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Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve
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Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve, also known as Selirong Island, is an uninhabited island in the Temburong District of Brunei, completely covered by mangrove forests. Spanning approximately 2,566 hectares, it represents one of the best-preserved mangrove ecosystems in the Southeast Asian region. The island is accessible only by water through Brunei Bay and serves as a vital sanctuary for numerous endangered animal species. Particularly noteworthy is the presence of proboscis monkeys, flying foxes, and various rare bird species that nest in the dense canopy. Geographically, the island acts as a natural filter for river water and protects the coastline from storms and surges. A wooden boardwalk has been constructed for visitors, allowing for the safe exploration of the swampy forest without disturbing the fragile environmental balance. The ecological significance of Pulau Selirong is crucial for Brunei's fishing industry, as the mangroves serve as a nursery for many species of fish.
- Location: Brunei
- Top sights: Surau Kampung Tanjung Pagar · Masjid besar Sundar
- Nearby: Labu (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 285 | 143 | 155 | 212 | 241 | 258 | 249 | 229 | 253 | 312 | 321 | 333 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This mangrove island ecosystem is exclusively accessible via an organized or chartered boat ride from the mainland.
Best season
Calm weather conditions are essential for a safe boat crossing, as storms can render the excursion impossible or dangerous.
Terrain & paths
Movement on the island is almost entirely restricted to elevated wooden boardwalks constructed through the muddy mangrove swamp.
What to bring
Visitors should bring strong mosquito repellent, a sun hat, and binoculars for observing wildlife high up in the canopy.
Parking
Vehicles are typically parked at the mainland boat terminal or marina before embarking on the water crossing.
Safety
It is crucial to stay strictly on the designated boardwalks to avoid sinking into deep mud zones and to protect the roots.
Time needed
A complete excursion, including the scenic boat ride in both directions and the island walk, typically takes three to four hours.
Geography
Facts
- The island covers an area of approximately 2,566 hectares.
- It is part of the Labu Forest Reserve complex.
- Access is by boat, about 45 minutes from the capital city.
- Over 2 kilometers of wooden boardwalks facilitate exploration.
- It is a vital habitat for the endangered proboscis monkey.
- The island is located near the border with the Malaysian state of Sarawak.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Selirong Island?
Only by boat from Bandar Seri Begawan (about a 45-minute ride).
What is special about Selirong?
It is a pristine mangrove forest reserve with extensive wooden boardwalks.
What animals can we see there?
Proboscis monkeys, macaques, monitor lizards, and a variety of birds.
Is food available there?
No, there are no shops. Bring your own food and water.
Is a guide necessary?
Yes, booking a tour is recommended as transport and access need to be organized.
Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve: where is it located?
Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve is located in Brunei.
Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Surau Kampung Tanjung Pagar, Masjid besar Sundar.
Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
Pulau Selirong Forest Reserve, also known as Selirong Island, is an uninhabited island in the Temburong District of Brunei, completely covered by mangrove forests.
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Nearby cities
Bandar Seri Begawan
Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital and largest city of Brunei, known for the magnificent Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
Kiulap
A major commercial and residential area close to the center of Bandar Seri Begawan.
Sengkurong
A rapidly growing residential and commercial area located to the west of the capital.
Mentiri
A residential suburb located in the eastern part of the Brunei-Muara District.
Kota Batu
An area rich in history, containing several important archaeological sites and museums.
Lumapas
A village located south of the capital, connected by land and surrounded by beautiful hills.
Lambak
One of the largest residential areas in Brunei, featuring extensive public housing estates.
Berakas
An important area housing the Brunei International Airport and various government ministries.
Sungai Akar
A prominent residential area housing several foreign embassies and important institutions.
Jerudong
A settlement known for its amusement park, Jerudong Park, and luxurious polo club.
Gadong
The premier commercial and shopping district in the capital region of Brunei.
Subok
A village set against lush green hills, offering a quiet environment close to the capital.
Muara
A prominent port town at the northeastern tip of Brunei, housing the country's main deep-water port.
Kilanas
A traditional village that has developed into a modern residential suburb.
History & landmarks
Nature
Serasa Beach
A narrow coastal strip serving as the hub for water sports in Brunei.
Muara Beach
The most famous beach in Brunei with white sandy shores and picnic areas.
Brunei River
A historically significant river, on whose banks lie the capital Bandar Seri Begawan and the traditional water village Kampong Ayer.
🗺️
Meragang Beach
A quiet sandy beach in northern Brunei, often called Crocodile Beach.
More places
Pulau Muara Besar Petrochemical Complex
A massive refinery and petrochemical plant on an island, functioning as a joint venture with China.
Muara Port
Brunei's main deep-water port, handling the majority of its international maritime trade.
Serasa Ferry Terminal
The main passenger and vehicle port for connections to Labuan and Malaysia.
Australian Veterans Monument
A memorial commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of Australian soldiers during World War II in Brunei.
Muara Fish Landing Complex
The commercial center of Brunei's fishing industry, where fresh catch is landed and traded.
Muara Beach Landing Site
The historic site where Allied forces landed in 1945 during Operation Oboe Six to liberate Brunei.
Bukit Tempayan Pisang
A historically significant hill offering panoramic views of Muara.
Brooketon Colliery
The historical remains of an old coal mine in Muara that operated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.