🌊 How to Get to Kampung Ayer in Brunei – Water Taxi or On Foot

Visiting Kampung Ayer—the iconic Water Village in Brunei Darussalam—is like stepping into a living postcard. Known as the “Venice of the East,” this centuries-old settlement built entirely on stilts is a must-see for culture lovers, photographers, and adventurers alike.

And the best part? Getting there is half the experience.

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🚤 Option 1: Via Water Taxi (Fastest & Most Scenic)

The most exciting way to reach Kampung Ayer is by water taxi. Just head to the Brunei River bank in front of Yayasan Complex—you won't even need to look for the boats. The boatmen will spot you first.

🕒 Travel time: ~2 minutes
💸 Fare: B$30–50 (for round-trip/private hire) — HAGGLE!
📍 Location: Yayasan Complex, Bandar Seri Begawan

🛶 Tips for Taking the Water Taxi:

• ⏰ Go in the morning – The water is calmer and the light is perfect for photos.
• 📷 Bring a tripod or phone stabilizer – The boat ride can get bumpy.
• 💦 Prepare for splashes – The water is brownish and might land on your face.
• 👃 Mild odor warning – Not the best smell, but it's part of the experience.
• 🤝 Split the cost – If you’re traveling with others, share the boat to save.
• ♿ Not wheelchair-friendly, but boatmen are very helpful—just ask for assistance!

📝 I didn’t get decent pictures during my ride—so learn from me: morning + tripod is key!

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🚶 Option 2: On Foot (Hidden Local Pathway)

Prefer something quieter or cheaper? You can reach parts of the north side of Kampung Ayer on foot through a wooden walkway behind Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

🗺️ How to Find the Path:

1. From the main entrance of the mosque, turn left.
2. Follow the steel fence path toward the end—keep walking.
3. You’ll spot a wooden bridge/walkway leading toward the water village.

🌉 I actually stumbled on this path by accident one night while taking photos of the mosque’s golden dome. It looked magical, lit by the glow from Kampung Ayer.

This route is especially useful at night when water taxis are unavailable or if you're simply in the mood for a spontaneous adventure.

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📸 Why Kampung Ayer is Worth Visiting

• 🏠 Over 1,000 traditional wooden houses built on stilts
• 🕌 Views of Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque across the river
• 📜 A 1,300-year-old community still alive and thriving
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Friendly locals, home-run shops, and floating schools

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✨ Whether you hop on a boat or explore on foot, don’t miss Kampung Ayer—Brunei’s living heritage on water. Bring your camera, your curiosity, and a little sense of adventure!