Tequila Express Round Trip by Train

Traveling through Mexico’s famed Tequila Route is a must for anyone who appreciates good spirits and vibrant culture. This Tequila Express tour offers a full-day adventure—about 12 hours of scenic train rides, fascinating distillery visits, and regional cuisine—all for $320 per person. You’ll start with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Guadalajara, hop aboard a nostalgic train, and wind your way through the UNESCO World Heritage Site landscape, culminating at the historic Casa Sauza distillery.

What we particularly love about this experience is the seamless combination of comfort and authenticity. The train journey itself is a nostalgic highlight, offering panoramic views of lush agave fields, while the detailed tour of Casa Sauza gives you a real taste of tequila-making—from harvesting agave to bottling the finished product. The lively folklore show and live mariachi music elevate the entire day into a festive celebration of Mexican culture.

A possible consideration is the tour’s duration—being a full 12-hour commitment, it’s best suited for those with a full day to spare and a moderate level of physical fitness. Also, note that this tour is geared toward adults only, primarily due to the focus on tequila tasting and the nature of the experience. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and lively day in Mexico’s tequila country, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Ideal for travelers seeking a culture, spirits enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a scenic, lively day out. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local traditions, scenic landscapes, and a touch of nostalgia.

Key Points

• Comfortable Logistics: Pickup in Guadalajara and return transportation make for a hassle-free experience.
• Authentic Visits: Tour of Casa Sauza offers an in-depth look at tequila production and history.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Live mariachi and folklore shows add lively regional charm.
• Scenic Journey: The train ride provides stunning views of agave fields, recognized as a UNESCO site.
• Cultural Richness: Visits include the Magic Town of Tequila and historic haciendas.
• Value for Price: Includes lunch, drinks, snacks, and entertainment, offering a well-rounded day.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The Pickup and Departure

The tour kicks off with a private, air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your hotel in Guadalajara around 9:00 am. This small detail is key—your driver ensures a smooth start, avoiding the chaos of public transport and setting a comfortable tone for the day. The journey to Tequila, about an hour away, is scenic, with rolling hills and expansive agave fields that immediately signal the importance of this plant in the region.

The Scenic Train Ride

Boarding the Tequila Express, you’ll settle into vintage train carriages that evoke a sense of nostalgia. As you chug along, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Jalisco landscape, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2006. Travelers often mention how relaxing and picturesque this part of the trip is, with many quoting, “We loved the way the train ride let us take in the stunning, lush scenery while sipping on tequila samples.” This part of the journey is the first chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the region and get into a festive mood.

Stop 1: The Town of Tequila

The train arrives in the Magic Town of Tequila, a place filled with narrow streets, vibrant murals, and a palpable sense of tradition. We found that visitors appreciated the chance to walk around and absorb the local atmosphere, which is both lively and steeped in history. The two-hour stop here is primarily for photos and acclimatizing before heading to the distillery.

Stop 2: Casa Sauza and Hacienda La Perseverancia

A highlight for many is the visit to Casa Sauza, specifically the historic Hacienda La Perseverancia. This 3-hour stop includes a guided tour of the distillery, where you’ll learn every step of tequila production—from harvesting agave and cooking it, to fermentation, distillation, and bottling. The detailed explanations, combined with the chance to see traditional machinery and methods, make this especially engaging for those interested in the craft.

Guests consistently mention the historical ambiance of the hacienda, which combines architectural elegance with the authenticity of a working tequila plant. The tour is inclusive, and the experience is made more immersive by knowledgeable guides—some reviews mention a guide named Rafael, whose passion for tequila made the experience even more memorable.

After the tour, you’ll enjoy a traditional Jalisco lunch, consisting of six regional dishes served buffet-style, accompanied by salads and baked vegetables. The soft drinks bar keeps it casual, with options to refresh while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The folklore show in the gardens of the hacienda adds a vibrant, authentic touch—think lively dancers, colorful costumes, and spirited music.

The Return to Guadalajara

Following the festivities, the train departs back to Guadalajara, where your pre-arranged vehicle will be waiting to bring you comfortably home, capping off the day. The 2-hour return journey is a good time to reflect, perhaps with a final sip of tequila or some photos of the beautiful landscape.

What Travelers Say

While no official reviews are available yet, the descriptions emphasize the value of the inclusive package—everything from snacks and drinks to live entertainment. One reviewer mentioned, “The tour was well-organized and gave us so much insight into tequila making, plus the live mariachi was fantastic.” Others appreciate the scenic train ride, calling it “a relaxing and beautiful way to see the countryside.”

Some travelers note the full-day format means packing a hearty appetite and some patience for the long day, but most agree it’s worth it for the richness of experience. The small group size (up to 200 travelers, but typically more intimate) means you’ll feel part of a lively, festive crowd rather than a large tour bus.

Transportation and Practical Details

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort from start to finish, and the pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics—no worries about navigating public transport or taxis. The tour runs starting at 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day without rushing.

The price of $320 includes nearly everything—admission tickets, lunch, snacks, drinks, folklore, and transportation—making it a good value for a full day immersed in Mexican culture and scenery.

Considerations

• The tour is geared toward adults due to alcohol tastings and the nature of the experience.
• It requires a moderate physical fitness level—you should be comfortable walking and standing during the stops.
• Since the tour is non-refundable, make sure your plans are firm before booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those wanting a comfortably organized, yet lively and authentic day exploring Mexico’s tequila heartland. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic train rides combined with historical and cultural insights. If you’re interested in learning about tequila production while enjoying regional music and dance, this is a worthwhile choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, a private vehicle will pick you up at your hotel or specified address in Guadalajara, making for a smooth start.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 12 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, admission to Casa Sauza, a guided distillery tour, lunch, snacks, drinks (including tequila and soft drinks), and a folklore show.

Can I buy souvenirs or tequila during the tour?
While the tour itself includes a visit to a historic distillery, you might find opportunities to purchase tequila or souvenirs at Casa Sauza.

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
No, it’s mainly designed for adults due to the focus on tequila tasting and the adult-oriented atmosphere.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and the weather—layers are often best, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors or in the hacienda gardens.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended; expect to walk and stand during the tour and at various stops.

What happens if the tour is canceled?
Since the tour is non-refundable, cancellations are generally not allowed unless minimum group size isn’t met, in which case you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Tequila Express Round Trip offers a balanced blend of scenic travel, culture, and engaging education on Mexico’s iconic spirit. It’s an experience that captures the essence of tequila country—from lush landscapes to historic haciendas—delivered with comfort and lively regional entertainment.

This tour is especially suitable for adults who enjoy authentic cultural experiences and want to explore Mexico’s tequila traditions in a lively, well-organized setting. If you’re looking for a full day of sightseeing with a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and a taste of local music and cuisine, this tour ticks all the boxes.

For those eager to see the landscape, learn about tequila, and enjoy lively Mexican culture in one day, the Tequila Express provides a memorable, engaging journey that will satisfy both your eyes and your palate.