ISO: BN
Brunei Darussalam, a small Southeast Asian nation on the island of Borneo, offers a blend of rich Islamic culture and natural beauty. The capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, is home to majestic mosques, including the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, a symbol of Brunei’s devotion to Islam. Explore the Kampong Ayer, a traditional water village, and visit the Royal Regalia Museum to glimpse the Sultan’s opulent treasures.
The pristine rainforests of Brunei, protected within Ulu Temburong National Park, provide opportunities for jungle treks, river cruises, and canopy walks. The country’s lush landscapes are also home to diverse wildlife, from proboscis monkeys to hornbills. Brunei’s warm and welcoming people, along with the chance to savor local cuisine like nasi katok (rice with fried chicken), make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both cultural and natural experiences.
Cities in Brunei Darussalam
No related cities found.
Travel Risk Levels Brunei Darussalam
Overall Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Brunei is often considered a safe travel destination with low crime rates. However, visitors should still exercise regular precautions.
Transport and Taxi Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Transport facilities in Brunei are well-developed. Taxis and buses are reliable, though it's always good practice to use registered taxis and agree on fares beforehand.
Pickpocket Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Pickpocketing is uncommon, but like anywhere, it's wise to be cautious in crowded places or touristy areas.
Physical Crime Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Brunei is generally safe with low crime rates. Violent crimes against tourists are rare. However, travelers should always exercise general precautions, especially when out at night.
Natural Disaster Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Brunei is not typically prone to major natural disasters. Occasional heavy rains may lead to flooding in some areas.
Terrorism Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Terrorist attacks in Brunei are rare, but travelers should always stay informed about global events.
Scams Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Scams are not common in Brunei, but travelers should be wary of too-good-to-be-true offers or unsolicited deals.
Women Travelers Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Brunei is safe for women travelers, but it's advisable to dress modestly and respect the local customs.
Tap Water Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Medium
While tap water in urban areas is generally safe to drink, travelers are often advised to opt for bottled water, especially outside the capital.
Public Behavior Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Medium
With strict adherence to Islamic laws, public behavior in Brunei is more conservative. Alcohol is prohibited, and public displays of affection are frowned upon.
LGBTQ Acceptance Risk Brunei Darussalam:
High
LGBTQ+ rights are limited in Brunei. The country has strict laws against same-sex relations, and LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme caution.
Police and Officials Corruption Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Corruption is not a common issue encountered by tourists in Brunei. Officials generally uphold a high standard of conduct.
Business Risk Brunei Darussalam:
Low
Brunei offers a stable business environment, though it's crucial to understand and respect local business customs and religious practices.
An example of something bad that can happen travelling to Brunei Darussalam
Unintended Offense: A Cultural Misstep in Brunei
On her first trip to Southeast Asia, Sarah, a travel blogger from Canada, had planned to capture the unique essence of each country she visited. Brunei, with its opulent mosques and pristine rainforests, was on her list. Excitedly, she began her journey by exploring the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan.
One evening, she decided to dine at a local eatery. Wanting to immerse herself in the culture, she ordered a popular dish and paired it with a beverage she assumed was a common local drink. To her surprise, when she attempted to toast with her drink, the atmosphere at the eatery shifted. The friendly faces around her turned into expressions of shock and disapproval.
Unknowingly, Sarah had ordered an alcoholic beverage. Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Brunei due to its Islamic laws, and her innocent attempt to toast was seen as a grave cultural misstep. A kind local, sensing her confusion, discreetly explained the situation to her, allowing Sarah to quickly apologize to the eatery's staff.
Although her trip continued without further incidents, the experience served as a poignant lesson. Sarah realized the importance of understanding and respecting local customs, especially in countries with strict cultural and religious practices. She made it a point to better educate herself about the destinations she visited, ensuring she could appreciate the beauty and depth of each place without unintentionally causing offense.
Safe Places
Be advised this list does not advise the cities/towns are safe for all tourists, safety is still relative to the country itself.
What are the safest places to visit in Brunei Darussalam?
- Bandar Seri Begawan: The capital city offers the majestic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Royal Regalia Museum, and the Kampong Ayer floating village.
- Tutong: A coastal district that features unspoiled beaches and offers a window into the authentic Bruneian lifestyle.
- Temburong District: Perfect for nature lovers with its lush rainforests, the Ulu Temburong National Park, and eco-tourism adventures.
Travel Tips
Useful Tips When Travelling in Brunei Darussalam
Currency: The official currency is the Bruneian Dollar (BND). ATMs are readily available in urban areas, and most major credit cards are accepted in hotels and shopping centers. It's worth noting that the Bruneian Dollar is interchangeable with the Singapore Dollar at par.
Language: Malay is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in business and tourism sectors. Basic Malay phrases, however, can be appreciated by locals.
Historical Sites: Visit the Royal Regalia Museum in Bandar Seri Begawan to gain insights into Brunei's royal history. Kampong Ayer, the world's largest water village, offers a glimpse into traditional Bruneian life.
Visas: Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries are allowed visa-free entry for short stays. However, always check ahead and ensure you have the necessary travel documents.
Local Etiquette: Brunei is a conservative Muslim country. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. During the fasting month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day.
Top Attractions: Don't miss the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque for their architectural magnificence. For nature lovers, the Ulu Temburong National Park offers pristine rainforests and diverse wildlife.
Connectivity: Mobile coverage is extensive with 4G services available. Wi-Fi is accessible in hotels, cafes, and some public areas. Tourists can also easily purchase local SIM cards for data and calls.
Weather
Annual weather in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
Brunei Darussalam has a tropical climate, with hot, humid weather and heavy rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature in Brunei Darussalam ranges from 25°C (77°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in August. The wettest months are November to March, when rainfall can average over 300mm (12 inches) per month. The weather in Brunei Darussalam can feel very hot and humid, especially during the summer months. It is important to stay hydrated and wear light, comfortable clothing when spending time outdoors.
| Month |
Avg Temp (°C) |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Avg Rain (mm) |
| January |
26 |
78.8 |
272 |
| February |
26 |
78.8 |
149 |
| March |
27 |
80.6 |
163 |
| April |
28 |
82.4 |
178 |
| May |
28 |
82.4 |
|
| June |
28 |
82.4 |
174 |
| July |
28 |
82.4 |
|
| August |
28 |
82.4 |
|
| September |
28 |
82.4 |
259 |
| October |
28 |
82.4 |
282 |
| November |
27 |
80.6 |
312 |
| December |
27 |
80.6 |
315 |
