Fun Full and Cheap Tequila Tour from GDL on Thursdays

Fun Full and Cheap Tequila Tour from GDL on Thursdays: An Honest Look

If you’re planning a trip to Guadalajara and want to explore the world of tequila beyond just tasting shots in a bar, this tour promises a fun-filled, affordable way to do it. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it strikes me as a solid choice for travelers curious about tequila, local culture, and scenic views—all in one day.

What I really appreciate about this experience is its balance: it combines visits to authentic distilleries with the chance to see the beautiful landscapes of Jalisco, all while keeping the cost reasonable. Plus, the inclusion of lively local spots like Cantaritos El Güero adds a fun, relaxed vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a pretty full day—about 10 hours—and involves some walking and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical ability. If you’re after a laid-back, sightseeing style tour that dives into tequila’s roots and culture, this could be a great pick. It’s especially good if you’re traveling in a group or solo but want to get a diverse taste of the region.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $55, it offers good value for a full-day experience.
• Diverse Stops: From distilleries to scenic viewpoints, the tour covers both production and landscape.
• Expert Guides: Known for knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn and taste your way through tequila’s story.
• Fun Atmosphere: The lively music and vibrant spots like Cantaritos ensure a memorable vibe.
• Limited Meals: No included meals or drinks, so plan for your own snacks and beverages.
• Moderate Fitness Needed: Walking involved, so some physical mobility helps.

What to Expect from This Tour

This tour offers an overview of tequila making, local culture, and scenic vistas in the Tequila region of Jalisco. Starting at 9:00am from Guadalajara, it lasts roughly 10 hours, which means a packed day but plenty of variety. You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle—important for the area’s warm weather—and visit several carefully chosen stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Tequila Don Valente

Your journey begins at Tequila Don Valente, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how tequila is crafted. This part is particularly engaging because the guide explains the process—from agave fields to distillation. Plus, there’s a tasting of Don Valente’s tequila, and a fun bonus: you get to ride a horse and take a bottle home as a gift. This personalized touch is likely to appeal to those who love a bit of local charm.

Pros: The tasting is included, and the hands-on experience makes it memorable.
Possible downside: One hour might feel brief if you’re a tequila enthusiast.

Stop 2: Amatitan

Next, you visit Amatitán, the birthplace of tequila, walking through historic grottoes and learning about the area’s significance. The guide shares stories that add depth, making this more than just a tasting stop. You’ll sample different tequilas again, with free admission, which means you can indulge without worries about extra costs.

Highlight: Authentic historic atmosphere and free tastings.
Tip: Take your time to soak in the scenery and ask questions.

Stop 3: Campo Azul – Blue Field

This is one of the more scenic and adrenaline-filled stops. At Campo Azul, you get panoramic views from a glass viewpoint overlooking the agave fields, perfect for photos. The site is known for its extreme swing, orbitron, and impressive sculptures. If you’re into outdoor fun, this stop energizes the day.

Pros: Stunning views and fun attractions.
Note: The activities here are included, so expect some thrill-seeking moments.

Stop 4: Town of Tequila

The capital, Tequila town, offers a charming stroll through picturesque streets, with colorful buildings and bustling plazas. You’ll have about two hours to wander, observe monuments, and sample local cuisine, so bring your camera and appetite.

Authentic vibe: The town feels lively yet relaxed, perfect for soaking in local flavor.
Consideration: With limited time, you might want to prioritize certain sights or shops.

Stop 5: Aguirrena Distillery

Back in the village, the Aguirrena Distillery is known for its tastings and local tequila sales. It’s a good spot to pick up souvenirs or bottles at reasonable prices, making it a practical stop if you want to bring home a taste of Jalisco.

Insight: Knowing where to buy good tequila at fair prices is handy.
Tip: Allocate about an hour here, including shopping.

Stop 6: Cantaritos El Güero

The tour wraps up at Cantaritos El Güero, famous for its lively atmosphere, live music, and the signature drink—the cantarito. This spot is all about fun, dancing, and local entertainment, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

Vibe: Authentic, energetic, and social.
Note: No admission fee, but bring your dancing shoes.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price, around $55, covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all guided visits, tastings at certain stops, and access to attractions like the extreme swing. It’s quite a comprehensive package considering the number of stops and activities.

However, alcoholic beverages are not included apart from the tastings, and meals or drinks are outside the scope of the tour. You’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to eat during the free time in Tequila town.

The Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour feels personalized enough to ask questions and get some attention from the guide. Starting at 9:00am and ending back at the meeting point, the timing is tight but doable for a full day of exploration.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– You’ll learn about tequila production from passionate guides who know their stuff.
– The scenic views, especially from Campo Azul, are stunning and photo-worthy.
– The blend of cultural sights, tastings, and lively spots like Cantaritos offers a well-rounded experience.
– The cost is quite reasonable for a full-day tour with so many stops.

Cons:
– The tour involves a lot of walking and outdoor activity, so it’s less suited for those with mobility issues.
– No meals are included, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
– The busy schedule means limited time at each stop—if you’re a tequila fanatic, you might wish for longer tastings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a fun, affordable way to learn about tequila, see some beautiful landscapes, and enjoy local music and atmosphere, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good for first-timers or groups looking for a social, lively day out. Keep in mind that it’s a full-day experience, so if you prefer a relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day.

Are meals included? No, you should plan to have your own snacks or meals during the free time in Tequila town.

Can I buy souvenirs on the tour? Yes, at the Aguirrena Distillery, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase tequila and souvenirs at reasonable prices.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour involves some outdoor activities and walking, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, so use your judgment.

What is the tour duration? Approximately 10 hours, including all stops and travel.

Are the tastings included? Yes, tastings are included at Tequila Don Valente, Amatitán, and Aguirrena Distillery.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, on average, it’s booked 14 days ahead. It’s a good idea to secure your spot early.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour only offered on Thursdays? Based on the current info, it’s specifically scheduled for Thursdays.

Final Thoughts

This tequila tour from Guadalajara offers a spirited mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and taste-testing, all at a price that doesn’t break the bank. It’s ideal for travelers who want a lively, engaging day exploring Mexico’s iconic spirit, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained.

If you’re interested in learning about tequila’s roots, enjoying beautiful landscapes, and experiencing local music and festivities, this experience ticks those boxes. Just remember, it’s a full day, so arrive prepared for some walking and outdoor fun, and bring a healthy appetite for both tequila and local cuisine.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or in a small group, this tour offers a friendly, immersive peek into one of Mexico’s most famous exports. It’s not a luxury experience, but it’s genuine, fun, and a great way to make some memorable moments in Jalisco.

Happy travels and cheers to discovering the spirit of Mexico!