Arrival and Immigration

Getting Around the City

• Ride-Hailing Apps: Ride-hailing apps are available in Brunei but with limited vehicle supply. It’s recommended to book in advance, and wait times may be longer during peak hours.
• Taxis: Available at the airport and hotels. Hailing one on the street in the city is not easy; it’s best to book by phone or app.
• Buses: There are few routes, infrequent services, and limited coverage, making them unsuitable for independent travelers relying on public transport.
• Water Taxis: The main way to travel between Kampong Ayer and both sides of the Brunei River. Fares are charged per segment, and you should agree on the price before boarding.

Self-Driving and Private Car Hire

Brunei has good road conditions and low fuel prices, making self-driving an efficient option. If you have a foreign driver’s license, you may need an official translation or an International Driving Permit. Car rental companies have offices at the airport and in the city. If you prefer not to drive, private car hire is the most hassle-free option and can be priced by the day. This is especially suitable for visiting out-of-town attractions like Temburong and Belait. When negotiating, clarify whether fuel, tolls, and the driver’s meals are included to avoid unexpected charges en route.

Inter-City and Rainforest Travel

• To reach Temburong, you can first take a vehicle to the ferry terminal, then switch to a speedboat or cross via the bridge. Most group tours include all transportation.
• Belait and Tutong can be reached by car from Bandar Seri Begawan, with a one-way trip taking about 1 to 2 hours.
• For getting around deep in the rainforest, you’ll need to rely on long wooden boats. Be sure to go with a qualified guide.

Tickets and Practical Information

Public transportation in Brunei mainly uses cash and a local transit card, which are not commonly used by tourists. Ride-hailing apps usually offer online payment or cash options, but some may have restrictions when using foreign bank cards. It’s advisable to carry cash. Car rental and private car hire are generally priced by the day. When picking up your vehicle, confirm the insurance terms and fuel policy, and keep contact information handy. Since vehicles in Brunei drive on the left side of the road with right-hand steering, self-driving requires extra familiarity with the roads. There are many roundabouts in the city, and you must yield to traffic coming from the right before entering.

Tips

• Public transportation in Brunei is not well developed, so it’s best to plan your transport in advance.
• There are fewer vehicles available during peak ride-hailing hours and at night, so book important trips early.
• Water taxis charge per segment. Agree on the fare before boarding and carry small change.
• When negotiating private car hire, clarify whether fuel, tolls, and the driver’s meals are included.
• Drive on the left with right-hand steering. Yield to the right in roundabouts, and slow down in wet weather due to slippery roads.