Tour to Guachimontones, hike agave fields and obsidian mines

Traveling from Guadalajara, this tour offers a fascinating blend of ancient ruins, natural landscapes, and indigenous craftsmanship. It promises not just sightseeing but an active day filled with walking, learning, and tasting. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of nature, or simply after a genuine glimpse into local traditions, this experience aims to deliver.

Two things we love about this tour are its engaging guides, who bring the sites to life with their knowledge, and the opportunities to taste authentic pre-Hispanic drinks and snacks. The inclusion of transportation and tickets adds to the convenience. That said, a consideration is the amount of walking involved—if mobility is an issue, you should prepare accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active, educational outings and want to go beyond typical tourist spots. It’s perfect for those eager to learn about Mexico’s ancient cultures in a hands-on way while enjoying its natural beauty.

Key Points

Authentic archaeological sites with unique concentric circle structures.
Hands-on experiences at obsidian workshops and agave fields.
Knowledgeable guides who enrich your understanding of the sites.
Tasty pre-Hispanic drinks and snacks included, adding flavor to the journey.
Comfortable transportation in recent-model vehicles for easy travel.
Moderate physical activity required, with some walking involved.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Plaza de la Liberación in Guadalajara, a central and accessible meeting point. From there, a recent-model vehicle whisks you away on a roughly 1-hour drive to the Volcano of Tequila, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a personable experience with ample opportunity for questions and interaction.

The cost is $83.51 per person, which covers transportation, entry fees, a certified guide, and traditional snacks and drinks. Considering the included activities and the personalized attention, many find this to be good value—especially when compared to paying separately for tickets, meals, and transport.

Stop 1: Tequila Volcano and Obsidian Mines

The journey kicks off with a visit to the Volcano of Tequila, renowned as the third volcano globally with the highest obsidian content. Here, you’ll spend over an hour walking through agave fields and exploring obsidian mines. The significance of this site lies in its natural resource—obsidian, a volcanic glass used for making tools and weapons for thousands of years.

We loved the way the guide explained how obsidian shaped ancient technologies and cultures, making this stop not just scenic but educational. The walk through the fields offers fresh air and a sense of connection to the land, which is quite refreshing compared to typical museum visits. The admission is free, so the focus remains on the experience itself.

Reviewers rave about the guide’s wealth of information, with one noting that Daniel, the guide, “soon answered any questions.” The walk offers decent physical activity, so expect some effort, but the payoff is the chance to see firsthand how indigenous artisans worked with volcanic glass.

Stop 2: Guachimontones Archaeological Site

Next, after about an 80-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Guachimontones, a site that’s truly unique in the world for its concentric circle structures. These ancient pyramids defy the typical rectangular layout of Mesoamerican architecture, creating a visually striking and intellectually stimulating experience.

The archaeological zone is complemented by an interpretive museum, where your guide will help unravel the mysteries of this pre-Hispanic city that served as the capital of a significant Mesoamerican empire. The admission is included, removing a common hassle and allowing more time to soak in the site’s distinctive geometry and history.

Several reviewers mention that the site captivates from the moment you arrive, with one saying, “Since you arrive you don’t know where to look since everything captivates you.” The walk around the ruins offers a chance to appreciate the scale and design, with plenty of opportunities for great photos.

Stop 3: The Village of Teuchitlán and the River

The final stop involves a short hike to the riverbank, where you’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings of spring water and fossil chinampas—ancient floating gardens—still used as recreational spots by locals. This area is also home to endemic fish and lush vegetation.

Here, you can taste some pre-Hispanic drinks—tejuino, honey water, and pulque—which are included and add an authentic flavor to your experience. The relaxed setting offers a chance to reflect on the day and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

One reviewer highlighted the great photos and the friendly atmosphere, noting that the guides make the visit both fun and informative. The walk is gentle, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

Additional Highlights: Food, Drinks, and Comfort

Throughout the day, you’ll be offered snacks like traditional fatties and alcoholic beverages based on ancient recipes. These small tastes of local culture can be surprisingly delightful, helping you connect with the region’s traditions.

Transportation is in recent-model vehicles, ensuring comfort and reliability. Extras like group discounts and mobile tickets make organizing and joining the tour straightforward, especially for those traveling solo or in small groups.

At $83.51, this tour offers a well-rounded package that balances entry fees, guide expertise, transportation, and food. Many travelers are impressed by the knowledgeable guides, who clearly love sharing stories about the sites, making the experience much richer.

The inclusion of interactive experiences like visiting obsidian workshops and tasting pre-Hispanic drinks enhances the sense of authenticity. Reviewers mention that the guided commentary is detailed and accessible, making complex topics understandable without overwhelming.

While the walking is moderate, expect to cover quite a bit of ground—suitable for active travelers who enjoy a bit of exercise amid their cultural explorations. The small group size (max 15) helps create an intimate atmosphere, avoiding the feeling of being herded around.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Unlike more superficial excursions, this tour digs into the craftsmanship and origins of local traditions. It’s a great choice for those who want more than just a photo opportunity; instead, you get a real sense of the land, its history, and its people.

Several reviews highlight the delicious local food and drinks as a memorable part of the day, not just an afterthought. That focus on flavor and tradition makes the experience stand out from more generic day trips.

This experience is an excellent fit for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those curious about indigenous cultures. It’s particularly suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking and some outdoor activity.

If you’re eager to explore less-visited archaeological sites and enjoy authentic local cuisine and drinks, this tour delivers on those counts. It’s also ideal for small groups or solo travelers who appreciate a personalized, guided experience.

Families with children might find the walking and outdoor activity manageable, but check fitness levels first. Those looking for a quick, easy sightseeing tour might find it a bit too active, but if you want meaningful engagement, it’s perfect.

This tour offers a rich mix of archaeology, natural beauty, and cultural experiences in a single day, making it a standout choice for travelers looking for depth and authenticity. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics make it easier to focus on enjoying the sights and stories rather than worrying about the details.

The inclusion of local snacks and drinks adds a flavorful touch, connecting you more deeply with the region’s traditions. For those who love active exploration with educational value, this tour is a compelling option, especially considering its reasonable price.

If your interests align with history, indigenous crafts, and scenic outdoor activities, this experience from Guadalajara is worth considering. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a personalized, small-group adventure that goes beyond the usual tourist routes.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time and visits to each site.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in recent-model vehicles, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.

Do I need to be physically active?
Yes, expect some walking and light hiking, especially at the archaeological site and along the agave fields.

What’s included in the price?
Admission to the archaeological zone and interpretive museum, water, guide, snacks, and pre-Hispanic drinks are included.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch is not included, but snacks and drinks are offered during the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for most, but consider the walking involved and your child’s stamina.

Are the guides fluent in English?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews suggest a high level of guide professionalism, likely including English.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a sense of adventure are recommended.

This tour to Guachimontones, agave fields, and obsidian mines combines hands-on learning, outdoor activity, and cultural discovery. It’s a rewarding way to deepen your understanding of Mexico’s ancient roots while enjoying fresh air and stunning landscapes.