Manila: Intramuros Slum Tour with Local Guide

Discover the vibrant soul of Manila on a guided tour of Intramuros. Explore the historic community of Maisan and visit the quirky Banana Republic.
Step off the beaten path and into the vibrant, resilient soul of Manila with a one-of-a-kind slum tour in Intramuros. Visit Maisan, the historic community whose name literally means “where corns can be bought,” and the intriguingly named Banana Republic near Colegio de San Juan de Letran.

Tucked within the storied walls of Intramuros lies Maisan, a community whose humble origins reflect a deep connection to Manila’s street economy. Long before the area evolved into a bustling urban neighborhood, the people of Maisan made their living by selling corn — boiled, grilled, or roasted — a simple trade that nourished locals and tourists alike. The name "Maisan" is a nod to this shared history, a reminder of the dignity in honest labor and the resourcefulness of the Filipino people.

Meet longtime residents and community storytellers, hear their personal tales of survival and creativity, and witness firsthand how life flourishes in even the most overlooked corners of the city.

Just a short walk away, near the historic Colegio de San Juan de Letran, is a quirky little enclave known affectionately by locals as the Banana Republic. While the term may evoke images of politics and satire, the real reason behind this name is one that will leave you chuckling — and it’s something your guide will reveal only during the tour. (Spoiler: it involves actual bananas, a bit of local mischief, and a healthy dose of Filipino humor.)

This part of the tour offers a fun, unexpected look at how communities brand themselves with a wink and a smile, turning everyday life into local legend.

لضمان التوفر، احجز في أقرب وقت ممكن. الحجز المبكر يستحق النظر خاصة إذا كنت تخطط للرحلة خلال موسم الذروة مثل العطلات العامة أو عطلات نهاية الأسبوع.

يمكنك إلغاء هذه الرحلة بدون تكلفة حتى 24 ساعات قبل بدء الرحلة. إذا قمت بالإلغاء بعد 24 ساعات أو لم تحضر في الرحلة، فسيتم تحصيل السعر الكامل للنشاط. التأخر في الاستلام أو المغادرة سيعتبر كعدم حضور.