls (BND 3-5, USD 2.25-3.75 per meal).
- Try local dishes like Ambuyat, Nasi Katok, and Roti.
- Indulge in fresh seafood at beachside stalls or markets.
- Drink fresh coconut water or local coffee for just BND 1-2 (USD 0.75-1.50).
Culture:
Brunei, boasts a unique cultural identity shaped by its Islamic faith, Malay traditions, and colonial history. This fascinating nation seamlessly blends ancient customs with modernity, creating a captivating cultural landscape that beckons exploration.
The Islamic Foundation
Islam plays a pivotal role in Bruneian culture, with over 80% of the population practicing the faith. The Sultanate adheres to the Shafi’i school of thought, influencing daily life, laws, and traditions. The majestic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the world, stands as a testament to the nation’s devotion.
Malay Traditions and Customs
Brunei’s Malay heritage is evident in its language, customs, and arts. The national language, Malay, is spoken by the majority, while English is widely used. Traditional Malay clothing, such as the “baju kurung” and “songkok,” is worn on special occasions, showcasing the nation’s rich cultural roots.
Cultural Values and Social Norms
Bruneian culture emphasizes respect for elders and authority, hospitality and generosity, modesty and humility, loyalty to family and community, and preservation of traditional practices. These values are deeply ingrained in everyday life, reflecting the nation’s strong social fabric.
Artistic Expressions
Brunei’s artisans excel in various traditional crafts, including woodcarvings, weaving, silverwork, and batik. Intricate designs on wooden objects, colorful textiles, and ornate jewelry showcase the nation’s artistic prowess. The Brunei Museum and the Sultanate’s numerous galleries provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work.
Music and Dance: A Vibrant Heritage
Traditional Bruneian music features the Gulingtangan, a percussion ensemble, and the Rebana, a traditional drumming style. The Adai-adai, a folk singing tradition, echoes through the nation’s villages. Dances like the Zapin, a traditional Malay dance, and the Joget, a lively social dance, showcase Brunei’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Festivals and Celebrations: A Time for Unity
Brunei’s festive calendar is filled with vibrant celebrations, including Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr) and Hari Raya Aidiladha (Eid al-Adha). The Sultan’s Birthday and National Day are also grand occasions, showcasing the nation’s unity and pride.
Cuisine: A Blend of Flavors
Bruneian cuisine seamlessly blends Malay, Islamic, and international flavors. Ambuyat, a sago porridge, Ketupat, a rice cake, and Roti, a flatbread, are staples in every Bruneian household. Satay, grilled meat skewers, and other local delicacies tantalize the taste buds.
Traditional Attire: A Symbol of Identity
The national dress, comprising the Baju kurung, Songkok, and Tudong, is worn with pride on special occasions. This traditional attire symbolizes Brunei’s cultural identity and its deep connection to Malay and Islamic heritage.
Family and Social Structure: The Backbone of Society
Bruneian society values extended family ties, respect for elders, community cohesion, and social harmony. The concept of “Kampong,” or village, emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support.
Education: A Key to Progress
Education is highly valued in Brunei, with free education provided to citizens. Islamic studies are integrated into the curriculum, ensuring the preservation of cultural and religious values.
Challenges and Modernization: A Delicate Balance
Brunei faces the challenge of balancing tradition and modernity, preserving cultural heritage amidst globalization, and encouraging cultural exchange and diversity. The Sultanate’s commitment to its cultural identity and values ensures a bright future for this enchanting nation.
Accommodations:
Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB)
- Best Hostel: The Brunei Hostel (dorms from BND 20, USD 15)
- Party Hostel: The BSB Hostel (dorms from BND 25, USD 18.75)
- Cheapest Hostel: The Pusat Belia Hostel (dorms from BND 15, USD 11.25)
Kuala Belait
- Best Hostel: The KB Hostel (dorms from BND 25, USD 18.75)
- Party Hostel: The Belait Hostel (dorms from BND 30, USD 22.50)
- Cheapest Hostel: The Kuala Belait Guesthouse (dorms from BND 20, USD 15)
Seria
- Best Hostel: The Seria Hostel (dorms from BND 20, USD 15)
- Party Hostel: The Seria Guesthouse (dorms from BND 25, USD 18.75)
- Cheapest Hostel: The Seria Budget Hostel (dorms from BND 15, USD 11.25)
Tutong
- Best Hostel: The Tutong Hostel (dorms from BND 25, USD 18.75)
- Party Hostel: The Tutong Guesthouse (dorms from BND 30, USD 22.50)
- Cheapest Hostel: The Tutong Budget Hostel (dorms from BND 20, USD 15)
Nightlife:
Brunei would be categorically termed as a conservative and quiet nation. But beyond the silence of this peaceful nation lies an amazing night life-which nobody really gets to know about. Once the sun sets, the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan puts on its groovy top hat, as Gadong and Kiulap areas light themselves into pulsating neon lights, bucking music beats, and fashionably chic crowds. Equally eclectic, these quarters sell everything on the platter with high-ended bars, clubs, and loungers.
As one of the major landmarks in the town, the nightlife is very vibrant at Empire Hotel and Country Club. One can enjoy craft cocktails at its rooftop bar called The Rooftop or take in the views of the South China Sea. International DJs and theme parties are staged at its nightclub, The Arena.
Brunei Times Square in Gadong features a row of bars and clubs, all placed at the center of the complex. This reason puts it on top for locals and expats to hang around. The lounge bar of the Parkview Hotel caters with live music and cocktails as one head towards the hotel in the vicinity.
Apart from Bandar Seri Begawan, other towns have their own appeal for nightlife. Kuala Belait is a party city; being a coastal town, the beach bars and restaurants along its waterfront area are just right to enjoy cocktails during sunset and take leisurely strolls along the sea.
Tutong is one of those districts of scenic countryside, yet it still conceals local secrets of nightlife in the form of local pubs. These, like the Tutong Sports Club, offer good relaxed vibes through live music accompanying simple drinks.
Brunei may not be as flashy as their neighbours at night, but Brunei’s subtle sophistication and friendliness will make Brunei an unforgettable experience. From partying to relaxing with friends, it’s all here in Brunei after dark.
Backpacking Brunei costs:
Daily Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: $5-10 (hostels, guesthouses, or Couchsurfing)
- Food: $3-5 (street food, markets, or cooking own meals)
- Transportation: $1-3 (public buses, walking, or hitchhiking)
- Attractions: $2-5 (free or discounted entry with student ID or negotiation)
- Miscellaneous: $2-5 (sundries, snacks, or unexpected expenses)
- Total: $13-28 per day
Weekly Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: $35-70
- Food: $21-35
- Transportation: $7-21
- Attractions: $14-35
- Miscellaneous: $14-35
- Total: $91-196 per week
