The Borracho Tour

Our review of The Borracho Tour offers a look at this engaging experience that promises an authentic dive into San Miguel de Allende’s vibrant mezcal culture. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary and traveler insights suggest it’s a lively way to discover the city’s traditional cantinas and taste exceptional spirits.

What stands out most is the tour’s focus on local mezcal, lovingly produced in Guanajuato, and the chance to learn about the traditions behind this iconic Mexican spirit. The tour’s intimate group size (max 15 travelers) and inclusion of all tastings make it a practical choice for those interested in a relaxed, authentic experience.

However, a potential consideration is the non-refundable policy, which means travelers should be certain about their schedule before booking. This tour is best suited for adults eager to appreciate local drinks and culture, especially those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere in historic settings.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on traditional cantinas, not touristy bars.
• All-Inclusive: Tasting of mezcal and drinks are included in the price.
• Short and Sweet: Lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, ideal for a quick cultural fix.
• Small Group: Max 15 travelers for a more personal feel.
• Local Insight: Led by a knowledgeable guide sharing behind-the-scenes stories.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starts in front of San Miguel’s main plaza, easy to find.

An Overview of the Borracho Tour

San Miguel de Allende is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and charming streets, but the mezcal culture remains one of its best-kept secrets. The Borracho Tour is designed to bring that aspect into focus, taking visitors beyond the usual sightseeing and into the heart of the city’s traditional cantinas. It’s a guided walk that combines culinary education, local storytelling, and authentic drinking.

For just over two and a half hours, you’ll visit some of the most iconic cantinas—like La Coronela, Octagono, Los Remedios, and Bar Tenampa—though the exact locations can vary, especially during holidays or special events. The tour’s flexible itinerary allows the guide to select the most lively and culturally significant spots, making each experience slightly unique.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins in the late afternoon, at 4:00 pm, perfect for catching the sunset and settling into the lively atmosphere of San Miguel’s central plaza. You’ll meet your guide in front of the Templo del Oratorio de San Felipe Neri, a historic and picturesque spot that sets the tone for your cultural journey.

As you stroll through the city’s iconic cantinas, you’ll get to sample a variety of mezcal—each with its unique flavor profile and production story. The tastings are all included, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs. The atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of time to ask questions and soak in the ambiance.

Each cantina offers a different vibe, from traditional locales to more lively spots, helping you feel part of the local scene. The guide will share insights about mezcal production, drinking customs, and local histories, enriching your appreciation of this Mexican staple.

The Experience of Local Cantinas

The selected cantinas are well-loved local institutions, not tourist traps. “I loved the authentic vibe” one traveler noted, pointing out how the tour “really felt like stepping into a native’s favorite hideaway.” The guide’s stories about traditions and history help elevate the experience from just drinking to understanding a significant part of local culture.

The Taste of Guanajuato in Every Sip

The mezcal you’ll sample is produced in Guanajuato, adding a regional twist to each glass. This is a wonderful way to appreciate the diversity of mezcal styles—some smoky, others smooth—while learning what makes Guanajuato’s versions special.

Atmosphere and Group Size

The group size is capped at 15, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention. The tour’s social nature means you’ll likely meet fellow travelers from around the world, all eager to share stories and experiences—an aspect often highlighted in reviews as a delightful part of the journey.

Evaluating the Value

At $100.13 per person, the tour includes all tastings and a guide’s expertise. Considering the price of mezcal in bars or restaurants, this package offers good value—especially as it combines education, local ambiance, and a taste of authentic Guanajuato-made mezcal.

That said, it’s a relatively short experience, so if you’re seeking a deep dive into Mexico’s broader mezcal scene or a longer tasting session, you might find this focused on the highlights rather than exhaustive exploration. Still, for most travelers, this brisk, lively walk offers a memorable snapshot of San Miguel’s spirits and social customs.

Practical Tips for Participants

• The tour begins at 4:00 pm, so plan to arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point.
• Wear comfortable shoes—walking is involved, and the streets are cobbled.
• Remember, participants must be at least 18 years old to taste alcohol.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but if you’re looking for a more in-depth tasting experience, consider supplementing with other food or wine tours available locally.
• Since the tour is non-refundable, ensure your schedule can accommodate it before booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy sampling local spirits and learning about cultural traditions in a relaxed setting. It’s equally suited for those who appreciate a social atmosphere and want to explore San Miguel’s iconic cantinas with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re curious about how mezcal is made and want to taste authentic Guanajuato varieties, this tour hits the mark.

However, if your focus is purely on historical sightseeing or a comprehensive food tour, you might want to look at other options. The Borracho Tour offers a flavorful, sociable, and authentic taste of local life—an experience that stays true to San Miguel’s lively spirit.

The Borracho Tour offers a charming, practical way to experience San Miguel de Allende’s local mezcal culture. Its emphasis on authentic cantinas, regional spirits, and cultural storytelling makes it a worthwhile addition to your trip, especially if you enjoy a relaxed, social tasting experience. The inclusion of all drinks and the small group size ensures a personal and enjoyable outing.

While it’s not an exhaustive exploration of Mexico’s mezcal heritage, it provides a solid, flavorful introduction to the spirit and the city’s beloved drinking spots. The tour’s timing and pace are well-suited for travelers looking to combine a cultural activity with casual socializing.

If you’re looking for a fun, authentic way to learn about San Miguel’s local traditions and enjoy some quality mezcal, this tour is a sound choice—particularly for first-timers or anyone eager to sip their way through the city’s vibrant cantinas.

Is the Borracho Tour suitable for all ages?
No, participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in the alcoholic tastings, but the tour itself is accessible to most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, making it a convenient, half-day activity without taking up your entire evening.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Templo del Oratorio de San Felipe Neri, right in the heart of San Miguel’s historic center.

What’s included in the price?
All tastings and drinks are included, along with the services of a knowledgeable local guide.

Can the locations visited change?
Yes, the specific cantinas may vary depending on holidays or local events, but they will be iconic and relevant to the city’s mezcal tradition.

Is transportation provided during the tour?
No, the tour involves walking from one cantina to another within the city center.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking on cobbled streets.

Is the tour refundable if I cancel?
No, the experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Whether you’re a seasoned spirit lover or just curious about Mexico’s famous mezcal, The Borracho Tour provides a friendly, authentic taste of San Miguel de Allende’s spirited social scene.