If you’re planning a trip to Baja California and want to experience Ensenada without the usual hustle, this tour is worth considering. It offers a blend of history, local flavors, and a touch of vintage charm—especially if you’re into classic cars and cultural stops.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines sightseeing with tasting some of the best local treats, like the birthplace of the margarita and some excellent regional wines. Plus, riding in a genuine Ford Model T adds a fun, nostalgic vibe that makes the whole tour feel special.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is the tour duration—just two hours—which means it’s quite compact. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or want a quick overview, but don’t expect a deep dive into each stop.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and a little indulgence, especially if you appreciate unique transport experiences and local flavors.

Key Points

Vintage Ride: Traveling through Ensenada in a classic Ford Model T makes for a memorable, photo-worthy experience.
Cultural & Historic Sites: Visits to the Riviera Cultural Center and Riviera del Pacifico bring the city’s past to life.
Local Flavors: Tasting the original margarita and sampling local wines and tequilas are highlights.
Short & Sweet: The two-hour tour is quick but packed with notable stops.
Inclusive & Flexible: Hotel and port pickup and drop-off make it convenient, and you can reserve with flexible payment options.
Educational: Learn about opals, tequila, and the city’s history from guides who speak both English and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Ensenada Ford Model T Tour

This tour stands out for its vintage transportation, which instantly sets a relaxed, fun tone. Imagine cruising through Ensenada’s streets in a beautifully restored Ford Model T—an experience that’s both charming and visually interesting. The driver and guide provide live commentary, which helps you appreciate what you’re seeing while adding local tidbits you might not find in a guidebook.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or the cruise port, making it easy to join without extra fuss. The first stop is the Bar Andaluz, renowned as the birthplace of the margarita. Here, you can sip a margarita in a historic setting—it’s a neat way to kick off your exploration with a beverage that’s synonymous with Ensenada. While you might not get the cocktail included in the price, the chance to learn about its origins and enjoy it where it was invented adds a layer of authenticity to your trip.

Next, you’ll visit the Riviera Cultural Center, once a hotel and casino frequented by Al Capone. The building’s history adds a bit of intrigue, and the exhibits shed light on Ensenada’s cultural evolution. It’s a quick but meaningful stop for history buffs or anyone curious about local stories.

The Opal Mine is a fascinating place, especially if you’re into gemstones. We loved the way the guide explained the world of opals—their formation, varieties, and what makes them special. If you’re into jewelry or just enjoy learning about natural stones, this spot delivers.

The Tequila Museum offers an up-close look at the tequila-making process—from plant to bottle. While samples of tequila aren’t included in the tour price, you can purchase tastings and enjoy six varieties, which many reviewers find to be a highlight. It’s a fun way to deepen your appreciation for Mexico’s most famous spirit, especially when paired with the knowledgeable commentary.

Finally, you’ll visit Bodegas De Santo Tomás, the first winery in Baja California, where you can taste local wines or buy a bottle to take home. The wine selection is praised as excellent, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to savor your favorites.

The Experience and Atmosphere

Traveling in the Model T is surprisingly comfortable—it’s a laid-back ride with a nostalgic charm that transports you back in time. The small group setting (private group) means the experience feels intimate and tailored, without feeling rushed. Guides are friendly and bilingual, making the conversation engaging whether you speak English or Spanish.

Most reviews mention the value for the $90 price point. Considering the transportation, guided commentary, and admission fees included, it’s a reasonable way to get a comprehensive taste of Ensenada’s highlights in a short time. It’s especially good if you want a relaxing, visually charming outing that’s also informative.

What to Expect & Practical Tips

The tour lasts about two hours, so it’s perfect for fitting into a day with other planned activities. Since the stops are relatively quick, don’t expect long tasting sessions—these are brief but meaningful. Alcoholic drinks like tequila and wine are not included in the price but are available for purchase, so if you’re interested in sampling, bring some extra cash or a card.

The tour is presented as a private group, which means a more personalized experience. The pickup and drop-off are included, easing the logistics—just confirm your pick-up point when booking. The tour is bilingual, so guides will communicate in both Spanish and English, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

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Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the short duration. If you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of each site, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since tastings of tequila and wine are extra, if you’re a enthusiast wanting to sample extensively, budget accordingly.

Some reviews mention that the tour might be a bit on the quick side, but most agree that it’s a fun, worthwhile snapshot of Ensenada’s culture and flavors. If you prefer a more leisurely, in-depth tour, you might want to explore other options, but for a quick, charming introduction, this hits the spot.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy a bit of everything—history, culture, tasty samples, and a unique mode of transport. It’s especially appealing if you’re a fan of vintage cars or want a fun story to tell. It’s also well-suited for those with limited time, as it packs several highlights into just two hours.

While not specifically geared toward families or children, older kids with an interest in history or gemstones might find it engaging. It’s an overall laid-back outing, so anyone looking for an enjoyable, hassle-free way to see Ensenada’s key spots should consider it.

✨ Book This Experience

Ensenada: City Tour in a Ford Model T with Margarita & Wine

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves short stops and a vintage car ride, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with the provider about specific needs.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, alcoholic drinks like tequila and wine are not included in the price but are available for purchase during the visit to the Tequila Museum and winery.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, which makes it more intimate and flexible.

What languages are available?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it a short and sweet introduction to Ensenada.

What’s included in the price?
Driver/guide, live commentary, hotel and port pickup/drop-off, and entry to each stop are included. Tastings and drinks are extra.

Can I buy souvenirs or additional items?
Yes, souvenir photos and additional drinks can be purchased at the stops.

Is there any food included?
No, food isn’t included, but you can buy local snacks or tapas at some stops.

Would this tour be good for families?
It’s more suited for adults or older children interested in culture and tasting local beverages; not specifically family-focused.

If you’re after a fun, quick snapshot of Ensenada with a dash of history, some tasty samples, and a show-stopping vintage ride, this tour offers a charming way to spend a couple of hours. It’s relaxed, informative, and gives you a taste of what makes Ensenada special—perfect for curious travelers who like a bit of everything in their outings.