The 3 Best Tours in Guadalajara
Guadalajara is a city brimming with culture, color, and stories waiting to be uncovered. It’s not just about the tequila and mariachi — the surrounding towns and landscapes offer authentic experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re interested in traditional Mexican crafts, scenic lake cruises, or mountain adventures, Guadalajara’s tour options deliver. One trip we particularly like is the Tonalá and Tlaquepaque Private Pottery Experience, which offers a deep dive into local artisanship and history (see details here).
What makes these tours stand out is their focus on genuine local encounters. The Lake Chapala Tour explores one of Mexico’s largest lakes with boat rides and visits to charming towns, while the Tapalpa Mountain Tour combines natural beauty with outdoor activities and small-town charm. These experiences are perfect if you’re looking for more than just sightseeing — they’re about connecting with the roots, scenery, and flavors of Jalisco.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours in Guadalajara, each offering unique ways to explore the region’s culture, nature, and history.
1. Tonalá and Tlaquepaque Tour: Private Mexican Pottery Experience
Taking the top spot, the Tonalá and Tlaquepaque Private Pottery Experience is a perfect choice for those wanting an intimate and hands-on look at Mexican ceramics. For around $167.28 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a personalized journey through two of Jalisco’s most famous artisan towns. Starting with a private guide, you’ll explore colonial architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant workshops. You’ll visit the Galería Bernabe, known for its exquisite ceramics, and the Tonalá Craft Market, the largest in Guadalajara, which is a treasure trove of handcrafted art.
The tour is unique because of its focus on live artisan workshops and museums, where you can see pottery techniques passed down through generations. Your guide will facilitate personal interactions with artisans, making this tour both educational and warm. The Mercado Municipal Tonalá gives you a taste of local flavors — from tacos to chilaquiles — and the Parroquia de Santiago Apostol adds a colonial touch to the day.
What makes this experience stand out is the private format, ensuring you and your companions get undivided attention. Reviews rave about the welcoming artisans and the warmth of the guides, with one noting, “Our tour guide was wonderful! The artisans welcomed us like family.” It’s an excellent choice if you’re passionate about arts and crafts or want a more meaningful, customizable experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an authentic, personal look at Jalisco’s pottery heritage, perfect for art lovers and those seeking an immersive cultural experience.
2. Lake Chapala Tour: Mezcala Island & Ajijic with a Local Expert
Second on our list, the Lake Chapala Tour takes you from the city to Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, with a full day of exploring lakeside towns, islands, and local markets. For $178.28 per person, you get a mix of scenic boat rides and cultural visits over 8 to 10 hours. The highlight is the boat trip to Mezcala Island, where a local guide explains the island’s strategic military importance during Mexico’s War of Independence — a fascinating history lesson combined with the tranquility of the water.
The tour also includes visits to Chapala, Ajijic, and the Antigua Estacion De Ferrocarril, a museum dedicated to the region’s railway past, providing insight into how the area developed. The town of Ajijic, famed for its art galleries and lively streets, is a favorite for travelers looking to soak in local charm. You’ll have time to stroll along the Chapala Malecón, where vendors sell crafts and regional food, and sample delicious seafood with water views.
What makes this tour special is the combination of boat travel and cultural exploration, giving you a balanced mix of scenery and history. Reviewers commend the guide’s knowledge, with one saying, “Fernando was very attentive and made the day memorable.” It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed pace and a taste of lakeside life.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in picturesque lakeside towns, boat rides, and local history, this trip provides a rich, manageable day out from Guadalajara.
3. Tapalpa Tour: Full-day Mountains Private Experience
Our third pick, the Tapalpa Mountain Tour, offers a full day of natural beauty and outdoor fun for $211.70 per person. Over approximately 10 to 12 hours, you’ll travel through the Sierra Madre Occidental to reach this picturesque Magic Town. The itinerary is flexible — you can hike, horseback ride, or just enjoy the stunning scenery of forests and giant stones called Las Piedrotas.
The tour includes a visit to Aventuras La Ceja, where you can take in sweeping views from a cliff 800 meters high, and experience paragliding if weather permits. The charming town of Tapalpa itself is a highlight, with its colonial architecture and lively main square. You’ll also visit the Mercado del Artesano, a market filled with regional crafts, and have time for a delicious traditional lunch featuring roasted lamb or goat stew.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of adventure and culture. It’s perfect for active travelers or families wanting to experience the highlands’ scenic landscapes. Reviewers praise the host, Fernando, calling the experience “phenomenal,” with many noting the area’s stunning views and the variety of activities.
Bottom Line: If you love mountain scenery, outdoor activities, and a taste of small-town Jalisco, this full-day tour is ideal.
How to Choose
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend. If you’re passionate about Mexican crafts and artisan workshops, the Tonalá and Tlaquepaque Tour (see details here) offers an intimate, hands-on experience. Those craving scenic lakeside towns, boat rides, and cultural history should consider the Lake Chapala Tour (details here), which provides a relaxed day exploring charming towns. For adventure and nature lovers, the Tapalpa Mountain Tour (more here) delivers outdoor fun in the highlands.
Think about your budget, physical activity level, and whether you prefer culture or scenic landscapes. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the pottery experience or the lake trip, to secure spots and avoid last-minute disappointments.
Final Thoughts
Guadalajara’s surrounding regions offer a variety of experiences, from artisan workshops and lakeside towns to mountain adventures. The Tonalá and Tlaquepaque tour is ideal for craft lovers who want a personalized, behind-the-scenes view of ceramic traditions. The Lake Chapala Tour offers a leisurely day exploring water, towns, and history, perfect for those wanting scenic beauty and local flavor. For active travelers seeking breathtaking vistas and outdoor activities, the Tapalpa Mountain Tour won’t disappoint.
No matter your choice, these tours showcase the diversity of Guadalajara’s nearby attractions. We recommend booking early, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure you get your preferred experience. Whichever you pick, you’re in for a memorable journey that highlights the best of Jalisco’s culture, landscapes, and traditions.
