The best diving and hiking spots in Brunei

Covering approximately 50,000 hectares of pristine rainforest in the extreme east of Brunei, Ulu Temburong National Park is one of the country's greatest natural attractions. It is dubbed as the 'Green Jewel of Brunei', home to more than 40 species of butterfly, rare exploding ants, gibbons, hornbills, flying squirrels and more.

Brunei's strict conservation efforts allow only scientists and specialists to access much of the park. Therefore, the only practical way you can visit is by joining a tour or applying for a special permit. 

The 270 hectare Luagan Lalak Forest Recreation Park in Belait District is a rare natural feature in Borneo. The freshwater swamp is dotted with lush greenery, with water that creates a mirrored effect that further magnifies the area's beauty. In the drier months, Luagan Lalak's waters recede to reveal a field of beautiful Lepironia sedges.

Visitors to the Labi Hills Forest Reserve – of which Luagan Lalak is a part of – head to the recreation park for a view of the sunrise or explore the footpaths around the Park grounds. 

Want to go chasing waterfalls? Tasek Lama Recreational Park is a jungle oasis in the middle of the city with a waterfall and a lake – and it looks like it's right out of a fairytale. The park boasts extensive trails you can explore, all with different levels ranging from easy to steep jungle paths.

Want to go off the mainland? Pulau Berambang is Brunei's largest riverine island. Situated less than a kilometre from the banks of Pintu Malim, you can access the island by boat. Take a day trip that promises idyllic walks along countryside roads, a hill trek that offers sweeping vistas and historic disused coal mines, and marvel at dramatic rock formations. 

The mangrove forests on Barambang have also been set aside for protection and conservation through the Wild Life Protection Act of Brunei.