Guadalajara Tour and Charreria Competition Show

Exploring Guadalajara with a Tour that Combines City Highlights and a Traditional Charreria Show

If you’re visiting Guadalajara and looking to get a real taste of the local culture, this Guadalajara Tour and Charreria Competition Show might just be what you’re after. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, it’s designed to combine a stroll through the city’s most iconic squares with an exciting display of Mexican cowboy skills. For anyone interested in vibrant city life and authentic traditions, this tour offers a balanced peek into Guadalajara’s heart.

What we really like about this experience is how it marries the sights with the action — you get a guided walk around the main downtown spots, and then you’re right there, witnessing the thrilling skills of the charros. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and a souvenir makes it a straightforward, hassle-free outing. On the flip side, one thing to consider is the limited time and size — two hours isn’t long to cover a lot, and if you’re highly interested in deeper historical context, you might find it a bit quick.

This tour suits travelers who want a taste of Guadalajara’s lively atmosphere but don’t want to spend an entire day on sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who appreciate cultural displays and prefer a small group experience with an engaging guide. If you’re curious about Mexican traditions, especially the charros and their impressive horsemanship, this is a good pick.

Key Points

• Includes both a city walking tour and live Charreria Show for a well-rounded experience.
• Transportation is covered, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.
• Small group size offers more personalized interaction with the guide.
• The tour covers key downtown squares and iconic sites.
• Cost-effective at $54, especially considering the included tickets and transport.
• The tour is approximately 2 hours, generally happening in the afternoon.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Walk Through Guadalajara’s Downtown Charm

We love a good city walk, and this tour’s first part delivers just that. You’ll start by exploring some of Guadalajara’s main downtown squares, including the impressive Cathedral of Guadalajara, a stunning piece of architecture that’s central to the city’s identity. Standing in front of it, you’ll appreciate its grandeur and historical significance, and your guide will probably share some interesting stories about its history.

Next, you’ll pass by the Square of the Guns, which, honestly, sounds more dramatic than it is, but it’s a neat spot to take in the city’s vibe. Then, your walk takes you to the Square Jalisco’s Sons Memorial, honoring local heroes, and the lively Square Freedom, which is known for its energy and local life. The entire walk is a chance to soak up Guadalajara’s atmosphere, see its bustling streets, and get some quick insights from your guide.

While the walking part is straightforward, it’s the chance to see the city’s architecture, public art, and lively street life that makes it worthwhile. For travelers who enjoy city strolls that aren’t overly rushed, this part sets a nice tone.

The Excitement of the Charreria Show

After the city walk, the focus shifts to the Lienzo Charro, the venue where the traditional Charreria takes place. This is where things get lively. You’ll witness the impressive horsemanship of the charros, Mexican cowboys known for their strength, skill, and bravery. The show involves a variety of feats, like roping cattle and catching horses, which can be quite dramatic.

One of the standout features is how the charros use their riata ropes — watching them lasso and make horses fall is surprisingly precise and requires a lot of skill. The energy in the arena is heightened by the lively Mexican banda and norteño music, adding an authentic, festive feel to the event.

Based on reviews, the show is very authentic and gives you a real taste of Mexican cowboy culture. As one traveler put it, “The charros are the best,” and that sense of pride and tradition really shines through. You might feel a bit unsure about clapping or reacting — it’s a cultural nuance — but the enthusiasm of the charros is contagious.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour offers excellent value for the $54 price point. It covers the downtown walking tour, the entry ticket to the Charreria Show, one-way Uber transportation to and from the venue, and even a souvenir to remember your experience. Being able to sit back and relax, knowing transportation and tickets are taken care of, is a big plus.

However, it’s worth noting that food, snacks, and drinks during the show aren’t included**. If you’re hungry or want a cold drink, you’ll need to buy them on-site, so plan accordingly. Also, transportation back to your hotel after the show isn’t included, so make sure you have that figured out or just plan to walk or take an Uber.

The tour typically lasts around 2 hours and happens in the afternoon. The small group setting (limited to 10 people) makes for a more engaging experience, with your guide available to answer questions and offer insights.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture, with some useful insights. One traveler from the US mentioned that finding the meeting point was tricky due to a parade and that the usual tour of the ring was affected that day. They suggested that planning ahead could help avoid missing out on part of the experience. They also appreciated the authenticity of the charros, saying, “The people of Guadalajara who do Charro are the best.”

A Mexican traveler loved the private tour experience they received outside holiday season, noting their guide, Mayra, was very knowledgeable and helpful, especially with translations. They found the show to be a bit surprising — describing some of the feats as “making cows fall,” which might sound intense but is part of the tradition. They also noted that the animals seem well cared for and that the show is a cultural display rather than animal cruelty.

Another reviewer from Canada highlighted how Mayra’s knowledge and friendliness made their day special, praising the authentic experience and the guide’s extra tips on what else to see around Guadalajara.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience offers a neat blend of Guadalajara’s urban charm and traditional Mexican culture. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see the city’s highlights without dedicating an entire day and who are interested in cultural performances, especially those involving horsemanship and Mexican cowboy traditions.

If you’re curious about the Charreria, enjoy lively shows, or want a snapshot of Guadalajara’s architectural beauty, this tour gives you that with minimal hassle. The price reflects a good value considering the included tickets, transportation, and guide. On the downside, it’s a tight schedule, so if you love taking your time or want a more in-depth experience, you might find it a bit rushed.

For families, couples, or friends interested in experiencing something uniquely Mexican, this tour can be both fun and educational. Just keep in mind that if animals aren’t your thing or you prefer a quieter day, this might not be the best fit.

FAQs About the Guadalajara Tour and Charreria Show

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a one-way Uber ride to the Charreria venue is included, as well as transportation back to the meeting point after the show.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, usually in the afternoon.

What’s included in the cost?
Your ticket to the downtown walking tour, the Charreria show, transportation, and a souvenir are all included.

Is food or drinks included?
No, snacks and drinks during the show are not included, so bring some money if you’d like to buy extras.

Where do we meet the guide?
In front of the Cathedral of Guadalajara, by the fountain with stairs. Your guide will contact you via WhatsApp before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the show involves animal elements and lively performances, so consider your children’s interest and comfort.

What languages is the tour offered in?
It’s available in both English and Spanish.

All in all, this tour offers a convenient, engaging way to experience the city’s highlights and a treasured Mexican tradition. Whether you’re into culture, history, or just want an exciting show, it’s a solid choice for your Guadalajara visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: