Kampong Ayer
Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Kampong Ayer is a huge floating village in the Brunei capital of Bandar Seri Begawan, with 42 stilt villages that are home to more than 30,000 people. The village is a must-see during your time in the capital, as this traditional way of life still remains strong in the community.
The basics
The best way to explore Kampong Ayer is as part of a tour of Bandar Seri Begawan; a number of excursions combine the village with top attractions such as the Royal Regalia Museum and the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. You can also visit Kampong Ayer on a wildlife-watching boat tour, which heightens your chances of spotting the proboscis monkeys endemic to Borneo, along with the island’s birds and crocodiles.
Things to know before you go
- Most of the village is only accessible by uneven wooden jetties, which might make it a difficult place to visit for travelers with limited mobility.
- There are several restaurants in Kampong Ayer, known for seafood and traditional Brunei cooking.
- You can stay overnight in the village in a traditional house with homestay programs. Many tour operators can arrange these.
How to get there
From the center of Bandar Seri Begawan, you can take a water taxi to Kampong Ayer; the boat ride only takes 10 minutes. You can also opt for a tour that includes round-trip transportation. Wooden boardwalks connect different parts of the village, allowing you to wander freely between the houses and sights.
When to get there
The best time to visit Kampong Ayer is in the morning, before the midday heat reaches its peak. Brunei is typically hot, humid, and prone to rain, but the dry season from February through April is a good time to avoid downpours.
Sightseeing in Kampong Ayer
Kampong Ayer is a fully functioning village, home to everything from a mosque to a school for residents. Other highlights of the water-based enclave include the Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery, a museum dedicated to the rich history and tradition of the area. There’s also a viewing tower—climb to the top for great views of the entire village.
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