Kampong Jerudong might not be the first place you think of for tours in Brunei, but this small town offers some fantastic ways to see the country’s unique blend of modern Islamic architecture, historic water villages, and lush wildlife. We particularly love the private Bandar Highlight & Water Village Private Tour because it hits all the main sights in a half-day, including the iconic mosques and a boat ride through the world’s largest water village, Kampong Ayer. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive snapshot without spending a full day on the road. The opportunity for photos at key landmarks and a private boat ride make it a memorable introduction to Brunei’s contrasting urban and water-based life.
If you’re interested in a more immersive experience, the Bandar Heritage & Water Village Private Tour offers a longer, more detailed exploration. This six to seven-hour journey includes visits to important landmarks, a boat ride, and a delicious included lunch. For wildlife lovers, the Private Proboscis Monkey Tour is a must, giving a chance to see these rare primates in their natural habitat along with other native birds and crocodiles. For sunset or night owls, the Private Bandar by Night Tour adds a magical glow to the city’s mosques and markets, with a scenic boat ride and city drive.
Below, we’ve outlined each of the top tours available in Kampong Jerudong, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you pick the best experience for your trip.
1. Bandar Highlight & Water Village Private Tour
Explore Brunei’s capital highlights in a relaxed, private setting. This 4-hour tour is ideal for first-timers wanting to cover the essentials—the biggest mosque, the Sultan’s water palace, and Kampong Ayer—with an intimate touch. It includes visits to Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque (a stunning example of modern Islamic architecture), photo stops at Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s largest residential palace, and the iconic Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
A highlight is the boat ride along Kampong Ayer, the “Venice of the East,” regarded as the largest water village in the world. You’ll cruise through centuries-old stilt houses and capture plenty of photos. The tour fee includes admission to the Royal Regalia Museum, a local house visit with refreshments, and private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it comfortable and personalized. Reviewers call it “very informative,” praising the knowledgeable guide and the authenticity of the experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers with limited time but want a comprehensive view of Brunei’s landmarks, culture, and water lifestyle.
2. Bandar Heritage & Water Village Private Tour
For those wanting to spend a full day getting to know Brunei’s city, culture, and history, this 6 to 7-hour private tour is ideal. It starts with visits to the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, followed by a photo stop at Istana Nurul Iman. Then, you’ll explore the Royal Regalia Museum, which showcases royal costumes and regalia used during coronations, providing insight into Brunei’s monarchy.
What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of a boat ride across Kampong Ayer, along with a visit to Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre. The tour also offers a light lunch, hotel pickup (even from the airport), and plenty of personalized attention. Guests appreciate the flexible itinerary and the fact that it’s tailored to their interests. One reviewer notes, “We visited three spectacular mosques,” emphasizing the depth of this experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers eager to understand Brunei’s cultural and royal highlights in one relaxed day, with plenty of local flavor.
3. Private Proboscis Monkey Tour
Wildlife enthusiasts will find this 2-hour private boat tour a highlight. The boat glides through mangrove forests, where you’ll have a good chance to spot endangered proboscis monkeys, along with otters and saltwater crocodiles. The tour includes stops at Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Golden Jubilee Crown Park, and Kampong Ayer—the largest water village in the world.
Guide Haji’s expertise makes all the difference, sharing stories about the monkeys’ habitat, the river’s ecology, and Brunei’s conservation efforts. The boat driver is skilled at spotting wildlife, and the tour is designed to avoid crowds for a more intimate experience. Reviewers mention seeing multiple groups of proboscis monkeys and enjoying the peaceful, natural setting.
Bottom line: Excellent for nature lovers with limited time—this short but wildlife-focused tour offers a good dose of Brunei’s unique fauna with ease.
4. Private Bandar by Night Tour
Experience Brunei’s capital after dark with this 2.5-hour private evening tour. Starting with a sunset boat ride through Kampong Ayer, the tour captures the water village’s atmosphere while the city’s mosques and skyline are beautifully lit up. Afterward, you’ll drive past Istana Nurul Iman and stop at the Gadong Night Market to sample local delicacies.
Photostops are available at the major landmarks, and bottled water is provided. This tour is ideal for night owls or those wanting a different perspective of the city. Guests mention how the mosques look stunning illuminated at night, and the boat ride is a relaxing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic evening experience and a taste of Brunei’s vibrant night scene.
5. Private Bandar Highlight, Water Village & Proboscis Monkey Tour
This 5 to 6-hour tour combines city highlights, wildlife, and the water village. It includes visits to Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Istana Nurul Iman, and the Royal Regalia Museum. Then, you’ll cruise through Kampong Ayer and explore the mangroves, with a focus on spotting proboscis monkeys.
Guests rave about the personalized experience, with one reviewer describing the guide as “knowledgeable, professional, and friendly.” The tour includes a visit to a local house with refreshments, making it a well-rounded, authentic experience. The comprehensive itinerary makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to see Brunei’s cultural, historical, and natural highlights in one trip.
Bottom line: Offers a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and city sights, suitable for travelers who want a thorough day out.
6. Private Water Village, Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies Tour
This 3-hour early evening tour is a nature lover’s dream. It begins with a visit to a local house with refreshments, then cruises through mangroves to observe proboscis monkeys and other wildlife. If weather permits, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset over the forest, then continue into the dark to see fireflies flashing in the mangrove trees.
Guide Fendy’s expertise and ability to customize the experience make this tour special. Visitors often mention the sighting of crocodiles, eagles, and multiple monkey families. The intimate setting allows for close encounters with wildlife, making it ideal for photography and nature enthusiasts.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking an early evening escape into nature, with a chance to see fireflies and nocturnal wildlife.
7. Private Proboscis Monkey, Water Village & Bandar by Night Tour
Combining water, wildlife, and city night views, this 4-hour private tour takes you on a boat trip through Kampong Ayer, stopping at mosques and the Sultan’s palace. It ends with a visit to the vibrant Gadong night market, where you can sample local dishes.
Guests praise the friendly guides and the chance to see endangered monkeys in their natural habitat. The boat cruise is private, providing a relaxed atmosphere for wildlife watching and city sightseeing. The tour is especially suited for those wanting a comprehensive evening experience, blending nature and urban life.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want to combine wildlife with local cuisine and night views in one smooth trip.
8. Private Proboscis Monkey & Water Village Tour
This 2.5-hour private boat tour is perfect for quick wildlife spotting and cultural insights. It includes a visit to Kampong Ayer and the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, with stops at historic sites and a local house for refreshments. The tour is small and private, ensuring a personal experience.
Guide Faisal is highly praised for his friendliness and knowledge, making the visit both educational and enjoyable. People love seeing proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and the mosques all in one short trip. It’s great for travelers with packed schedules but who want an authentic taste of Brunei’s water-based life.
Bottom line: A condensed, wildlife-rich option for those pressed for time but eager to see key sites.
9. Bandar Highlight Private Tour
This 3-hour private driving tour gives a quick but thorough overview of Brunei’s highlights. It covers the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Istana Nurul Iman, and the Water Village, with plenty of photo stops and insider commentary.
The tour is especially good for travelers who prefer to see major landmarks without extensive walking, making it accessible for all fitness levels. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, and the tour is flexible enough to suit your interests. One reviewer called it “a great introduction to Brunei’s main sights.”
Bottom line: Suitable for visitors with limited time who want an efficient, informative snapshot of the city.
$86.26 per person
10. Bandar Delight and Water Village Private Tour
For a shorter, about 4.5-hour adventure, this tour combines key landmarks with a boat cruise through Kampong Ayer and a visit to a local house with refreshments. It also includes a stop at Gadong Night Market for a taste of local street food.
This tour is a cost-effective way to see Brunei’s main attractions without overextending your day. Visitors mention that the hotel pickup and private boat ride make for a relaxed experience. It’s especially good for travelers wanting a quick yet authentic look at the water village and city landmarks.
Bottom line: A good choice for travelers on a budget who want a compact, personalized tour.
$99.45 per person
11. Private Water Village Heritage Tour
This 2-hour tour focuses more on the cultural and historical side of Kampong Ayer. It includes a boat ride, a visit to a local house, and a trip to the Water Village Tourism Gallery. It’s ideal for travelers interested in Brunei’s traditional water settlement and local life.
The tour provides insights into the history of stilt houses, local crafts, and the significance of the water village. Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to learn about Brunei’s past in an intimate setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a brief, culturally focused experience that emphasizes local traditions.
$78.94 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding which tour to book, consider your interests, time constraints, and budget. If you’re short on time but want a broad overview, the Bandar Highlight & Water Village Private Tour offers great value. Wildlife fans should lean toward the Proboscis Monkey Tour, which showcases Brunei’s native animals.
For a more comprehensive exploration, the Bandar Heritage & Water Village Private Tour combines history, culture, and wildlife in a full-day format. Night owls or those seeking a different perspective will enjoy the Bandar by Night Tour, offering sunset and city lights.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, as these private tours are popular for their personalized service and flexible schedules.
In summary, Kampong Jerudong offers a variety of options for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a quick cultural overview, wildlife encounters, or an immersive day of city sights, you’ll find a tour that fits your needs. Among these, the Bandar Highlight & Water Village Private Tour stands out for its balance of iconic landmarks and authentic experiences, making it an excellent starting point. More adventurous types should not miss the chance to see proboscis monkeys, while night explorers can enjoy the city’s illuminated skyline. Whatever your choice, early booking will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences in Kampong Jerudong.