Bar Tour of the Coolest Quarter of Guadalajara

If you’re heading to Guadalajara and want to experience its vibrant nightlife in a fun, social way, a bar tour through the city’s coolest neighborhood might just be your best bet. This particular tour, offered by Checo Tours, promises a lively four-hour journey through some of the best bars and clubs in the area — all for a surprisingly affordable price of around $16.67 per person. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a solid idea of what to expect, along with some honest tips to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it combines the social aspect of a pub crawl with the opportunity to see a trendy part of Guadalajara, all while keeping things budget-friendly. Plus, it’s easy to join, with mobile ticketing and a small group size, which tends to make the whole outing feel more personal and less chaotic. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is geared toward those 21 and older, and it mainly appeals to travelers looking to connect, drink, and dance late into the night.

One aspect to consider is that this tour doesn’t include transportation between the stops, so if you’re not staying nearby or don’t want to walk, you might need to arrange your own way to get from one place to another. Also, it’s a social-only event — no dinner or private transport included — so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or prefer a more relaxed pace.

All in all, this tour should fit well for anyone who enjoys lively nights out, wants to meet fellow travelers, and isn’t expecting a formal or guided experience beyond the bar hopping itself. It’s especially good if you’re interested in exploring Guadalajara’s nightlife scene without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just over $16, this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore Guadalajara’s nightlife.
• Social Atmosphere: Small group size (max 20 travelers) makes for a more intimate, friendly environment.
• Varied Stops: From warm-up spots to speakeasy-style bars and dance clubs, each stop has its own vibe.
• No Private Transport: You’ll need to walk or arrange your own transportation between locations.
• Age Restriction: Only travelers over 21 are served alcohol, so plan accordingly.
• Time Flexibility: Each stop is timed to give you a taste of each spot — from 30 minutes to an hour — enough to enjoy drinks and atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Efraina — The Meeting Point

The tour kicks off around 9:30 pm at Efraina, a place that’s been a local favorite for over 10 years. Think of it as a cozy, welcoming space where the group begins to mingle and loosen up. It’s your chance to meet the group, chat with fellow travelers, and get the night rolling. Since it’s the starting point, expect a relaxed vibe and perhaps some warm-up drinks to prepare for the night ahead.

Sofy Boom — First Bar and Food Options

From there, the group heads to Sofy Boom, the first actual bar stop. Here, you’ll have about 50 minutes to enjoy a few drinks and, if needed, grab some food. The fact that you can eat here is a bonus, especially if you’re arriving hungry — after all, the next stops will be all about dancing and drinks. The bar’s atmosphere is lively, and it’s a good chance to settle in and start socializing more comfortably.

PIMP — The Speakeasy Experience

Next, the tour takes you to PIMP, which is described as a “speakeasy” bar. This is one of the highlights — a more exclusive, intimate setting where you can savor craft drinks and enjoy a different vibe from the typical bar scene. The experience of trying “secret” drinks and stepping into a hidden spot adds an element of adventure, and it’s likely to be a memorable part of your night.

Rakata Chapultepec — The Grand Finale

The last stop is always the Rakata club, where the night truly turns into a dance party. Expect to spend about an hour here, dancing to lively beats and enjoying the festive atmosphere. Since this is always the closing venue, it’s the perfect place to let loose and soak in the energy of Guadalajara’s nightlife. Plus, since the tour includes the club cover, you get a hassle-free entry.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of $16.67, you’re getting quite a bit. The tour includes four tequila shots and admission to the club, which in many places would be a significant part of the night’s expense. This makes the value quite good, especially considering the lively stops and the guided aspect.

However, dinner isn’t included, so if you’re arriving hungry, consider grabbing a bite beforehand or planning to eat during the stops. Also, transportation between bars isn’t provided, so you should be prepared to walk or find your own way if you’re not staying close to the starting point.

Group Size and Experience

With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour tends to stay small and manageable, making it easier to connect with others and enjoy the experience. The group dynamic can really influence your night — if you enjoy social settings, this setup is ideal. But if you’re more independent or prefer a quiet evening, it might not be your best fit.

The tour starts at 9:30 pm and lasts about four hours, so it’s perfect for those who like to dive straight into the nightlife without an early start. Remember, this experience is for those over 18 or 21, depending on alcohol laws, and it’s designed for those who are physically mobile — there’s walking involved between stops.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While there are no reviews available just yet, based on the tour’s structure and offerings, we can imagine that travelers might find the variety of bars and the inclusive nature appealing. The fact that the last stop is always a dance club means that you’re likely to end the night dancing rather than just drinking, which many find more memorable.

Some might find the time at each stop just right — enough to enjoy the atmosphere and drinks without dragging on too long. But others might wish for more time at their favorite spots or more variety in the stops. The fixed itinerary means you get a curated experience but less flexibility.

Practical Tips for Your Night Out

• Arrive Hungry: While food isn’t included, you can eat at the first bar or beforehand.
• Stay Hydrated: With the alcohol and dancing, drink plenty of water to keep your energy up.
• Dress Comfortably: Expect to walk and dance, so wear something comfortable but stylish enough for nightlife.
• Bring Cash: Some bars might not accept cards, so carry enough cash for extras.
• Respect Local Laws: Since alcohol is served only to over-21s, carry your ID if you’re close to the age limit.
• Plan Your Transportation: Know how you’ll get back after the tour concludes, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This bar crawl is ideal for travelers who want a social and energetic night out without spending a lot. It’s perfect if you’re keen to explore Guadalajara’s nightlife scene in a friendly, guided way. If you enjoy meeting new people, dancing late, and trying different bars, you’ll likely have a good time.

It’s less suited for those looking for a quiet, romantic evening or a structured, all-included tour. If you’re traveling alone, it’s a great chance to meet others, but if you prefer a private experience, this might not be the best option.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Bar Tour of the Coolest Quarter of Guadalajara offers a solid way to spend an evening soaking in the city’s nightlife without a hefty price tag. It balances social interaction, exploring trendy bars, and ending with a dance — all within a four-hour window. The small-group format and inclusion of drinks and club entry make it a straightforward, fun option for those who want to be part of Guadalajara’s lively scene.

If you’re comfortable with walking, enjoy nightlife, and want a lively night filled with new faces and good music, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember, it’s a social pub crawl — not a formal sightseeing tour — so go with an open mind and a ready-to-party attitude.

FAQ

Is transportation included between the stops? No, the tour does not provide transportation. You’ll need to walk or arrange your own way between the bars.

What is the start time? The tour begins at 9:30 pm.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately four hours, covering multiple stops in the neighborhood.

Are drinks included? Yes, you get four tequila shots included in the price.

Can I bring food or snacks? Food isn’t included in the tour, but you can eat at the first bar or before the tour starts.

Is there a minimum age? Yes, only travelers over 21 are served alcohol.

What’s the group size? The maximum is 20 travelers, making for a manageable, social experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This lively pub crawl is a straightforward, budget-friendly way to dive into Guadalajara’s nightlife. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or just looking to explore a new part of the city, it offers a fun, social scene in one of Mexico’s most vibrant cities.