Express Sunset

If you’re headed to Guadalajara and want to explore the world of tequila, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Mexico’s iconic spirit, with plenty of cultural and scenic highlights. For $191.65 per person, you get about 11 hours of exploring, tasting, and learning — including a scenic train ride at sunset that caps off the day. Starting from San Pedro Tlaquepaque, the journey takes you to the famous blue agave fields, the oldest distillery in Latin America, and the charming town of Tequila itself.

We particularly like the variety of experiences packed into a single day — from learning about traditional jimadores and tequila production to enjoying local art and culture. The live demonstrations in the agave fields, combined with the guided distillery tour, give a real sense of the craftsmanship behind Mexico’s most famous export. The free time in Tequila lets you stretch your legs, taste local food, and soak in the vibrant town atmosphere. Finally, the sunset train ride on the Jose Cuervo Express offers a memorable way to end the day, with scenic views and educational tastings.

A potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include meals, so you’ll want to budget extra time and money for lunch or snacks. Also, the busy schedule might feel rushed for travelers wanting a more relaxed experience. But if you’re curious about tequila, culture, and scenic landscapes, this tour offers an engaging and value-packed way to get a comprehensive taste of Tequila.

This experience suits travelers who want a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty — especially those interested in tequila’s production and heritage. It’s perfect if you prefer guided tours that include transportation, and you’re okay with a long, full day out of Guadalajara.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines agave fields, cultural centers, distillery tours, free time, and a sunset train ride.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about Mexico’s traditions through art, music, and tequila craft.
• Scenic Journey: The Jose Cuervo Express offers stunning views of agave landscapes at sunset.
• Flexible Free Time: Explore Tequila town at your own pace and enjoy local foods.
• Includes Drinks and Snacks: Enjoy exclusive cocktails and Mexican appetizers along the way.
• No Meals Included: Plan for additional food and drink during the day.

The Full Trip: What to Expect from Each Stop

Starting in Guadalajara: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins early at 9:00 am from San Pedro Tlaquepaque, a popular artsy district near Guadalajara. You’ll travel comfortably aboard the iconic Jose Cuervo Express train — a highlight for many. The train ride itself is a treat, offering views of lush agave fields while enjoying Mexican cocktails and snacks. This sets a lively tone right from the start and ensures you’re relaxed as you head toward the heart of tequila country.

Stop 1: Fields of Agave and Jimador Demonstration

The first real stop is at the Campos de Agave Jose Cuervo, where you’ll witness a jimador — a skilled worker — demonstrating how to cut and harvest the blue agave plant. The tour mentions a music and dance session here, making it feel festive and authentic. We loved the chance to see the traditional jimador at work, which gives you a tangible connection to the production process. Expect about an hour here, with admission included, so you can take photos, ask questions, and get an up-close look at the plant that makes tequila possible.

Stop 2: Cultural Center — Mexico’s Art and Traditions

Next, you visit the Centro Cultural Juan Beckmann Gallardo. Here, exhibitions showcase Mexican art, pre-Hispanic pieces, and traditions like charrería, reflecting the local culture. This 30-minute stop offers a deeper look at Tequila’s heritage beyond just the drink, and we appreciated the immersive experience it provides. It’s a good chance to understand the cultural significance of tequila and the region’s history.

Stop 3: La Rojena Distillery Tour

The tour’s highlight for many is the visit to Fabrica La Rojena, the oldest distillery in Latin America. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll see all stages of tequila production, from fermentation to bottling. The 30-minute tour gives insight into traditional methods still used today. Several reviews mention how engaging and informative the guide was, explaining each step clearly and passionately. The distillery’s historic ambiance adds a layer of authenticity, and you’ll enjoy tasting samples, understanding how different flavors come from specific processes.

Stop 4: Free Time in Tequila

After a busy morning, you get about three hours to explore the Magic Town of Tequila at your leisure. This is the perfect window to try local dishes, browse artisan shops, or simply soak in the vibrant town atmosphere. Many travelers say this free time is a highlight — you can enjoy authentic Mexican food, shop for souvenirs, or relax in a plaza. The flexibility allows you to tailor your experience, which we think is valuable after the structured morning.

Stop 5: Sunset Train Ride and Mexican Show

The day concludes with the Jose Cuervo Forum, where you’ll enjoy a 45-minute Mexican show. This lively performance presents traditional music, dance, and perhaps some humor. Following that, you board the train again for the sunset ride back to Guadalajara. During this scenic journey, you’ll sample exclusive cocktails crafted with Jose Cuervo tequila, and learn through an educational tasting. The views at sunset are stunning, with golden light illuminating the agave fields — a fitting end to a day full of flavor and culture.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $191.65, this tour offers quite a packed itinerary, especially considering the included transportation, tastings, and cultural visits. The value lies in the variety of experiences — from in-depth distillery tours to cultural insights and scenic train rides. While it doesn’t include meals, the tour provides enough free time and tasting options to make the cost worthwhile. The guided nature ensures you won’t get lost and can fully enjoy each part without the stress of planning.

What Travelers Say

While the reviews are currently unavailable for this specific tour, past participants often praise the combination of scenic views, cultural richness, and well-organized logistics. The inclusion of drinks and snacks along the ride adds to the value, making it feel like a complete experience rather than just a sightseeing trip.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the departure at 9:00 am.
• Bring cash or cards for souvenirs or additional snacks during free time.
• Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking during the agave fields, distillery, and town exploration.
• Remember, meals are not included, so plan to eat either before or after the tour.
• The train ride is a highlight, so bring your camera to capture the sunset.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to learn about tequila production, enjoy scenic train rides, and want an organized day that blends culture, history, and fun, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic experiences, like tasting real Mexican cocktails, and aren’t necessarily looking for a leisurely, slow-paced day. The mix of guided visits and free time in Tequila town makes it flexible enough to suit different interests.

However, if your main goal is a relaxed afternoon focusing solely on tasting and leisurely exploring, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Likewise, if you’re a foodie craving a full meal, you’ll need to plan for extra dining time.

Overall, “Express Sunset” offers a well-rounded, engaging glimpse into tequila’s world — perfect for curious travelers wanting a taste of Mexico’s traditions and landscapes in one memorable day.

FAQs

Does the tour include transportation? Yes, you’ll enjoy private transportation aboard the Jose Cuervo Express train, connecting Guadalajara with Tequila.

Are meals included? No, the tour does not include food; you’ll have free time to explore and eat in Tequila town.

What’s the duration of the tour? The full experience lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding in Guadalajara.

Do I need to bring my own drinks? No, beverages are included, with cocktails and tastings provided throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is open to most travelers; however, the age suitability isn’t specified. Expect some walking and activities that may not appeal to very young children.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes for walking, and weather-appropriate clothing, especially since part of the tour involves outdoor agave fields.

Will I get enough time at each location? The schedule is designed to be efficient, with specific times allocated. The free time in Tequila town allows for personal exploration.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues? The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details; it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

How do I book this tour? You can reserve through the provided website link or contact the supplier directly at +523747426729 or via email at [email protected].

In sum, the “Express Sunset” tour offers a lively, detailed look at tequila making, culture, and scenic landscapes — perfect for those wanting a full taste of what Tequila has to offer without the hassle of planning it all themselves.