From Ensenada: Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour

Imagine basking in the warm Baja sun while meandering through rolling hills dotted with vineyards, cheese farms, and lavender fields. For just $107 per person, you get six hours of exploring the Ojos Negros Valley, a lesser-known but equally charming alternative to the more famous Valle de Guadalupe. Led by friendly guides, this tour offers a taste of Baja’s artisan side—perfect for wine lovers, cheese aficionados, and curious travelers alike.

What makes this outing stand out? First, the personalized visits to boutique wineries and cheese producers—you won’t find this level of intimacy on larger tours. Second, the opportunity to explore the only lavender farm in Baja, adding a fragrant, colorful touch to your day.

However, keep in mind that some stops are subject to availability, which can mean a little unpredictability. Still, if you’re after authentic experiences and a chance to see a quieter, scenic corner of Baja California, this tour fits like a glove. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group settings, genuine local craftsmanship, and flexible, well-curated itineraries.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences with visits to boutique wineries, cheese makers, and lavender farms.
• Personalized attention from guides, often sharing detailed insights about wine, cheese, and the region.
• Scenic countryside with beautiful views and opportunities for photo stops.
• Flexible stops that include tasting artisan products, exploring lavender fields, and enjoying regional cuisine.
• All-in-one package with transportation, entrance fees, and guided tours included, offering great value.
• Subject to availability for some stops, which may influence the exact itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Ensenada, your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup from one of ten locations or a central meeting point if your lodging isn’t in the immediate area. The first stop is Infinito Winery, where you’ll meet Pepe Pedrosa, the owner and winemaker. Here, the focus is on understanding the wine-making process and enjoying a tasting—though, interestingly, the actual tasting is not included in the base price, so you’ll want to budget for that.

The winery tour offers a glimpse into Baja’s emerging wine scene, with its vineyards and production facilities. Peering over the rows of grapes, you can appreciate the craftsmanship behind each glass. The scenery along the way offers stunning views of rolling hills and vineyards, making it a delightful backdrop for photos.

Next, the tour moves to Rancho La Campana, home of Marcelo’s underground cheese cellar. Here, you’ll not only taste artisan cheeses paired with fine wines but also get a guided tour of the cheese-making process. You learn about the Ramonetti family’s century-long tradition of cheese production—an authentic touch that elevates the experience beyond just tasting.

The highlight for many is the visit to Aleyha Lavender Farm, which is only available Friday through Sunday. You’ll stroll through vivid lavender fields, with opportunities for photos amid the fragrant blossoms. The farm’s shop offers artisanal lavender products, perfect for souvenirs. If you’re a foodie, you might choose to visit the Grosso restaurant, where regional dishes flavored with lavender are served, although that’s at your own expense.

The final part of the day involves some free time for shopping or relaxing before the drop-off back in Ensenada. The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a full yet manageable day.

What We Love About the Tour

First, the small-group setting often means more personalized attention. Guides tend to be very knowledgeable and patient, eager to share insights about Baja’s wine and cheese regions. As one reviewer put it, “The guide was amazing and patient with us.”

Second, the scenic diversity is impressive—vineyards, mountains, lavender fields, and small farmsteads all in one compact route. The views help you appreciate how Baja California’s interior offers more than just beaches and Baja wine tourism; it’s a quiet, lush landscape worth exploring.

A Few Considerations

The main caveat is that some stops are subject to availability, like the lavender farm or winery tour. This can affect your expectations or the flow of your day. Plus, tastings at Infinito Winery are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly if you want to sample their wines during your visit.

While the tour is well-structured, it isn’t designed for travelers with mobility issues—walking around vineyards, farms, and uneven terrain could be challenging. Also, the duration and timing mean you should be prepared for a busy, yet relaxed, day of exploration.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits adventurous food and wine lovers who want to add a touch of authenticity to their Baja trip. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience—perfect if you enjoy conversation and personalized insights. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic countryside drives and are open to subject to availability stops.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, authentic alternative to larger, more commercial wine tours, this is a good pick. It’s especially appealing if you want to experience artisan cheese-making and lavender fields in a peaceful, scenic setting.

This Ojos Negros Valley cheese and wine experience offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, authentic tasting, and local craftsmanship. For just over six hours, you get an engaging look into Baja’s boutique wineries and cheese producers, along with the chance to take in breathtaking views that aren’t overrun by travelers.

The value lies in the personalized attention and the diversity of stops—from vineyards to cheese caves to lavender fields—each adding layers to your Baja adventure. Plus, with all transportation and entrance fees included, you won’t need to worry about hidden costs or logistical hassles.

While some stops depend on availability, the overall experience promises a relaxed pace and the chance to connect with local producers—something larger tours often lack. You’ll leave with a better understanding of Baja’s artisan spirit, a few memorable photos, and perhaps a bottle of locally produced wine or handmade cheese.

This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy food, wine, and scenic drives. If you’re seeking a genuine, less commercialized taste of Baja’s interior, this outing will not disappoint.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from ten specific locations around Ensenada, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 6 hours, which includes all visits, tastings, and transportation.

Are tastings at Infinito Winery included?
No, tastings at Infinito are not included in the base price. You might want to reserve some budget for that if you wish to taste their wines.

Can I visit the lavender farm?
Yes, but only from Friday to Sunday. It’s a beautiful spot with colorful fields and a shop for lavender products.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, participants must be 18 or older to consume alcohol, and the tour is designed for adults.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, cash for extra purchases, and a valid photo ID.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the nature of the stops.

This cheese and wine tour in Ojos Negros delivers a genuine taste of Baja’s artisan side—perfect for those eager to experience the region beyond its famous vineyards. It combines scenic drives with intimate visits to boutique producers, giving you a sense of the local craftsmanship and a chance to savor some excellent products.

If you love exploring small farms, discovering local flavors, or simply want a relaxed day in Baja’s countryside, this tour offers great value and memorable moments. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and authentic stops make it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers seeking a balanced mix of culture, flavor, and nature.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking a luxury, all-inclusive experience, it compensates with its focus on genuine local experiences and scenic charm. Perfect for those who prefer a smaller, more personal journey into Baja’s lesser-known rural treasures.