From Guadalajara: La Rojeña Distillery & Jose Cuervo Train is a popular day trip that takes you into the heart of Mexico’s most famous spirit, tequila. For about $215 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 hours exploring agave fields, learning about tequila production, and enjoying a lively train ride back to Guadalajara. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour balances educational insights with authentic Mexican culture — but with some caveats to consider.
What makes this experience stand out are the scenic journey aboard the José Cuervo Express and the visit to La Rojeña Distillery, Mexico’s oldest distillery. Watching the agave landscape roll by from the comfort of the train creates a memorable backdrop, and walking through the distillery offers a rare peek behind the scenes of tequila-making. Plus, the tour includes a guided tequila tasting, which is a highlight for spirits lovers.
However, some travelers note that the tour can feel a bit rushed — especially the visit to the distillery. While the overall experience is lively and informative, a few thought there was too much time spent in the initial ranch stop rather than in Tequila town itself. Plus, if you’re more interested in sampling a variety of tequilas or exploring local food scenes, you might find this trip somewhat limited.
This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, culturally rich experience that combines scenic travel, expert-led education, and lively entertainment. It’s especially ideal for first-timers eager to see tequila country with minimal hassle, appreciating the combination of sights, taste, and Mexican tradition.
Key Points
- Scenic Train Ride: The José Cuervo Express offers a comfortable, picturesque journey with stunning agave views.
- Educational Experience: Learn about tequila production and tasting from knowledgeable guides.
- Authentic Cultural Touches: Enjoy mariachi music, folkloric dances, and a traditional Mexican toast.
- Time Allocation: Be aware that some travelers feel the ranch stop is lengthy, leaving less time in Tequila town.
- Value for Price: Combines transportation, entertainment, and education, making it a comprehensive package.
- Limited Tasting Variety: If you’re eager to sample many tequilas, this tour might not fully satisfy that interest.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
Starting in Guadalajara
The tour kicks off at a designated meeting point in Guadalajara, with instructions to arrive 15 minutes early. From there, you’ll board a comfortable bus that takes you through the beautiful blue agave fields — a scene that’s as iconic as it is stunning. The landscape is dotted with rows of mature agave plants, stretching to the horizon, perfectly illustrating why this region is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the drive, your guide (sometimes mentioned as Efrain in reviews) may stop for a jimador demonstration, where an expert harvests agave using traditional tools. This live demonstration offers insight into the craftsmanship behind tequila and makes for some excellent photo opportunities.
The Ranch Stop—A Mixed Bag
Once in Tequila, the tour makes an initial stop at a ranch, which some find enjoyable but others feel is a bit lengthy. As one traveler from the U.S. noted, “Enjoyed the drinks and tamales breakfast. Loved the Maguey explanation from an expert. Spent a little too much time here and not in Tequila, the town.” This suggests that while the ranch and its demonstrations can be entertaining, it may eat into the time you’d prefer exploring the town itself.
The La Rojeña Distillery Tour
Next, the highlight for many is the guided tour of La Rojeña Distillery, the oldest in Latin America. You’ll walk through the distillery’s facilities, learning about each step from cooking the agave to fermentation and finally distillation. This behind-the-scenes look deepens appreciation for traditional methods, even as some modern equipment is evident.
Tequila Tasting
Following the distillery visit, an expert-led tequila tasting lets you savor a single drink and learn how to appreciate its nuances. While some reviews mention this is more about a single drink rather than multiple shots or varieties, it still provides a good foundation for understanding tequila’s complexities.
Mundo Cuervo Show & Cultural Experience
After tasting, you’ll enjoy a lively Mexican show featuring mariachi music, folkloric ballet, and a toast — an authentic touch that adds flavor to the visit. It’s a lively way to experience Mexican culture and celebrate the spirit.
The Return Journey on the José Cuervo Express
As the day winds down, you’ll board the luxurious train for the return to Guadalajara. The ride offers beautiful sunset views over the agave fields, perfect for photos. The train also features Mexican games like La Lotería, making it an entertaining and relaxing way to end your day.
Planning more time in Tequila? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What About the Price and Value?
At $215 per person, this tour packs in a lot: transportation, a scenic train ride, a guided distillery tour, tequila tasting, and cultural entertainment. When you consider the cost of individual experiences — a train ticket, entrance fees, and entertainment — the price offers good value, especially for those wanting a comprehensive introduction to tequila country without the hassle of planning multiple activities.
That said, some travelers, like Chase from the U.S., felt it’s not a “tasting trip” for multiple tequila shots but rather an educational experience. It’s a good choice if you prefer learning and culture over a tasting marathon.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the distillery and town.
- Bring cash for souvenirs or snacks in Tequila town, as not everything may be available on card.
- Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid last-minute stress.
- Expect the tour to last around 11 hours, so prepare for a full day.
- The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.
- Be aware that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation to and from the meeting point accordingly.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic yet comfortable introduction to tequila and Mexican culture. It suits those who appreciate scenic travel, enjoy guided tours, and want a lively cultural atmosphere with mariachi music and folkloric performances. If you’re curious about how tequila is made and want to see the process firsthand, this tour offers a solid overview. However, if you’re looking for a rigorous tequila tasting with multiple varieties or a more relaxed exploration of Tequila town’s restaurants and shops, you might want to look elsewhere.
More Great Tours NearbyFrequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves a full day of travel and some cultural entertainment, children who enjoy sightseeing and are comfortable with long days will find it suitable. Check specific age restrictions or guidelines with the provider.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended because the tour has limited availability and is popular among visitors. It’s best to secure your spot early.
Is transportation from Guadalajara included?
No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not part of this tour, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.
How long is the train ride?
The journey on the José Cuervo Express is part of the 11-hour total, with the train ride on the return trip providing scenic views and entertainment.
Will I have free time in Tequila town?
Yes, there’s some free time to explore Tequila town, walk around, and grab a bite. Keep in mind that the initial ranch stop may take up a significant portion of your time.
Can I taste different tequilas during the tour?
The tour features an educational tequila tasting of one drink guided by an expert. It’s not focused on sampling multiple tequila varieties.
Are drinks and food available in Tequila town?
Not included in the tour price, so you’ll want to bring cash if you wish to purchase food or additional drinks.
Is this tour bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible for most travelers.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, clothes suitable for the weather, and cash for optional purchases in Tequila town.
What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable, so be sure to confirm your plans before booking.
To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Mexico’s tequila country with scenic travel, expert-guided education, and lively cultural entertainment. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured, engaging experience without the need for extensive tasting or food exploration. If you’re after a comprehensive, fun introduction to Tequila’s traditions and landscape, this trip provides excellent value and memorable moments.
You can check availability for your dates here: