Hidden Gem Manila: Slum Life & Secret Stories
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Staying in Manila for a day or two?
LAYOVER travelers?
Experience our unique local transportation the Jeepney, Shop like the locals at a typical Filipino open wet market, and Explore the oldest apartments in town and places where people live off the beaten path in conditions that often involve bathing and eating in the open. See and feel the local life experienced by Filipino people in the back alleys and side streets away from the bright lights and cars.
Easily meet your guide at Santa Cruz Church Keep costs down by booking this small group tour (max 10)
Inclusion of this tour
* photography
* English Speaking Guide
* Photography
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Experience our unique local transportation the Jeepney. Shop like the locals at a typical Filipino open wet market. Explore the oldest apartments in town and places where people live off the beaten path in conditions that often involve bathing and eating in the open. See and feel the local life experienced by Filipino people in the back alleys and side streets away from the bright lights and cars. You will be able to try our local coffee and food as eaten by Filipinos. After all this, I will assist you in finding the best and safest way back to your hotel. YouTube Collaboration: Harry Jaggard Tech Travel Eat by Sujith Bhakthan Alina Mcleod BackPackYourLife with Catalin Follow me: Facebook: Travel Philippines Instagram: @manilaexperience @flameexplorer YouTube: Flameexplorer
What‘s Included
Water
All Fees and Taxes
Options
The Hidden Gems of Manila Guided Tour
Reviews
46 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Recommended
Cecilia V,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great way to see Manila, and experience the different modes of transport too. Plan for slightly longer than what it says on the booking.
Interesting look at Manila
Glenn S,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00An interesting look at the residential side of the area opposite the intramuros. Floyd was very friendly and personable. Riding in a jeepney is a must do when visiting Manila. Recommended
Hidden manila
johnpB7185KZ,Feb 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I can’t recommend her enough! She took me through Manila like a true pro, hitting all the must-see spots and then some. She didn’t just show me the city—she made me feel it, sharing hidden gems and stories that went beyond any guidebook. She went above and beyond every step, ensuring each location was memorable. Not only is she a top-notch guide, but she’s also one of the most genuine people you’ll meet—she truly made Manila come alive.
Nice tour, a little off the mainstream
Reinhard P,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thanks a lot! I really enjoyed! Nice, fun and informative guide, and an interesting tour a little away from the mainstream.
Awesome authentic Tour
TM K,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guided tour through the slums of Manila yesterday was incredibly authentic and left us with lasting impressions. Our guide was truly wonderful—knowledgeable, kind, and very attentive. At no point did we feel unsafe. Overall, it was a meaningful and well-led experience that we can highly recommend.
Great tour for a quick into to Manila’s unique area
craig1lister1,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Well, I arrived really late (had no idea a 45 min ride would turn into 2 hours) Manila Traffic is one of the worst Despite my delay; Venus; the operator kindly sent me her current location and waited for me. It was a great experience walk through the busy streets with amazing vendors and food stalls and shops. Venus expertly navigated us through traffic , discussed historical and cultural significances of the area. We also experienced riding in TukTuk. This is definitely a unique experience. If you have little time in Manila and want yo experience the hustle and bustle of Real Manila; I highly recommend this tour, specifically if this is your first time We also got to taste some great food and drinks along the way. Venus is an expert and can also recommend other places for you to visit on your own later Last: the tour ends at Intramuros which I recommend taking the Bambiken tours for that
Great guide
Ted S,Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Tour guide Floyd is one of the best guides I have experienced. He was very attentive to everyone in a group of 13 people and made sure everyone was aware and safe while traveling in extremely crowded places.
Exceptional Tour and Even Better Guide — Venus Went Above and Beyond
Laura M,Dec 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My mom and I booked the Night Market and Chinatown Tour with Venus on the same day as the tour. Unfortunately, we were running late and ended up missing it. Venus was kind enough to let us reschedule and join her tour the following day. We made sure to leave much earlier and arrived on time—and I really appreciated her flexibility in letting us transfer our tour since we had already paid. The tour itself was wonderful. Venus was incredibly knowledgeable, and it was clear that many locals knew her, which made us feel even more comfortable. We felt very safe and truly enjoyed walking through the streets and markets, learning about the different areas we visited. Venus answered all of our questions and even got us some snacks along the way. The tour lasted longer than we expected, but she allowed us to leave early since the last hour focused on parts of Old Manila we had already explored. Venus is fantastic, and I highly recommend this tour!
Fabulous & unusual
cheekiness,Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Floyd our guide was dynamic, informative, funny & respectful. This small group tour took us into the off the beaten track spots from a locals perspective giving us insight into how middle class & poor people live in Manila. This was done in a really respectful way with lots of cultural insights. The tour was a good mix of walking, tuk tuks & a Jeepney. 100% would recommend!
Our tour guide, Floyd,...
Shannon S,Sep 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Our tour guide, Floyd, was exceptional—his deep knowledge and detailed explanations enriched every moment of the tour. He brought great personality to the experience, engaging us with fun mini karaoke sessions that created unforgettable memories. A truly five-star guide who made our trip extraordinary and filled with joy!
From US$60.00
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Operated by Manila Experience (V.S Tour Services)