Tequila Day Trip from Guadalajara with Jose Cuervo Express Train

Tequila Day Trip from Guadalajara with Jose Cuervo Express Train: A Complete Guide

When visiting Guadalajara, a day trip to Tequila is almost obligatory — and this tour makes it both easy and enjoyable. For around $275 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 hours exploring Mexico’s most iconic spirit, traveling comfortably in the Jose Cuervo Express Premium Wagon, and enjoying the local culture. Guided by passionate hosts, you’ll visit agave fields, tour distilleries, enjoy tastings, and end with a lively Mexican folklore show.

What we love about this experience is how it combines beautiful scenery with authentic tastings and lively entertainment, all wrapped in a well-organized schedule. The train ride itself, with its panoramic windows and onboard snacks, feels like a highlight on par with the stops. Plus, the opportunity to visit a historic distillery—Fabrica La Rojena—and participate in traditional agave harvesting demonstrations adds a layer of genuine insight.

One possible caveat is that the tour can be a long day, starting early and ending late, which might not suit those with limited stamina or tight schedules. Also, some reviews mention inconsistencies in service or experiences during busy times, so it’s wise to keep expectations realistic. However, if you’re a tequila enthusiast or curious about Mexican culture, this tour offers a solid mix of education, entertainment, and scenery, making it ideal for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

This trip works best for those who enjoy guided experiences, culture, and scenic train rides. It’s particularly suited for travelers keen on learning about tequila production and sampling a variety of tequilas in a lively, friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: Round-trip travel in the Jose Cuervo Express Premium Wagon with onboard snacks and drinks.
• Authentic Experiences: Agave harvest demos, distillery tours, and guided tastings with expert tasters.
• Cultural Highlights: Mariachi music, folkloric shows, and a chance to explore the town of Tequila.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, tastings, and entertainment, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Flexible Schedule: Options for full-day itineraries with free time for lunch and sightseeing.
• Potential Drawbacks: Long hours, possible variability in service, and some reviews note watered-down drinks or less-than-expected tastings.

A Deep Dive into the Tequila Day Trip Experience

Starting the Day: Smooth Transportation and Scenic Views

Your adventure kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel in Guadalajara. The air-conditioned coach whisks you away toward the agave fields, giving you your first taste of the Mexican landscape. These fields spread out like a sea of blue-green leaves, a sight that’s both calming and iconic. The tour’s first highlight is a demonstration of traditional agave jima, where you’ll see how the piñas are harvested — a critical step in tequila production.

This part of the journey is more than just scenery; it’s a chance to connect with the land that fuels Mexico’s most famous drink. Several reviewers mention that the guide, such as Diego or Mari Cruz, brings this process to life with enthusiasm and knowledge, making the farm visit feel authentic and engaging rather than just a photo stop.

Visiting Fabrica La Rojena: The Heart of Tequila Making

Next, you’ll board the Jose Cuervo Express Premium Wagon for a scenic 5-hour ride to Tequila. The onboard experience is surprisingly lively — Mexican snacks, cocktails made with Jose Cuervo® Tradicional® and Especial®, and a fun lottery game (Mexican bingo) keep spirits high. Many travelers highlight that the train ride itself is a highlight, offering panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Once at Fabrica La Rojena, the oldest distillery in the area, you’ll get a thorough tour of Mundo Cuervo®. Here, you’ll learn about tequila’s history, production processes, and the different types of tequila. The guide’s expertise shines, with many reviews praising guides like Lupita for their friendliness and deep knowledge.

It’s worth noting that some reviews mention the quality of drinks on the train can vary, with some feeling the cocktails were watered down or the tastings not as comprehensive as expected. Still, the guided tasting, complemented by a mariachi performance and a traditional toast, adds a festive touch to the educational experience.

The Charm of Tequila Town: Free Time and Cultural Exploration

After the distillery tour, you’ll have an hour to explore Tequila itself — a charming town filled with colorful shops, museums, and historic sites. Most visitors use this time to stroll through the Centro Cultural Juan Beckmann Gallardo Museum or grab a quick bite. We recommend trying some local snacks or browsing for souvenirs.

A popular highlight is the optional lunch, which you’ll need to pay for separately. Several reviews mention that the local food is delicious and adds value to the trip, but you’ll want to plan your own budget for this part.

The Return: Riding the Train and Relaxing

Boarding the Jose Cuervo Express for the return trip is equally enjoyable. Many reviews rave about the breathtaking sunset views from the train, with warm colors lighting up the landscape. The onboard experience continues with more cocktails, Mexican snacks, and a folkloric show, which many find a fun and lively end to the day.

Once back in Guadalajara, a bus takes you from the train station to your hotel, wrapping up a well-paced, full day of activity.

Authenticity and Value: What Travelers Say

Feedback from travelers paints a generally positive picture. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, with comments like “the train ride was the cherry on top” and “the agave farm demo was very authentic.” The delicious food and drinks onboard are noted as a highlight, especially the tastings of premium tequilas.

However, some reviews hint at inconsistencies, such as watered-down drinks or less-than-stellar service at busy times. One reviewer pointed out that the tequila tasting didn’t include the special reserve they expected, which might leave tequilaphiles wanting more. It’s also worth noting that the tour is a long day, starting early and ending late, so patience is key.

Why it’s a Good Deal

The experience’s price includes train travel, distillery tours, tastings, snacks, and entertainment, all curated in a fun, lively atmosphere. For travelers who appreciate guided visits and cultural shows, it offers excellent value compared to piecemeal visits or self-guided trips. It’s a well-rounded introduction to tequila and its birthplace, especially for first-timers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a tequila lover, curious about Mexico’s spirit, or looking for a convenient, all-in-one day trip, this tour ticks all those boxes. It also suits travelers who enjoy scenic train rides and lively entertainment. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or a more in-depth tasting experience, you might want to explore other options or add your own stops.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking at the agave farm and town.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera — the outside scenery is gorgeous.
• Keep in mind that the tour starts at 9:00 am, so plan your night accordingly.
• Confirm your pickup time with the provided contact details the day before.
• Remember, the minimum legal drinking age in Mexico is 18.
• Lunch isn’t included, so budget extra if you plan to eat in Tequila town.
• The tour is popular, with over 69 reviews averaging 4.4/5, so booking early is advised.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from designated hotels in Guadalajara’s center and Tlaquepaque. Confirm your pickup time with the contact number provided in your voucher.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation by bus and train, guided tastings, visits to agave fields and distillery, cultural shows, and some Mexican snacks and cocktails onboard.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included but you have free time in Tequila town to find your own meal. Several reviews recommend trying local food for a true taste of the region.

How long is the train ride?
The total experience includes a scenic train ride in the Jose Cuervo Express Premium Wagon, with many travelers commenting that the ride itself is a highlight.

Are drinks served onboard?
Yes, you’ll enjoy cocktails made with various José Cuervo tequilas. However, some reviews mention that the drinks can be watered down, so manage expectations accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The tour is aimed at adults, especially because of the tequila tastings; however, children could enjoy the scenery and town visits, but they won’t partake in tastings.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for optional lunch or souvenirs. Also, call ahead to get your boarding pass and confirm your pickup.

Final Thoughts

A full-day trip to Tequila from Guadalajara in the Jose Cuervo Express is a lively, scenic, and authentic way to learn about Mexico’s most famous spirit. With guided tours, tastings, and a train ride through beautiful agave fields, it offers a comprehensive experience for those eager to understand and enjoy tequila.

While some may find the long hours or variable drink quality a bit challenging, many travelers agree that the expert guides, stunning views, and cultural entertainment create lasting memories. This tour is especially well-suited for tequila enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or anyone looking for a hassle-free way to explore Tequila’s charming town and its spirit-making traditions.

If you enjoy guided experiences with a mix of education and entertainment, this trip delivers value and fun in spades. Just remember to pace yourself and soak in the sights and sounds — and perhaps a few tequila samples — along the way.