Ensenada Shore Excursion: Entre Santos and El Cielo Winery Tours with Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to make your port time in Ensenada truly memorable, this wine and food tour might catch your eye. Offered by Top Private Tours, this 6-hour experience takes you into the heart of Baja California’s celebrated wine region, Valle de Guadalupe. It’s designed for those who want a personalized touch, with private transportation, two winery visits, seven tastings, and a sit-down meal—all wrapped into a single day.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines wine education with gourmet food—so you’re not just drinking, but learning about wine from the grapes to the glass. Plus, the private setting means you can ask questions and enjoy the experience at your own pace. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention organizing issues or variable guide quality, so it’s not a perfectly smooth ride for everyone. Still, if you’re a wine lover or foodie wanting an authentic Baja experience, this tour could be a good fit.

It’s best suited for travelers who value intimate, guided visits to historic wineries and are happy to spend a day sampling local wines paired with regional cuisine. If you want a relaxed, educational outing that offers great value for a moderate price, this tour might be a smart choice. But if you prefer a more flexible or adventurous itinerary, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private tour that focuses on your group’s pace and interests
• Seven wine tastings across two historic wineries, including Santo Tomas, the oldest in Baja California
• Gourmet lunch at a winery restaurant, blending Baja flavors with classic steakhouse fare
• Round-trip transportation from the cruise port, easing logistical worries
• Educational winery tours, giving insight into the local wine-making process
• Variable reviews highlight the importance of choosing knowledgeable guides and clear communication

Why Choose This Tour?

When your cruise docks in Ensenada, you want to make the most of your limited time ashore. This tour hits the highlights of Baja’s renowned Valle de Guadalupe, a region celebrated for its innovative wines and fresh regional cuisine. For those who enjoy tasting and learning, it’s a solid choice: you’ll visit two different wineries, each offering a taste of the local terroir and history, and finish with a gourmet meal at one of the wineries’ restaurants.

The private nature of the tour ensures personalized attention, which is a big plus if you dislike large groups or want to tailor your experience. Plus, with pickup and drop-off included, it removes the stress of figuring out how to get around on your own.

The tour’s timing flexibility is another perk—your driver will coordinate based on your cruise schedule, so you don’t have to worry about missing your ship. It’s especially helpful for first-time visitors wanting a curated, hassle-free experience.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The adventure begins with pickup at the Ensenada cruise port, where your driver greets you and confirms your schedule. From there, you head inland toward Valle de Guadalupe, about a 45-minute drive into the region’s rolling hills and vineyards.

First Stop: Santo Tomas Winery

As the oldest winery in Baja California, Santo Tomas holds a special place in local wine history. This stop isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the roots of Baja wine. You’ll tour the facilities, see old and new equipment side by side, and hear stories about the winery’s evolution over the years.

According to reviews, the wine tastings at Santo Tomas are a highlight, with good wine selections and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer noted that their guide, Frieda, kept the group entertained and engaged, making the experience more enjoyable.

Second Stop: El Cielo Winery

After Santo Tomas, you’ll visit El Cielo, a newer winery known for its innovative approach and scenic setting. Here, you’ll walk around barrels and cavas, soaking in the views and the aroma of fermenting grapes. You’ll sample a total of seven wines across the two locations, which is a pretty generous tasting for a half-day outing.

Lunch at a Winery Restaurant

Post-tastings, it’s time for a seasonal meal at a winery restaurant. The menu is a blend of Baja flavors and steakhouse classics, designed to complement the wines you’ve just tasted. Reviewers have raved about the quality of the lunch, with some customizing their order, such as requesting cheese or charcuterie trays.

Return to Ensenada

Following lunch, your driver will return you to the cruise port, typically within the allocated time. The drive back offers a chance to relax, reflect on the day, and enjoy the scenery.

The Real Deal: What Past Travelers Say

Some reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying that Frieda kept the group entertained and took good photos, adding a personal touch. Others appreciated the beautiful winery locations and the good wine quality, affirming that the wineries are worth the trip.

However, some reviews point to communication issues or disorganization, especially regarding scheduling or guidance. One traveler felt the tour did not fully meet expectations because of poor communication with the operator, so it’s worth confirming details in advance.

The value for money seems fair, considering the private tour, tastings, lunch, and transport, especially if you’re interested in exploring Baja’s wine scene in an intimate setting.

Practical Details & Considerations

• The tour costs $166 per person, which includes pickup/drop-off, wine tastings, and lunch. While not cheap, it covers a lot of ground and offers a personalized experience.
• You’ll spend about 4 hours in Valle de Guadalupe with two winery visits and lunch, so plan your cruise timing accordingly.
• The tour is booked 91 days in advance on average, indicating steady interest.
• Pickup times are flexible based on your cruise schedule—you’ll receive contact info after booking to coordinate.
• Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy wine, good food, and scenic drives.
• Cancellation is possible up to 3 days before the tour, allowing some flexibility if your plans change.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Ensenada wine tour offers a balanced mix of education, scenery, and culinary delights. It’s best for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Baja wines and food lovers who want a taste of local flavors without the hassle of planning logistics. The private setting makes it particularly appealing for couples, small groups, or anyone who prefers a more personalized experience.

If you want to see historic wineries, taste quality wines, and enjoy a sit-down gourmet meal, this tour hits those marks well. Just be prepared for some variability in guide quality and communication, which can influence the experience. Overall, it’s a great way to make your Ensenada port day special—if you enjoy good wine and good company, this tour could be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including travel, tastings, and lunch.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transport from the Ensenada cruise port is included, making logistics simple.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit two wineries: Santo Tomas and El Cielo, with a total of seven tastings.

What is included in the lunch?
A seasonal meal at a winery restaurant, blending Baja flavors with classic steakhouse fare, is part of the package.

Can I customize the tour?
While the tour is private, specific requests like cheese or charcuterie are possible, as noted by some travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The experience centers on wine tasting, but non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery, lunch, and winery tours. It’s best for those comfortable with wine.

What happens if my cruise schedule changes?
The pickup time is flexible, and you’ll coordinate directly with the operator after booking, so they can adjust to your timing.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 3 days before the tour for a full refund, giving some peace of mind if your plans change.

This Ensenada winery tour combines the pleasures of tasting local wines with the joy of discovering Baja’s scenic vineyards. It’s a well-rounded experience for those who appreciate good food, history, and a touch of luxury—all in a manageable half-day outing.