Day Trips in Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei is a small place. In fact, Brunei itself is a small place and most of the places in it can be seen by making day trips. You can base yourself at Bandar Seri Begawan and visit the other places of importance and interest.

The Ulu Temburong National Park and the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve

Both these places are in Bangar, the administrative center of the Temburong District of Brunei. They are excellent for experiencing the jungle. The area is in the rain forest and you get to see the flora and fauna of the Southeast Asian rain forest. You can get there by speedboat. The journey takes about 45 minutes. This park is as good as any of Malaysia's national parks. The Ulu Temburong National Park is situated in a remote part of the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve. You have to reach it only by a long boat. One highlight of the Ulu Temburong National Park is the Canopy Walkway, which is 50m above the ground and set on a treetop. This walkway permits access to a serene view of the virgin rain forest. This is something that you should not miss.

Sungai Liang Forest Reserve

At the Sungai Liang Forest Reserve you can learn about the history of forest conservation activities in the country and see many well preserved local fauna specimens.

Next, visit the forest and opt for a guided easy nature trek in the reserve. Here you will see many tropical rain forest plants and the different uses to which the local community of Borneo puts them to. You will also be able to hear the cicadas.

Luagan Lalak

Next, visit the nature oasis of Brunei – the Luagan Lalak Recreational Park. This is about 25 km away from the Forest Reserve. The park covers an area of about 270 hecters within the Labi Hill Forest Reserve. It features a rare alluvial fresh water swamp that offers a beautiful spot for a picnic lunch by the lake. It is a stopping point for many migratory water bird species.

Labi Iban Longhouse

Lastly try to visit an Iban Longhouse. The Iban or “Sea Dayaks” are the famous head hunters of Borneo. A longhouse is a house for the entire village under one roof. You will have to get special permission for visiting a longhouse, but the trouble is well worth it.

A trip to the rain forests of this area is a must if you visit Brunei. The flora and fauna are unique and a must see.