Tour of the La Aguirreña tequila factory with tasting in Tequila, Jalisco.

Tour of the La Aguirreña tequila factory with tasting in Tequila, Jalisco

If you’re pondering a visit to Tequila, Jalisco, and want a genuine insight into how this iconic spirit is made, this tour might be just what you’re after. Priced at a modest $25 per person for about 3 hours, it offers a decent glimpse into the heart of tequila production with a mix of sightseeing, learning, and tasting.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the blend of activities: a scenic hop-on hop-off bus tour through the town, coupled with a visit to an authentic agave field and a close-up look at the La Aguirreña factory. Plus, the guided explanation of the distillation process adds a layer of knowledge that can transform a simple tasting into a more meaningful experience.

One thing to consider, though, is that the tour’s itinerary is quite structured, so if you’re after an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at multiple factories, this might feel a bit limited. Still, for those wanting a manageable, straightforward intro to tequila’s roots, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is especially suited for first-timers in Tequila, casual travelers who want a concise overview, or anyone interested in the cultural and historical side of tequila making without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable & compact: At $25, it’s a budget-friendly way to see and taste tequila.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines town sightseeing, agave fields, and factory visits.
• Educational component: Guides explain the tequila production process clearly.
• Taste included: Tasting at La Aguirreña makes the visit more memorable.
• Accessible & flexible: Meets at a central point, with options for morning, afternoon, or evening.
• Good for casual visitors: Focuses on a broad overview rather than deep dives into production.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Journey of the Tour

When you sign up for this tour, you’re essentially signing up for a well-rounded introduction to tequila in its hometown. Starting at Parroquia Santiago Apóstol, the meeting point is easy to find and provides a charming backdrop to kick off your experience. From there, a 30-minute hop-on hop-off bus ride takes you through the streets of Tequila, giving you a quick but worthwhile peek at the local scenery and architecture. Expect plenty of photo opportunities, especially around the town’s historic spots.

What to Expect During the Town Tour

The bus tour is designed to be light and flexible, lasting about an hour, with stops for photos and brief visits. During this part, you’ll get a taste of what makes Tequila special — its colorful streets, traditional buildings, and lively atmosphere. According to reviews, this part is generally appreciated for giving a good sense of the town’s vibe without feeling rushed.

Visiting the Agave Field

Next, you’ll head to one of the agave fields. This is where you’ll see the raw ingredients that make tequila possible. It’s an essential stop because it helps you understand the size and scale of agave farming and why this plant is so vital to the local economy. While the tour doesn’t specify how long you’ll stay, most travelers find this stop meaningful — it’s a chance to see the plant in its natural environment and appreciate the effort involved in harvesting it.

Inside La Aguirreña Factory

The highlight of the tour is a guided walk through the La Aguirreña tequila factory. Here, you’ll learn about the history, development, and manufacturing process of tequila, from agave roasting to distillation. According to reviews, the guide does a good job explaining each step in accessible language, which makes the complex process easier to grasp.

Visitors often comment on the friendly atmosphere inside the factory and how the staff is open to questions. The tour isn’t the most extensive, but it covers enough to satisfy curious travelers. The tequila tasting at the end is a natural conclusion, allowing you to sample the product and connect it with what you’ve learned.

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The Tasting Experience

The tasting component is straightforward but satisfying. It’s included in the price, and you’ll get to try a few different tequilas, possibly from La Aguirreña or other local varieties. This part is both fun and educational — it helps you identify flavors and appreciate the nuances of good tequila. Some reviews mention that the taste is quite authentic, and the experience helps deepen your understanding of why tequila is so cherished.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The entire day is organized with a behind-the-scenes feel, but it’s paced comfortably, with a total duration of around 3 hours. After the initial bus tour, you’ll visit the agave field, which is typically a short walk or drive from the town center. The factory visit usually lasts about 80 minutes, giving enough time for the guided tour and tequila tasting without feeling rushed.

The sequential stops are logical, with 30-minute intervals for transportation and sightseeing. This makes the trip manageable, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a relaxed pace. Since the tour includes transportation, a guide, and tasting, the value for the price is quite reasonable.

However, some travelers mention that the tour’s structure means you don’t get an in-depth look at multiple brands or production methods. But if you’re just after an enjoyable overview and some authentic tasting, this setup works well.

The Experience Provider & Similar Options

Operated by Los Pueblitos, the tour benefits from local expertise and a friendly guide. The live English-speaking guide helps make the experience accessible for international visitors, and the wheelchair accessibility makes it inclusive for many travelers.

If you’re interested in similar experiences, there are plenty of other tours available, including premium tequila routes, factory visits, and tastings. Some options explore more brands or focus on pairing tequila with food, but this tour offers a solid, no-fuss introduction suitable for most casual visitors.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors to Tequila who want a cost-effective, well-organized introduction without committing to a full-day or multiple-factory experience. It’s also great for those who enjoy light sightseeing combined with tasting, and appreciate learning about tequila in a friendly, accessible setting.

If you’re on a budget or prefer a shorter tour that still covers the essentials, this is a smart choice. However, if you’re already familiar with tequila or eager for a more immersive, behind-the-scenes experience, you may want to look for options that include visits to multiple factories or more detailed production insights.

Overall, it’s an enjoyable, uncomplicated way to connect with Tequila’s culture and heritage without feeling overwhelmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages, but note that it’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years. It involves walking and standing, but the logistics are manageable.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included for the entire duration, starting and ending at the central meeting point opposite Los Portales.

What should I bring?
It’s good to bring a hat, water, and biodegradable sunscreen, especially since you’ll be outdoors during the agave field visit.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation, a live English tour guide, and the tequila tasting.

Are there any food options?
Food is not included in the tour. You might want to eat before or after or bring snacks, but keep in mind that the focus is on tequila, not full meals.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, with a mix of bus rides, visits, and tasting.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour is a solid, budget-friendly way to get a taste of Tequila’s spirit and culture. It provides enough insights and experience to satisfy curious travelers and those new to tequila without overwhelming them. Perfect for a quick, enjoyable overview — especially if you’re visiting Tequila for the first time and want a taste of the local craft.

You can check availability for your dates here: