Tequila Express Round Trip by Train

If you’re planning a trip to Guadalajara and want to experience a blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and the world-famous tequila, the Tequila Express Round Trip by Train offers a compelling option. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, we’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if this tour fits your travel style.

What we like most about this experience is how it combines the romance of train travel with a behind-the-scenes look at tequila production, plus the opportunity to enjoy regional cuisine and lively mariachi music. On the flip side, some might find the 12-hour duration a bit lengthy, especially if you prefer more flexibility. But if you’re a fan of guided tours, culture, and scenic train rides, this experience is likely to delight.

This tour seems perfect for history and culture lovers, tequila enthusiasts, or travelers who prefer organized, all-in-one experiences. Families with older children, couples, and groups interested in authentic local traditions will find plenty to enjoy.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Private vehicle pickup in Guadalajara ensures a smooth start and end to the day.
• Authentic culture: From tequila distillery tours to mariachi performances, this tour offers lively, genuine regional flavor.
• All-inclusive experience: Lunch, drinks, and snacks are covered, making it easy to relax and enjoy.
• Scenic journey: The train ride itself offers stunning views of UNESCO-listed agave landscapes.
• Value for money: At $320 per person, it provides a comprehensive day of sightseeing, tasting, and entertainment.
• Limited flexibility: The scheduled 12-hour day may be long for some, with no options for customizing stops or timing.

Introduction: Why Consider the Tequila Express Tour?

This tour presents a unique way to explore the famed Tequila Route of Jalisco — a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with rolling agave fields and charming towns. The highlight is undoubtedly the train journey, which offers a relaxed, scenic alternative to driving.

Two features that stand out are the guided tour of Casa Sauza, a historic tequila distillery, and the live mariachi performance during lunch. These add layers of authenticity and entertainment that elevate the experience beyond a simple visit.

However, a potential drawback is the length of the day — at roughly 12 hours, it’s an all-day affair. While that allows ample time to savor each stop, it might feel a bit strenuous for travelers with limited stamina or tight schedules.

This tour is best suited for those who want an organized, immersive day with a focus on culture, scenery, and regional gastronomy.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: The Agavero Landscape in Jalisco

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or home in Guadalajara via private vehicle. Expect a comfortable ride as you head toward the lush, UNESCO-protected agave fields. This landscape is visually stunning — vast, green, and dotted with the iconic blue agave plants that produce tequila.

This scenery isn’t just eye candy but also the foundation of everything that makes tequila special. We’ve read that travelers find the landscape to be a mesmerizing introduction to the cultural significance of the region.

Stop 2: The Town of Tequila

The town of Tequila itself is a highlight, renowned for its lively atmosphere and picturesque streets. As a UNESCO “Magic Town,” it’s full of colorful buildings, local shops, and an authentic vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into the heart of Mexico’s tequila culture.

When you hear “tequila,” it’s often associated with partying — but here, it’s also about tradition and craftsmanship. The town’s charm is a blend of rustic history and lively modernity, perfect for a quick walk or some souvenir shopping.

Stop 3: Casa Sauza — Hacienda La Perseverancia

The main event is the visit to Casa Sauza, one of the most famous tequila distilleries in Mexico. The guided tour takes about three hours and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at each stage of tequila production — from harvesting agave to bottling the final product.

According to reviews, visitors love the storytelling aspect of the tour. One reviewer noted, “The history, tradition, and elegance of Casa Sauza make this stop well worth it,” emphasizing its cultural significance. The hacienda’s architecture is impressive, blending historical details with modern facilities, making it a memorable visit.

Stop 4: Lunch and Folklore Show

After the distillery exploration, it’s time for a buffet lunch featuring six regional dishes, along with baked vegetables and salads. The setting is a lovely outdoor garden — a peaceful spot to unwind after the tour.

The meal is accompanied by live mariachi music, adding authenticity and energy to the experience. The reviews mention that the lively music “really amplifies the regional atmosphere,” making it a highlight for many.

Return Journey: Scenic Train Ride and Back to Guadalajara

Post-lunch, the Tequila Express takes you on a scenic journey back toward Guadalajara. The train offers a relaxed atmosphere, with soft drinks and snacks available onboard. You’ll again enjoy views of the agave fields and countryside — a peaceful way to reflect on your day.

Once back in Guadalajara, a private vehicle transports you directly to your accommodation, completing a full, satisfying day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of train travel, culture, and regional cuisine makes this tour a well-rounded experience. The train ride adds a level of nostalgia and comfort, setting a leisurely pace for your exploration. Plus, the guided distillery visit provides a tangible connection to tequila’s craftsmanship, which is often overlooked in casual tastings.

The lively folklore show during lunch is a genuine touch, giving you a taste of regional music and traditions. This creates a festive, vibrant atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

Practical Aspects & Value

At $320 per person, this tour might seem on the higher side, but it includes transportation, a guided tour, lunch, drinks, and entertainment — all bundled into one comprehensive package. For those who value convenience, it’s a good deal considering the logistics are taken care of for you.

The pickup from your hotel ensures a hassle-free start, especially valuable if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation options. The group size is capped at 200 travelers, but reviews suggest it often feels intimate enough for meaningful interaction.

The duration — about 12 hours — is something to consider. It’s a full day, so if you prefer more flexible or shorter outings, this might feel a bit intense. But for those who want a focused, immersive experience, it’s just right.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is tailor-made for cultural explorers, food and drink aficionados, and scenery lovers. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided tours, want to learn about tequila production firsthand, and love the idea of traveling by train through beautiful landscapes.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate authentic regional entertainment, like mariachi music, and are comfortable with long days. Travelers who prefer a structured, all-in-one experience will find this tour offers good value and memorable moments.

Final Thoughts

The Tequila Express Round Trip by Train provides a comfortable, immersive way to explore Mexico’s iconic tequila region. It combines scenic train travel, engaging distillery tours, regional cuisine, and lively music — a package that appeals to those who want to get the most out of a day’s journey without the hassle of self-organizing every detail.

While the long day might be a consideration, the overall value lies in the seamless blend of adventure, education, and cultural enjoyment. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to experience authentic tequila traditions in a relaxed, lively setting.

For anyone seeking a well-rounded, guided day trip with plenty of authentic touches, this tour captures the spirit of Jalisco in a most memorable way.

FAQ

How do I get picked up for the tour?
A private vehicle will collect you from your hotel or address in Guadalajara. Make sure to confirm your pickup location when booking.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, the guided tour at Casa Sauza, a buffet lunch with regional dishes, soft drinks and alcohol, snacks onboard, and a folklore show.

Are drinks available during the tour?
Yes, there is a free drinks bar onboard with tequila, soft drinks, and water. During lunch, soft drinks are also available.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is recommended for adults only, likely due to the focus on tequila tasting and the long duration.

What is the duration of the entire experience?
The total estimated time is about 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, lunch, and the train ride.

Can I cancel or modify the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. If canceled, you won’t receive a refund.

What is the size of the tour group?
The maximum group size is 200 travelers, providing a lively but manageable atmosphere.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and some outdoor exposure are recommended.

Is there any physical activity involved?
The tour involves walking at the stops, but overall physical activity is moderate.

Will I get a chance to buy souvenirs?
Yes, the visit to Tequila and Casa Sauza offers opportunities to purchase tequila and regional crafts.

Whether you’re eager to learn about tequila, enjoy scenic train rides, or learn about Mexican culture, the Tequila Express offers a memorable day out. Just plan for the full duration, and you’ll likely find it a rewarding experience that captures the true spirit of Jalisco.