Tequila and Cantaritos Tour from Guadalajara

Travelers looking to connect with Mexico’s most iconic spirit will find this full-day tour from Guadalajara a fun and insightful way to experience the heart of Jalisco. For $95 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring tequila factories, the picturesque town of Tequila, the famous giant swing, sprawling agave fields, and a lively stop at Cantaritos el Güero. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable hosts, this tour offers a blend of culture, scenery, and a taste of local celebration.

What we love most is the chance to see how tequila is made from start to finish — watching the agave fields stretch out like a sea of blue-green and stepping inside a famed distillery to learn the process firsthand. Plus, the post-tour stop at Cantaritos el Güero delivers authentic Mexican vibes — live music, big drinks, and a festive atmosphere.

The one consideration? The schedule can be a bit tight, especially if the group is large or if you’re hoping for a more relaxed pace. Also, if you’re not a big fan of crowds or quick visits, this might feel rushed. That said, it’s ideal for travelers eager to see the highlights and meet other tequila enthusiasts. This tour suits those who enjoy lively atmospheres, cultural insights, and a full immersion into Jalisco’s tequila culture.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn about tequila production directly from a renowned factory and walk through agave fields.
• Cultural Vibe: Explore the colorful town of Tequila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its shops and local charm.
• Fun Stops: The giant swing offers a playful photo op and a chance to get your adrenaline going.
• Lively Atmosphere: End the day at Cantaritos el Güero, where music, dancing, and large, citrus-infused tequila drinks create a festive mood.
• Guided Insights: The tour guides share stories and facts that deepen your understanding of tequila’s role in Mexican culture.
• Value: With tickets including transportation, tastings, and site entry, it offers solid value for a full day of activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tequila and Cantaritos Tour

Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure kicks off in Guadalajara, with most tours gathering at Av. Chapultepec Sur 560. From there, a comfortable van whisks you away through the scenic landscape of Jalisco. The drive takes about 50 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy views of rolling hills and sprawling agave fields, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Having private transportation means you skip the hassle of renting a car or navigating public transit. It also fosters a sense of camaraderie, as you meet fellow travelers right from the start. One review mentions the importance of arriving on time because the schedule is tight, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re a punctual type.

Visit to Fábrica La Rojeña
The highlight for many is the visit to Fábrica La Rojeña — the legendary Jose Cuervo distillery. This is a one-hour tour that demystifies the tequila-making process. You’ll see the agave hearts being cooked, learn about fermentation, distillation, and aging, and observe the factory’s historic equipment. It’s a professional operation, and most visitors find the tour informative and engaging.

A big plus here is the tasting session, where you’ll sample different types of tequila: blanco, reposado, and añejo. This is a good chance to refine your palate, pick up on subtle flavors, and understand why tequila varies so much. One reviewer noted, “Very informative and our guide did a wonderful job,” which hints at the quality of the experience.

However, some travelers note that if you don’t request a specific visit, you might be taken to a roadside distillery with a less professional vibe. Therefore, if visiting La Rojeña is a priority, communicate that clearly when booking.

Exploring Tequila Town
After the distillery visit, there’s a 20-minute photo stop in the town of Tequila. This village is vibrant and colorful, with cobblestone streets, local shops, and plenty of photo opportunities. You’ll get a taste of local life, maybe pick up some souvenirs, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The tour then allows about two hours for exploring Tequila itself. While some visitors might feel this is enough to soak in the town’s charm, others suggest that more time to wander at leisure could be ideal. Keep in mind that the schedule is structured, and quick visits are the norm.

The Giant Swing and Agave Fields
One of the most photographed spots is the giant swing, a fun and slightly daring photo opportunity among the agave plants. Standing among the towering blue-green leaves while snapping pictures is a highlight for many, especially since the landscape itself is stunning. The agave fields, stretching for miles, provide a perfect backdrop to understand the scale of tequila production and enjoy some tranquil natural beauty.

Cantaritos el Güero
The final stop is at Cantaritos el Güero, a local favorite known for serving giant drinks called cantaritos — cocktails made with tequila, citrus juices, and soda, traditionally served in clay mugs. Here, the lively music, dancing, and festive environment create a perfect setting to relax and celebrate.

This part of the tour lasts about 1.5 hours and gets high marks from guests who enjoy lively atmospheres. One review notes, “Saymi was a super nice person, she treated us impeccably, great service,” highlighting the friendly vibe of the stop.

The Return Journey
After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll be transported back to Guadalajara. Expect to arrive around late afternoon or early evening, tired but full of stories, photos, and perhaps a few extra tequila samples.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

The ticket price of $95 covers private transportation, all entrance tickets, tequila tastings, and a knowledgeable guide. This makes it a good value considering the number of stops and activities packed into one day.

However, food is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal in Tequila town. Also, hotel pick-up isn’t offered, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point, which is straightforward if you’re staying nearby.

Authenticity, Value, and Who It’s For

This tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive and fun introduction to tequila and its cultural context. You’ll meet other travelers, enjoy engaging guides, and see iconic sights. For people who appreciate nature, history, and lively local scenes, the tour hits all the right notes.

It’s particularly valuable for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the highlights — from the distillery to the town, agave fields, and festive cantina. For seasoned tequila aficionados, the tour offers a good overview, though they might prefer more in-depth tastings or less rushed visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from Guadalajara and back, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics.

Can I request specific visits or stops?
You can request to visit La Rojeña distillery specifically; otherwise, the tour may include a roadside distillery, which some find less professional. Confirm your preferences when booking.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID for drinking, comfortable clothes suited for walking and taking photos, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for the agave fields.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to have lunch in Tequila town or bring snacks for the day.

Is this tour suitable for kids or minors?
Minors are not allowed to participate due to alcohol restrictions, so this experience is best for travelers of legal drinking age.

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Final Thoughts

This Tequila and Cantaritos Tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into Mexico’s beloved spirit with a balanced mix of factory visits, scenic views, and festive ambiance. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the core highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves, and for those eager to connect with local culture in a fun setting.

While the schedule can feel a bit tight, the experience of walking among agave fields, learning from a professional distillery, and ending with the energetic vibe at Cantaritos el Güero makes it a worthwhile choice. Just be prepared for a lively day, some quick visits, and a lot of memorable moments.

If your goal is to understand tequila’s role in Mexican life, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and meet fellow travelers, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a great way to turn a day in Jalisco into a lively, flavorful adventure.

Remember: Always confirm your specific interests and expectations with the tour provider, and arrive on time for the full experience. Cheers to discovering some of Mexico’s most iconic flavors and scenery!

You can check availability for your dates here: