Road Trips in Brunei

It is best to start your exploration of Brunei from its capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. Here, you’ll be charmed with the beauty of contrasts existing between the excellent mosques and the low housing of water villages. The area around the capital is home to multiple species of animals, including hornbills.

Other notable places to visit during a tour around Brunei are Teraja, a tiny village with only 10 inhabitants, Turon, providing you with the opportunity to explore local cuisine, and Muara, with a stunning and well-maintained beach stretching along the clear waters of the South China Sea.

Here are three of the best road trips in Brunei:

• Temburong District: This scenic road trip takes you through the lush tropical rainforest of Temburong District, home to stunning waterfalls, traditional villages, and stunning nature reserves. You can also visit the Ulu Temburong National Park and take a boat trip up the Temburong River to experience the beauty of the rainforest up close.

• Tutong District: This road trip takes you through the picturesque countryside of Tutong District, with its rolling hills and pristine beaches. You can visit the lush green forest reserves and explore the traditional villages, as well as enjoy the stunning coastline and beach resorts.

• Bandar Seri Begawan: This road trip takes you through the cultural heart of Brunei, the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan. You can visit the famous Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Royal Regalia Museum, and the Brunei Museum, as well as explore the bustling streets of the city center and sample the delicious local cuisine.

Each of these road trips offers a unique and memorable experience, allowing you to explore the best of what Brunei has to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there's a road trip in Brunei to suit your interests and travel style.

Travelling around Brunei will be most convenient thanks to a rental car. There is a wide choice of vehicles waiting for you at the airport. There exist a number of highways in Brunei that are built under dual carriageway standards; therefore, they are well-maintained and rather pleasant to drive along. 

When taking a road trip in Brunei, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Obtain a valid driving license: Visitors from some countries can drive in Brunei with an International Driving Permit. Otherwise, you'll need to obtain a local driving license.

• Plan your route: Brunei is a small country, but there are many scenic routes and attractions to see. Plan your route carefully to make the most of your road trip.

• Take into account the weather: Brunei has a tropical climate, and the weather can be hot and humid, especially during the rainy season. Plan your trip accordingly and carry plenty of water and sun protection.

• Respect local customs and traditions: Brunei is a predominantly Muslim country, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions, such as modest dress and avoiding public displays of affection.

• Drive safely: Brunei has a good road network, but it's important to drive safely, especially in rural areas and on smaller roads. Be aware of other road users and take care when driving in the rainforest and other remote areas.

• Be prepared for emergencies: Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with a spare tire, first aid kit, and other essentials in case of breakdown or emergency.

By following these guidelines and preparing accordingly, you can ensure that your road trip in Brunei is a safe and enjoyable experience.

The best time to take a road trip in Brunei is from March to October. During this period, the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the country's scenic roads, forests, and beaches. The roads are generally in good condition, and there is less risk of heavy rain and flash flooding, making it easier to travel around the country.

However, it is important to note that Brunei has a tropical climate, and temperatures can be hot and humid throughout the year. So, be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, and take breaks from the sun as needed. Additionally, it's a good idea to avoid traveling during the monsoon season, which runs from November to February, as heavy rains can make road conditions difficult and increase the risk of flash floods.

Overall, the best time for a road trip in Brunei depends on your personal preferences and the type of trip you're looking for. If you're looking for a dry, sunny trip with minimal rain, then March to October is the ideal time to visit. If you prefer to avoid the heat and are comfortable with the rain, then you may choose to travel during the monsoon season.

Firstly, it's worth noting that Brunei is a relatively small country, and so a road trip around the country can be completed relatively quickly. As such, the cost of a road trip in Brunei is likely to be less than in larger countries with longer distances to cover.

In terms of accommodation, the cost of a day/week/month per person will depend on the type of accommodation chosen. There are a range of options available in Brunei, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Generally speaking, budget options will cost around $20-30 per night, while mid-range options may cost around $50-70 per night, and luxury options can cost upwards of $100 per night.

As for food and drink, the cost will depend on where you choose to eat. Street food is relatively cheap in Brunei, and you can find a range of local dishes for around $2-3. If you choose to eat in a restaurant, you can expect to pay more, with prices ranging from around $5-10 for a basic meal up to $20-30 for a more upscale experience.

When it comes to renting a car, prices will depend on the type of car you choose and the rental company you use. As with many countries, there are both local and international car rental companies operating in Brunei, and prices can vary between them. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around $30-50 per day to rent a basic car, with prices increasing for more luxurious or high-end options.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Brunei will depend on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to undertake. However, as a relatively small country with a lower cost of living compared to some other destinations, Brunei can be a relatively affordable place to travel.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in Brunei:

• "Brunei Darussalam: A Guide" by David Leffman and Jono Sturt. This guidebook provides an in-depth overview of Brunei's history, culture, and attractions and practical information for travelers, such as accommodation and restaurant recommendations.

• "Brunei, the Abode of Peace" by Sylvia Brunei. This guidebook provides a comprehensive overview of Brunei's history, culture, and natural beauty, with a focus on eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

• "Brunei Darussalam: Guide to Places of Interest" by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. This guidebook is produced by the Brunei government and provides a detailed overview of Brunei's attractions and activities, including national parks, cultural sites, and adventure sports.

• For road maps, you can check out the Brunei Shell Petroleum Road Map, which provides detailed maps of the country's roads, highways, and major attractions. You can also find online maps from Google Maps or other online mapping services.

Remember to always double-check information from different sources and to take note of any changes or updates to road conditions or attractions.