Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas

Engaging Overview of the Mexican Cooking, Tequila Tasting & Margaritas Tour

If you’re looking for a taste of true Mexican culture beyond the usual tourist spots, this Mexican Cooking Class with Tequila Tasting offers a wonderful escape into local flavors. For around five hours, you’ll travel to a scenic mountain resort called La Dulce Vista, where you’ll learn to prepare classic dishes like salsa de molcajete, guacamole, enchiladas, and tostadas. The trip costs about $89.22 per person, includes a delicious lunch, and boasts a high rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on over 110 reviews — it’s clearly a favorite among travelers.

We particularly love the opportunity to make your own tortillas from scratch and the chance to taste small-batch, organic mezcal and tequila that are unique to this location. These authentic experiences make this tour stand out from more generic cooking classes. However, keep in mind that the drive up the mountains can be bumpy and winding, which might be a concern if you’re prone to car sickness or prefer smoother rides.

This tour is ideal for food lovers eager to master traditional Mexican recipes and adventurers excited to explore the Sierra Madre scenery. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences with knowledgeable guides, as many reviews praise the personable instructors and scenic setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Cooking Experience: Learn to prepare traditional Mexican dishes with fresh ingredients, including tortillas you make yourself.
• Organic Tequila & Mezcal: Taste small-batch, organic spirits, including a variety of tequilas and artisanal mezcal, with insightful commentary.
• Beautiful Mountain Setting: Enjoy the lush scenery of La Dulce Vista, a resort perched in the Sierra Madre, with opportunities to swim and relax afterward.
• Friendly Guides & Small Groups: With a maximum of 15 travelers, the guides are personable, knowledgeable, and make the experience engaging.
• Value for Money: For around $89, you get a full meal, drinks, scenic transportation, and memorable cultural insights.
• Considerations: The journey involves a scenic but sometimes bumpy ride—be prepared for winding roads and bring a swimsuit if you’d like to swim after.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Departure and Transportation

The tour starts at Av Paseo de la Marina 121 in Marina Vallarta, with pickup at 10:30 am. The transport is an air-conditioned, open-concept bus—which means plenty of fresh air and views, but no A/C. The drive to La Dulce Vista takes approximately 30 minutes, ascending into the Sierra Madre mountains. Several reviews mention the journey as “bumpy” or “scenic,” with one calling it the “Mexican roller coaster.” This highlights an important consideration: if you’re sensitive to twists and turns, pack some motion sickness remedies.

Scenic Destination: La Dulce Vista

Once you arrive, you’re greeted by spectacular jungle and river scenery—it’s a peaceful oasis away from the busy city. The resort offers green areas, hammocks, a pool, and jacuzzis, perfect for unwinding after the cooking class. Many guests praise the beautiful setting as a true highlight, describing it as a “hidden gem” with an authentic vibe. Be sure to bring your swimsuit!

The Cooking Class

Your hosts, Cesar and Valeria, guide you through preparing Mexican favorites: salsa de molcajete, guacamole, and enchiladas, with vegetarian options available. The emphasis is on using fresh ingredients and learning techniques, rather than just following a recipe.

As one reviewer notes, “Valeria was fun and charming,” sharing useful cooking tips and making the class approachable, even for beginners. You’ll get to fry tortillas, assemble tostadas, and season your dishes—all under the watchful eye of your instructor. The experience is described as interactive and relaxed, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to learn authentic recipes.

Tasting Organic Tequila & Mezcal

Following the cooking, you’ll enjoy a tasting of small-batch, organic spirits. This includes your own brand of blanco, reposado, añejo, pink, and extra-aged tequilas, along with mezcal, the “cousin” of tequila. The hosts provide insightful commentary, explaining the production process and flavor profiles. Many guests rave about the quality and variety of the spirits, noting that the tastings are informative and enjoyable.

“The tequila tasting was super informative and fun,” one reviewer shares. The tasting is open to guests 18 and over, and the free-flowing margaritas are an added bonus—perfect for relaxing and soaking up the scenery.

Post-Activity Relaxation

After the culinary and tasting activities, guests are encouraged to enjoy the pool, jacuzzis, or hammocks. Several reviews mention spending time dipping in the pool and lounging in the lush green surroundings, which adds a leisurely, vacation vibe to the day.

Practical Details and Considerations

The Cost and Value

Considering the cost of about $89 per person, this tour offers a full afternoon of fun, learning, and tasting. Included are lunch, bottled water, the tequila and mezcal tastings, and the scenic transportation. For travelers interested in authentic Mexican cuisine and spirits, this is a solid value, especially when compared to individual restaurant or tasting experiences.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the group size keeps things intimate and friendly. Many reviews mention the personalized attention from guides and the good rapport among participants. It’s ideal if you enjoy small-group settings where you can ask questions and connect with others.

What to Bring

Remember to bring your swimsuit if you plan to swim afterward. Also, consider wearing comfortable shoes suitable for walking and a hat or sunscreen for the outdoor parts.

Caveats

The drive up the mountain can be challenging if you’re prone to car sickness or dislike winding roads. Some reviews mention the ride as “sketchy” or “harrowing,” but all agree the destination and experience are worth it. The cooking itself is straightforward and mostly involves chopping and assembling, so don’t expect to learn complex techniques—it’s about flavor, fun, and authenticity.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a food enthusiast eager to learn how to make authentic Mexican dishes, this tour offers hands-on experience with fresh ingredients and a friendly atmosphere. The scenic mountain setting enhances the authentic feel, making it more than just a cooking class. The tequila and mezcal tasting adds an extra layer of enjoyment for those interested in Mexico’s spirits scene.

For travelers who appreciate guided experiences with local flair, where the guides are described as knowledgeable and personable, this trip delivers a true taste of the region. It’s especially suitable for adventurous spirits comfortable with a slightly bumpy ride and those wanting to relax afterward in beautiful surroundings.

However, if you prefer a very smooth journey or more intensive cooking sessions, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you aren’t interested in alcohol or have dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that the experience is primarily centered around meat and traditional Mexican cuisine.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarians can request a vegetarian version of the dishes, including enchiladas and tostadas.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers lunch, bottled water, tequila and mezcal tastings (for 18+), and transportation to and from the mountain resort.

How long is the drive to the destination?
The scenic drive lasts approximately 30 minutes, with some reviews describing it as bumpy or winding.

Can I swim after the tour?
Yes, the resort offers a pool, jacuzzis, and hammocks, so bring your swimsuit if you want to relax after cooking and tasting.

How many people are on this tour?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is prior cooking experience necessary?
Not at all. The class is designed for beginners and is focused on fun, learning, and enjoying the process.

Are the spirits high-proof?
The spirits are small-batch, organic, and offered in various styles, but not overly strong—yet you can request extra tequila in the margaritas.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activity. Don’t forget your swimsuit if swimming is on your list.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, as long as guests are over 18 for the spirit tastings. The cooking class itself is suitable for a range of ages.

This tour offers an appealing blend of culinary learning, scenic beauty, and spirited tasting, making it an engaging way to connect with Mexico’s authentic flavors. Whether you’re a foodie eager to master recipes or a curious traveler wanting a memorable day outdoors, this experience provides genuine value and a chance to enjoy the best of Puerto Vallarta’s culinary and natural charms.