From Guadalajara: Tequila Town and Cantarito Making Tour

From Guadalajara: Tequila Town and Cantarito Making Tour

Starting with a price of $97 per person for an 8-hour guided experience, this tour offers a relaxed yet immersive look into one of Mexico’s most iconic spirits. You’ll visit Tequila and Amatitán, two historic towns renowned for their tequila production, and enjoy a hands-on lesson in mixing your own cantarito, a traditional Mexican cocktail. The tour includes a visit to a traditional distillery where you’ll see how premium tequila is made, plus a tasting that will have you appreciating the nuanced flavors of this national drink.

Two aspects we really appreciate: first, the personalized experience of mixing your own cantarito with a professional barman—something that turns a passive tasting into a memorable hands-on activity. Second, the chance to explore the agave landscape and walk on the slopes of Tequila Volcano adds a scenic and authentic layer to your trip that straight museum visits can’t match.

A potential consideration is the group size and timing—while the detailed itinerary is well-paced, this is a full-day experience and may be a long day for those with limited mobility or tight schedules. It’s best suited for travelers eager to dive into tequila culture, enjoy scenic views, and learn from knowledgeable guides, particularly those who appreciate local craftsmanship and authentic Mexican flavors.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, value-packed day exploring tequila’s roots with plenty of opportunities for photos, tastings, and cultural insights, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially great for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a mix of education, scenic beauty, and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic experience of mixing your own cantarito, a traditional Mexican drink.
• Comprehensive visit to a traditional distillery, witnessing the tequila-making process.
• Beautiful agave landscape views and walk on Tequila Volcano slopes.
• Visits to the historic towns of Tequila and Amatitán, full of local arts and crafts.
• Expert bilingual guides enhance the learning experience and provide local insights.
• Value at $97, including tastings, distillery entry, and activities.

Exploring the Towns of Tequila and Amatitán

The tour kicks off in Guadalajara with a pickup from Calle Aurelio Aceves 225, near the iconic Minerva monument, offering a convenient and central start point. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable Black Van—not a minibus, but a private-sized vehicle, making the journey intimate and manageable.

First up is the chance to admire the agave fields along the Mexico’s legendary Tequila Trail. Here, the landscape isn’t just beautiful; it’s a vital part of Mexico’s cultural identity. You’ll learn how the blue agave is harvested and processed into the beloved spirit. This is where the true essence of tequila begins, and we loved the way guides explained how each step impacts the flavor and quality of the final product.

You’ll then stop at a traditional distillery, which offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind premium tequila. Watching the distillation process, you’ll see traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. This authentic approach, as some reviews highlight, is what differentiates this tour from commercial factory visits. The tasting session afterward lets you savor different types of tequila, often including some higher-quality options that aren’t always available in stores.

The towns of Tequila and Amatitán

In Tequila, you’ll have time to walk through the historic center, where the church and charming cobbled streets serve as a backdrop for photos. The town’s vibrant arts scene and local crafts provide perfect souvenirs, from hand-painted ceramics to jewelry. Many reviews mention the opportunity to shop for unique arts and crafts, which is a bonus for souvenir hunters.

Meanwhile, Amatitán offers a quieter, more traditional vibe, with agricultural roots still very much alive. This is where many of the original tequila factories are located, giving you a feel for the history and importance of tequila production in the region.

Learning to Make Cantarito

One of the tour’s highlights is the hands-on cantarito making session. With a professional barman guiding you, you’ll learn how to mix this refreshing cocktail, which combines tequila with citrus and other fresh ingredients, served in a clay pot. As one reviewer noted, “We prepared Cantaritos, ate delicious food, and visited the most important places.” This activity turns drinking into an enjoyable cultural craft and is perfect for anyone wanting to participate rather than just observe.

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Scenic Views and Volcano Walks

Beyond the towns, the tour offers a chance to walk on the slopes of Tequila Volcano, which provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This experience adds a scenic component that balances the cultural sights with nature. The views are especially striking if you visit during the dry season when the landscape is vivid, and the volcano’s silhouette is prominent against the sky.

The Experience and Value

For $97, this tour packs a lot: transportation, guided insights, distillery visits, tastings, and a fun DIY activity. The bilingual guides are often praised as knowledgeable and friendly, making sure you understand each step of the process and feel comfortable asking questions. Many reviews emphasize how well the guides shared their passion and expertise, which elevates the experience beyond a simple sightseeing trip.

While extra food and drinks are not included, there are plenty of local options in the towns to sample traditional dishes or additional tequila. The tour’s pacing is generally well-structured, allowing sufficient time for photos and shopping, crucial for capturing your memories of this scenic and culturally rich region.

The full-day format means you should be prepared for a long but rewarding experience. The transportation is included, which simplifies logistics and ensures a stress-free day, especially if you’re based in Guadalajara.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who love authentic cultural experiences, especially those interested in spirits, craftsmanship, and scenic landscapes. Food and drink lovers will appreciate the tasting and cantarito activity, while history buffs will enjoy the towns’ stories and the traditional distillery visit. It’s perfect for first-timers to Mexico or seasoned travelers wanting a comprehensive, memorable day without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

If you’re traveling with friends or family interested in a mix of education, fun, and picturesque scenery, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer small groups and guided experiences, ensuring personalized attention and local insights.

The Sum Up

This Tequila Town and Cantarito Making Tour from Guadalajara is a well-rounded, engaging way to experience the essence of Mexico’s favorite beverage and its cultural roots. The inclusion of distillery visits, tasting sessions, and hands-on activities makes it more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an immersive day that brings tequila’s history and craftsmanship to life. The scenery, from agave fields to volcanic slopes, adds a visual feast that complements the tasting and cultural elements.

For those seeking a fun, educational, and authentic experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, shopping for unique crafts, and indulging in delicious food and drinks. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the scenic and cultural richness of Tequila and Amatitán, make it a memorable day out.

However, keep in mind the full-day length and the need for comfortable shoes—these are small considerations compared to the overall value and authenticity offered. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of tequila and beautiful memories of Mexico’s vibrant heartland.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Guadalajara, a bilingual guide, entrance to a distillery, the cantarito making activity, and tequila tastings.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, making for a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and exploring.

Where does the tour start?
You meet your guide at Calle Aurelio Aceves 225, near the Minerva monument in Guadalajara, in a Black Van.

Can I shop during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have opportunities to browse local arts and crafts in Tequila and Amatitán, a good chance to pick up souvenirs.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While generally accessible, the full-day nature and walking involved—especially on slopes or cobbled streets—may not suit everyone.

Are additional food and drinks included?
No, extra food and drinks are not included, but local options are available in the towns.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll walk around the towns and scenic areas.

Is alcohol consumption age-restricted?
Yes, alcoholic drinks are for those 18 and older.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Mexico’s tequila heritage, wrapped in scenic beauty, local culture, and interactive fun—an experience worth savoring.

You can check availability for your dates here: