From Guadalajara: La Rojeña Distillery & Jose Cuervo Train

Traveling through the heart of Mexico’s tequila country is a must for spirits enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. This tour offers a full-day adventure that combines scenic vistas, expert-guided tastings, and lively performances. Whether you’re a tequila novice or a seasoned connoisseur, this experience promises a deeper appreciation of Mexico’s most famous export.

We particularly like the luxurious Jose Cuervo Express train ride—it’s not just transportation but part of the fun, with beautiful views and onboard games. The visit to La Rojeña Distillery, the oldest in Latin America, offers genuine insight into tequila production. However, some travelers might find the schedule a bit rushed, especially if they want more time to explore Tequila town itself. This tour suits those looking for a mix of education, scenery, and lively Mexican culture, especially if you enjoy a well-organized, guided experience.

Key Points

• Scenic journey in style: Travel comfortably on the Jose Cuervo Express with panoramic views of agave fields.
• Expert-led tastings: Learn about tequila with guided tastings that elevate your appreciation of this iconic spirit.
• Authentic distillery visit: Discover how La Rojeña Distillery has been making tequila for centuries.
• Cultural entertainment: Enjoy a Mexican show with mariachi music, folkloric ballet, and traditional toasts.
• Flexible free time: Have a chance to walk around and eat in Tequila town, but be aware of limited free time.
• Educational and fun: The tour balances history, production insights, and lively cultural elements for a well-rounded experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins

Starting in Guadalajara, the tour’s pacing is designed to set the tone for a day full of sights and sounds. The bus ride through agave fields is a highlight in itself—these vast, blue-tinted landscapes are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s as photogenic as it is fascinating. Expect to stop briefly for a jimador demonstration, where an expert harvests agave—a detail that truly connects you to the origins of tequila.

The Agave and Tequila Heritage

The ride offers more than just scenery. We loved the way the guide explained the maguey (agave plant), making complex production aspects accessible. Several reviews mention the value of the guided explanations, with one traveler noting, “The Maguey explanation from an expert was fantastic.” This kind of insight transforms a simple sightseeing trip into a learning experience that deepens your understanding of Mexico’s tequila tradition.

Arrival in Tequila and the Distillery Tour

Once in Tequila, the highlight for many is the visit to La Rojeña Distillery, the oldest in Latin America. Here, you’ll see the traditional methods of tequila production—from roasting agave to fermentation and distillation. The tour is guided, which adds a layer of credibility and allows you to ask questions about the process.

Several reviews indicate that this part of the trip is very engaging, especially if you’re interested in the craft of tequila-making. However, there are some critiques: one noted that “we spent a little too much time at the ranch and left Tequila city feeling rushed,” which suggests that if you’re eager to explore the town at your own pace, this tour might skimp on free time.

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Tequila Tasting and Mexican Show

A key component is the guided tasting—you’ll sample at least one drink, with an expert explaining how to appreciate its nuances. While some might expect a tasting of multiple tequilas, others say it’s more about understanding the drink’s qualities rather than sampling a variety of brands. One reviewer mentioned that the tour isn’t ideal for those wanting “multiple different tequilas in shot form,” but grades the educational aspect as excellent.

Afterward, enjoy the Mexican show at Mundo Cuervo, which features lively mariachi music, folkloric dance, and traditional toasts. This segment is highly praised for its authentic flavor and energetic performances.

The Return Journey in Style

As the day winds down, you board the Jose Cuervo Express train for the trip back to Guadalajara. The views of the sunset over agave fields make for perfect photos, and the onboard atmosphere is lively with games like La Lotería. The train ride is a relaxing way to reflect on your day while enjoying comfort and entertainment.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a comprehensive package:

• Included: Bus ride from Guadalajara, Jose Cuervo Express train, guided tequila tasting, distillery tour, Mexican show, and some free time.
• Not included: Food and drinks in Tequila town, hotel pickup/drop-off. It’s worth budgeting for meals and any additional drinks you want to try during your free time.

Practical Considerations

Bring comfortable shoes and clothes—be prepared for walking and possibly warm weather. Cash is recommended for souvenirs or extra snacks. The tour is usually in the morning, lasting about 11 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

This tour does a good job balancing education and entertainment. The guides are praised for their knowledge, adding value beyond just sightseeing. The visit to La Rojeña Distillery feels genuine, as it’s the oldest in Latin America, and showcases traditional production methods, which many travelers find fascinating.

The scenic train ride itself is a treat—an experience that elevates this tour from a typical guided trip. Many reviews highlight the enjoyment of the onboard games and the opportunity to relax in comfort while watching the Mexican countryside roll by.

Some Limitations

While many travelers find the experience rewarding, others note it’s somewhat rushed, especially in Tequila town. If you’re keen to explore the town at a leisurely pace, you might find the schedule tight. Also, for those wanting a more extensive tequila tasting experience with multiple brands or shots, this tour might not meet those expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded overview of tequila culture, combined with a scenic train ride and engaging performances. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided tours that mix education with lively entertainment. The included tequila tasting provides a meaningful introduction rather than a heavy sampling session—great for those new to tequila or looking to deepen their appreciation.

If your goal is to visit multiple distilleries or taste a range of tequilas, you might want to consider other options. This tour offers more of an overview, focusing on history, tradition, and cultural flair.

Final Thoughts

For anyone curious about Mexico’s most celebrated spirit, this tour offers a balanced combination of scenic beauty, cultural entertainment, and educational insight. The luxury train ride, in particular, adds a touch of class and fun that makes the day memorable. The visit to La Rojeña Distillery lets you see the vintage methods of tequila-making firsthand, which is a rare treat.

It’s a solid choice for those who appreciate a guided experience that covers the essentials without feeling overly rushed. The lively Mexican show and the scenic ride back make it a full-day adventure filled with authentic touches and beautiful views.

While not perfect for those wanting a more relaxed pace or a broader tasting of different tequilas, this tour delivers value through its engaging guides, stunning scenery, and cultural richness. It’s especially suited for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a taste of traditional Mexican spirit and hospitality in one memorable day.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 11 hours, usually starting in the morning and returning in the evening, making it an all-day outing.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers need to meet at the designated starting point in Guadalajara.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with cash for extras. It’s a full day, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Does the tour include multiple tequila tastings?
No, you’ll enjoy guided tasting of one drink, focusing on understanding its nuances rather than sampling a variety of brands.

Can I explore Tequila town on my own?
Yes, the tour includes some free time for walking and eating in Tequila town, but note that it might be limited, and the schedule is somewhat packed.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, the Jose Cuervo Express is a luxurious train with panoramic views, onboard games, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While primarily geared toward adults, families who enjoy scenic train rides and cultural shows may find it enjoyable. Check age restrictions if relevant.

Do I need to speak Spanish to enjoy the tour?
The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, so language should not be a barrier.

This full-day experience from Guadalajara offers a rich introduction to tequila’s history, culture, and production, wrapped in a scenic, lively package perfect for curious travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: