Tequila Express Round Trip by Train

Tequila Express Round Trip by Train: A Complete Look at the Experience

If you’re dreaming of exploring Mexico’s famed tequila landscape without the hassle of planning every detail, the Tequila Express offers a compelling way to do so. This tour promises a scenic train ride from Guadalajara to the heart of tequila country, combined with visits to historic distilleries and a taste of local culture. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, we’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and who it might be perfect (or not-so-perfect) for.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are the combination of comfort and culture. The train itself is a relaxed, scenic way to travel, and the included visit to Casa Sauza offers a tangible connection to tequila’s history and production. Plus, the lively folkloric show and regional cuisine add authentic touches that make the day memorable. On the flip side, one potential consideration is that this tour is geared toward adults, especially those interested in tequila and cultural experiences—families with young children might find it less suitable.

That said, if you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free trip that combines scenic travel, cultural insight, and regional gastronomy, this could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about local traditions, tasting regional drinks, and experiencing Mexico’s scenic countryside from a comfortable train seat.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Private pickup and air-conditioned vehicle ensure a smooth start and end.
• Cultural Depth: Visits to Casa Sauza and the UNESCO-listed tequila landscape provide authentic insights.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Meals, drinks, and folklore show included, offering good value for the price.
• Time Commitment: A full-day tour around 12 hours, perfect if you want an immersive experience.
• Adult-Oriented: Best suited for travelers interested in tequila, cuisine, and cultural shows.
• Limited Flexibility: Non-refundable booking, so be sure your plans are firm.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Off: Ease and Comfort

The tour kicks off bright and early at 9:00am, with a private, air-conditioned vehicle ready to pick you up from your accommodation in Guadalajara. This is a practical touch that saves you from navigating public transportation or taxis, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city. The journey to Tequila itself is about two hours, giving you a chance to relax and maybe enjoy the scenic views of the Jalisco countryside.

The Scenic Ride on the Tequila Express

Once aboard the Tequila Express train, you’ll settle into a relaxed atmosphere that promises a blend of comfort and charm. The train’s vibe is generally described as joyful and lively, with lots of opportunities to chat and enjoy the scenery. While no specific review quotes are provided about the train’s interior, the inclusion of snacks and a drinks bar with tequila and soft drinks suggests a casual, convivial environment.

Exploring Tequila and the UNESCO Landscape

The journey includes a stop in the magical town of Tequila, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006. This part of the trip is particularly appealing if you want to see the landscape that’s so iconic for tequila production—vast agave fields stretching across the hills, with that unmistakable blue-green hue.

This stop is about two hours long, giving you time to soak in the sights, snap photos, and get a feel for the town’s vibe. It’s a chance to wander through streets lined with colorful buildings and perhaps get a glimpse of the local artisans and shops. The fact that this is a free admission point makes it accessible without additional costs.

Visiting Casa Sauza

The highlight of the tour for many is the visit to Hacienda La Perseverancia, home of Casa Sauza. Here you’re in the heart of tequila tradition, walking through a historic hacienda that blends history, architecture, and tradition. The three-hour stay includes a detailed distillery tour—covering everything from agave harvesting, cooking, fermentation, distillation, to bottling. It’s a comprehensive look at how tequila is made, which can be especially interesting if you’re curious about the process or just want to deepen your appreciation for the drink.

The tour is not just educational; it’s also pretty engaging because it’s set in an elegant environment with a historic feel. Reviewers mention that the hacienda combines tradition with a sense of style, making it a memorable part of the experience.

Lunch and Entertainment

After the distillery visit, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring six typical regional dishes. Basic salads and baked vegetables accompany the main courses, offering a satisfying regional taste without being overly fancy. The meal is complemented by a live mariachi folklore show in the gardens of the hacienda, adding a lively, authentic touch that’s perfect for enjoying local culture.

Soft drinks and an open bar of tequila and water are available throughout, which helps keep the mood relaxed. Reviewers note that the drinks bar is quite varied, making it easy to sample different tequilas if you’re interested.

Return Journey and Final Stops

After lunch and the show, the train heads back to Guadalajara, where your transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel or home. The total length of the tour, about 12 hours, means you’re spending a full day immersed in tequila country—an experience designed to be immersive, not rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides air-conditioned transportation, snacks, an open bar with tequila, soft drinks, and water, plus a buffet lunch and a folklore show. These inclusions are quite generous, making the $320 fee reasonable considering the full day of activities and transport.

However, tips are not included, so keep that in mind if you want to tip your guides or staff. Also, since the tour is non-refundable, it’s best to confirm your plans beforehand.

Practicalities and Considerations

This experience is recommended for adults and requires a moderate physical fitness level—so it might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues. The group size can be up to 200 travelers, but with the pick-up service and organized itinerary, it generally feels manageable.

Timing-wise, starting at 9:00am makes it a good full-day option, but it’s worth noting that cancellations are only possible if minimum numbers aren’t met, and refunds are not available if you change your mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys cultural trips, scenic train rides, and sampling regional drinks, this tour is a solid choice. It offers an organized, all-inclusive way to peek into Mexico’s tequila heritage without the hassle of planning. The combination of a relaxed train journey, a historic hacienda visit, and lively entertainment makes for a memorable day.

On the other hand, if you’re after a more flexible or budget-friendly experience, or you prefer activities suited for children or families, this particular tour might not tick all the boxes. It’s best suited for adults with a curiosity for tequila, history enthusiasts, or travelers wanting a seamless, guided day in Mexico’s iconic landscape.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, a private vehicle will pick you up from your hotel or address in Guadalajara, making the start of your day smooth and convenient.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts around 12 hours, including transportation, visits, lunch, and entertainment.

What is included in the price?
You get transportation, snacks, an open bar with tequila and soft drinks, a buffet lunch, and a folklore show. Tips are not included.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
No, this tour is non-refundable. It requires a minimum number of travelers, and if that minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for adults only, mainly because of the focus on tequila and the nature of the activities.

What is the tour’s starting time?
The tour begins at 9:00am, so plan for a full day out.

Are the activities accessible for people with limited mobility?
A moderate physical fitness level is recommended; those with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

In the end, the Tequila Express offers a stylish, all-in-one way to explore one of Mexico’s most iconic regions, combining scenic train travel with cultural and culinary experiences. Whether you’re a tequila lover or just curious about Mexican traditions, this tour can give you a memorable, hassle-free day in Jalisco.