From Guadalajara: La Rojeña Distillery & Jose Cuervo Train

From Guadalajara: La Rojeña Distillery & Jose Cuervo Train is a popular choice for travelers eager to explore Mexico’s iconic spirit while soaking in vibrant scenery and culture. Whether you’re a tequila enthusiast or just curious about the process behind the well-loved drink, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It stands out for its combination of scenic travel, educational insights, and lively entertainment—delivered in a comfortable, organized package.

We especially appreciate the stunning views of agave fields, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to experience Mexican culture firsthand during the show at Mundo Cuervo. However, some visitors note that the itinerary can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for an in-depth tasting of multiple tequilas. Still, this tour is ideal for those who want a taste of everything—beautiful landscapes, a historic distillery, and fun local entertainment—all in one day.

Who this tour suits best? It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Guadalajara looking to understand tequila’s origins, couples seeking a memorable day trip, or anyone eager to combine sightseeing with a cultural experience. If you’re comfortable with a long, full-day outing and are curious about Mexico’s most famous spirit, this is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines scenic travel, distillery tour, and cultural entertainment.
• Authentic Insights: Guided tequila tasting and distillery visit provide educational value.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Agave fields and sunset views make for memorable photos.
• Cultural Entertainment: Mariachi and folkloric dance show add lively local flavor.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Good introduction for those new to tequila and Mexican traditions.
• Consider Timing: Some reviews mention the schedule feels a bit rushed, especially at the town stop.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Journey from Guadalajara to Tequila

This tour kicks off in Guadalajara, with the journey itself being part of the appeal. You’ll hop aboard the José Cuervo Express, a plush train that whisks you away to tequila country. The ride is more than just transportation—it’s a highlight, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery of Jalisco’s famous blue agave fields. Expect comfortable seating, light snacks, and possibly some traditional Mexican games like La Lotería onboard, making the trip fun and engaging.

Traveling in style, the train’s windows frame the landscape like a moving postcard, giving you your first glimpses of the sprawling agave plantations. As some reviews mention, knowing more about the specific train cars might add extra interest—something to consider if you’re a train enthusiast. The ride itself is about 2.5 hours, providing ample time to settle in and enjoy the views.

The Agave Fields and Jimador Demonstration

Once you arrive in Tequila, the real excitement begins. The tour includes a stop at a ranch where you’ll see a jimador at work, demonstrating how agave is harvested. This part of the experience is highly appreciated, with visitors like Efrain from the U.S. noting that the live jima demonstration was a highlight. It’s fascinating to watch these skilled workers slice into the plant with traditional tools, showcasing an age-old craft.

This stop also provides the chance to shoot some photos of the vibrant landscape—rolling hills dotted with blue agave stretching as far as the eye can see. The scenery is truly captivating and a reminder of Mexico’s agricultural roots.

Tequila Education and Tasting

Upon reaching Tequila town, the focus shifts to understanding this spirit’s journey from plant to glass. You’ll enjoy a guided tequila tasting led by an expert, who explains the different flavors and how to appreciate them like a connoisseur. While some visitors, like Chase, feel the tasting is more about the history than sampling a wide variety of tequilas, others find the insights invaluable.

The guide’s expertise is often praised; they clarify the differences between categories like blanco, reposado, and añejo, helping you develop a new appreciation for tequila beyond the typical shot. This educational component is especially valuable for those unfamiliar with the nuances of the spirit.

La Rojeña Distillery: Mexico’s Oldest Liquor Producer

The highlight for many is a visit to La Rojeña Distillery, the oldest distillery in Latin America. Here, you’ll learn about the tequila-making process, from cooking the agave to distillation. The tour is designed to be engaging, with guides sharing stories about the distillery’s history and operations. As one reviewer noted, the tour is “fascinating,” with insights into traditional methods and modern techniques.

While not a tasting tour per se, this visit deepens your understanding of the craftsmanship behind the spirit. For some, it’s a chance to appreciate the heritage and complexity involved in producing tequila, which elevates the drinking experience when you return home.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Mexican Entertainment at Mundo Cuervo

An energetic Mexican show at Mundo Cuervo caps off the daytime activities. You’ll enjoy lively mariachi music, folkloric ballet, and a traditional Mexican toast—adding a festive, authentic flavor to your day. Reviewers like Efrain mention that the show is “vibrant and fun,” perfect for experiencing local culture.

Return Journey on the José Cuervo Express

As the day winds down, you’ll board the luxury train for the return trip, soaking in the sunset over the agave fields. The ride back is relaxed, with opportunities to socialize or enjoy the scenery. Some travelers enjoy playing traditional Mexican games onboard, making the journey a continuation of the cultural experience.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Duration: About 11 hours, mostly spent traveling and exploring.
• Price: At $215 per person, the cost includes transportation, the train ride, guided tours, tastings, and entertainment—representing good value for a full day of activities.
• Inclusions & Exclusions: Food and drinks in Tequila are not included, so consider bringing cash for snacks or meals during free time.
• Transport: The bus from Guadalajara to Tequila and the train back ensure comfort and convenience, but be prepared for a full day.
• Timing: The tour typically starts in the morning—worth arriving 15 minutes early to settle in.
• Language: Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible to a wide audience.

What Reviewers Say

Many appreciate the knowledge of the guides and the stunning scenery, with Efrain noting that the maguey explanation was particularly insightful. Chase, however, mentioned that if you’re expecting a major tequila tasting experience with multiple shots, this tour might not meet that desire, as the focus leans more toward education and cultural entertainment. A Costa Rican traveler expressed a wish to learn more about the train cars and types of tequila served, suggesting that some details could be clearer.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the world of tequila, combining scenic beauty, history, craftsmanship, and lively Mexican culture. The experience is particularly suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown without the complexity of multiple stops or lengthy tastings. It’s a good value considering the inclusions and the quality of entertainment.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an extensive tequila tasting or a slow-paced exploration, it compensates with its balanced itinerary and authentic vibe. Expect stunning views, expert-guided insights, and a memorable cultural show—all within a day packed with meaningful moments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in learning the story behind Mexico’s national drink, enjoy scenic train rides, and appreciate lively entertainment, this tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of tequila’s heritage without sacrificing comfort or variety. Be prepared for a long day, but one filled with diverse experiences that give you a genuine feel for Jalisco’s spirit and culture.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a bus from Guadalajara to Tequila and the José Cuervo Express train back from Tequila to Guadalajara.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 11 hours, usually starting in the morning and ending in the evening.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks in Tequila town are not included, so you’ll want to bring some cash for snacks or lunch during free time.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with cash for extras.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible for non-Spanish speakers.

What is the main highlight?
Many say the train ride and agave scenery are the most memorable, along with the guided distillery tour.

Is the tequila tasting extensive?
It’s guided and informative, but not a multiple-shots tasting. It’s more about learning how to appreciate tequila’s nuances.

Are there options for free time?
Yes, you have some free time in Tequila town to explore, eat, or shop at your own pace.

Is this suitable for kids or families?
While the tour is more adult-oriented, families with older children interested in Mexican culture and scenery may enjoy it.

What if I want a more in-depth tequila experience?
This tour provides a good overview but may not satisfy dedicated tequila connoisseurs seeking multiple tastings and in-depth tasting sessions.

To sum it up, this tour balances scenic beauty, cultural richness, and educational insights into tequila’s heritage. It offers great value for those wanting a full day immersed in Jalisco’s most iconic traditions. Perfect for first-timers and casual explorers who enjoy a mix of history, landscapes, and lively entertainment, it’s a memorable way to connect with Mexico’s spirited culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: