Bandar Highlight & Water Village Private Tour - Practical Details & Tips

Kampong Jerudong’s 11 Top Tours & Experiences (With Prices)

Discover the best tours in Kampong Jerudong, from cultural highlights to wildlife adventures. Find your perfect experience with this practical guide.

Kampong Jerudong may be best known for its luxury resorts and pristine beaches, but its tourism options run far deeper. Whether you’re after a personalized look at Brunei’s stunning mosques, a boat ride through historic water villages, or a chance to spot endangered proboscis monkeys, this area offers a surprising variety of experiences. What we especially like are the private tours that let you explore without the crowds and enjoy a tailored experience—like the Private Bandar Heritage & Water Village Tour or the Proboscis Monkey Tour. These give you a genuine look at Brunei’s culture, wildlife, and architecture, all with expert guides and flexible itineraries.

If you’re planning your trip, you’ll find options that fit different schedules and interests. From half-day city highlights to full-day cultural explorations, Kampong Jerudong has something to suit your pace. Below, we’ve rounded up the 11 best tours and experiences, focusing on what makes each one unique and practical for your travel plans.

1. Private Bandar Heritage & Water Village Tour

Bandar Heritage & Water Village Private Tour

At number 1, this full-day private tour offers a comprehensive look at Brunei’s capital, blending cultural landmarks with water village charm. The tour includes hotel pick-up, a private guide, and lunch, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized, stress-free experience. You’ll visit the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, a modern Islamic masterpiece; take photos at the Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan’s residence; and explore the Royal Regalia Museum with its regal artifacts. Still craving more? The visit to the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Training Centre provides insight into local craftsmanship and tradition.

This tour consistently receives glowing reviews—”knowledgeable, friendly guides,” “well-structured,” and “avoiding the crowds.” It’s perfect for first-timers who want a balanced mix of architecture, culture, and history. The value lies in the flexible itinerary, private setting, and inclusive lunch.

Bottom line: if you want an immersive, private introduction to Brunei’s main sights, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort and a tailored approach.

2. Private Bandar Highlight & Water Village Tour

Bandar Highlight & Water Village Private Tour

For around $109, the Private Bandar Highlight & Water Village Tour offers a shorter, four-hour deep dive into Brunei’s top landmarks. It includes visits to Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque from the famous “The Frame,” and a boat ride through the historic Kampong Ayer. You’ll also enjoy a cozy stop at a local house for light refreshments, which adds a personal touch most tours skip.

The private nature of this tour means it’s ideal for those who want a tailored, intimate experience of Brunei’s highlights. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the efficient pace—“a wonderful half-day,” as one reviewer put it. The inclusion of admission tickets and vehicle comfort makes it good value at its price point.

Bottom line: this tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the city’s essential sights with a personal touch.

3. Private Proboscis Monkey Tour

Private Proboscis Monkey Tour

At number 3, this short wildlife tour delivers a focused experience on the elusive proboscis monkeys. The boat ride takes you down the scenic river, passing mangroves home to rare wildlife. You’ll also stop at Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the Golden Jubilee Crown Waterfront Park for photo ops and some local flavor, all with hotel pickup included.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to spot endangered proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat—something less common in crowded tours. The reviews are glowing; “we saw many monkeys,” and guides are praised for their expertise. The value is in the combination of wildlife and iconic sights in just two hours, making it suitable for busy travelers.

Bottom line: if wildlife and a quick escape into nature appeal to you, this tour balances wildlife viewing with city highlights.

4. Private Bandar by Night Tour

Private Bandar by Night Tour

Number 4 offers a magical experience—seeing Brunei’s city illuminated. Starting with a sunset boat ride through Kampong Ayer, you’ll experience the Venice of the East by water. The tour continues with photo stops at the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge, and the Sultan’s palace from afar.

This night tour is perfect for those who want to see the city’s landmarks in a different light, with bottled water provided and private access. Reviewers praise the captivating atmosphere and the knowledgeable, friendly guides who bring the city’s stories to life. The value lies in the intimate, relaxed pace and the opportunity to photograph Brunei’s landmarks at sunset and night.

Bottom line: ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic introduction to the city after sunset.

5. Private Bandar Highlight, Water Village & Proboscis Monkey Tour

Private Bandar Highlight, Water Village & Proboscis Monkey Tour

This full-day adventure combines cultural highlights with wildlife spotting, making it one of the most diverse options. It includes visiting Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Istana Nurul Iman, the Royal Regalia Museum, and cruising Kampong Ayer. Plus, you get a private boat ride to spot proboscis monkeys and visit a local home for refreshments.

With admission tickets included and a tailored itinerary, this tour suits travelers eager for a complete overview in one day. Reviewers say it’s “a well-organized, personalized experience,” and the value is clear for those wanting a deep dive into Brunei’s culture and nature.

Bottom line: perfect if you want to cover city, water village, and wildlife in one comprehensive private tour.

6. Private Proboscis Monkey & Water Village Water Village and Night Tour

Private Proboscis Monkey, Water Village & Bandar by Night Tour

Number 6 offers a half-day combo, with a boat ride to see proboscis monkeys, visits to Kampong Ayer, and a stop at the Gadong night market for tasty local foods. It’s a relaxed, private experience that balances wildlife, culture, and local flavors, with hotel pickup included.

The highlight is the spotting of monkeys in the mangroves, especially at sunset. Reviewers mention how helpful and knowledgeable the guides are, making this a stress-free way to enjoy a mix of nature and local life in just four hours.

Bottom line: ideal for travelers who want wildlife and a taste of local cuisine in a shorter timeframe.

7. Private Proboscis Monkey & Water Village Tour

Private Proboscis Monkey & Water Village Tour

Number 7 builds on the wildlife theme with a two-hour 30-minute private boat tour, passing the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Istana Nurul Iman, and the largest water village. It’s praised for personalized service and the chance to see proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and waterbirds.

The tour includes a local house visit for refreshments, making it both a wildlife and cultural experience. Travelers love the friendly guides and the flexible, intimate setting.

Bottom line: a good choice for wildlife lovers who also want a quick cultural overview.

8. Private Water Village, Fireflies & Proboscis Monkey Tour

Private Water Village, Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies Tour

Number 8 is a evening tour that combines a river cruise with wildlife spotting and fireflies in the mangroves. It includes a visit to a local house with refreshments and a trip to the water village.

The highlight is the magical experience of fireflies at night—a rare chance to see nature’s lights in their natural setting. Reviewers mention outstanding guides who share in-depth knowledge, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Bottom line: best suited for those wanting an atmospheric night experience with wildlife and fireflies in one tour.

9. Bandar Highlight Private Tour

Bandar Highlight Private Tour

At number 9, this short, private city tour covers key highlights like Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Istana Nurul Iman, and Kampong Ayer. The three-hour itinerary is ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want a concise, personalized introduction.

The reviews praise the private setting and local insights. It’s a straightforward, affordable option to see Brunei’s main landmarks without the fuss of larger group tours.

Bottom line: ideal for travelers who prefer a quick, private overview of the city’s top sights.

10. Bandar Delight and Water Village Private Tour

Bandar Delight and Water Village Private Tour

Number 10 is a relaxing 4.5-hour tour including photo stops at Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, Nurul Iman Palace, and a boat ride through Kampong Ayer. It also offers an opportunity to sample local food at Gadong Night Market, making it both cultural and culinary.

Reviewers appreciate the personalized service, flexible schedule, and the chance to see the city by boat and on foot without rushing. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, well-rounded experience.

Bottom line: suited for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and local cuisine in a private setting.

11. Private Water Village Heritage Tour

Private Water Village Heritage Tour

Finally, this short, 2-hour tour is a more affordable, quick peek into Kampong Ayer. It includes a boat ride, visits to the Water Village, and a local house with light refreshments. The admission to the Water Village Tourism Gallery is included.

While reviews are limited, the tour is praised for its private, personalized experience and for avoiding crowds. It’s suitable for travelers who want an authentic taste of water village life without dedicating a whole day.

Bottom line: best for those seeking a brief, private cultural experience in Kampong Ayer.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

When selecting a tour in Kampong Jerudong, consider your interests, time availability, and budget. For a comprehensive introduction that covers everything from architecture to wildlife, the Full-Day Private Bandar Heritage & Water Village Tour offers unbeatable value. If wildlife is your priority, the Proboscis Monkey Tours or Night Fireflies & Monkey Tour deliver memorable encounters. Shorter options like the Bandar Highlight & Water Village or Bandar Highlight Private Tour work well if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Brunei.

For those after a romantic sunset experience or a nighttime city tour, the Private Bandar by Night is perfect. Budget travelers might opt for shorter, private tours that still include admission tickets and hotel pickup.

Final Thoughts

Kampong Jerudong offers a surprising range of personalized, culturally rich, and wildlife-focused tours. Whether you want to explore the grand mosques, cruise through the historic water village, or spot proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, there’s an option tailored to your interests.

The best value often comes from full-day private tours, but shorter options are perfect for quick visits or if you prefer a leisurely pace. Remember to book early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time and guide. With so many choices, your trip to Kampong Jerudong will surely be memorable—just pick your adventure and enjoy Brunei’s warm hospitality and natural beauty.