Tacos, Tequila, Cerveza – A Private Tour of Ensenada

Ever wondered what makes Ensenada a favorite spot for food and drink lovers? This private tour promises a taste of the city that goes beyond the typical cruise stop, offering genuine culinary and cultural experiences. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-balanced, fun-packed adventure that highlights the best of Baja California’s flavors.

What we love:

• The variety of authentic food stops, from tacos to ceviche.
• The engaging, knowledgeable guides who add local flavor to each stop.
• The chance to sample some of Baja’s top craft beers and expertly made tequila.

One potential downside:

• The tour does not include the cost of food and drinks, so you’ll need to budget extra pesos or dollars for your tasting experiences.

This tour suits foodies, beverage enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed but flavorful day exploring Ensenada. If you enjoy tasting local specialties with a small group and expert narration, this experience could be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Authentic food stops deliver true Baja flavors, not touristy gimmicks.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and storytelling.
• Flexible, small-group setting creates a personalized atmosphere.
• Variety of tastings from tacos to tequila and craft beer keep the day lively.
• Affordable price point offers excellent value for a 3-4 hour tour with multiple stops.
• High review score (5.0/5 from 10 reviews) reflects consistent quality and satisfaction.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your journey begins at Muelle Mirador Prol. Castillo 79 in Ensenada’s Zona Centro at 11:00 am. The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard, making the ride comfortable and connected—all essential for those who want to share moments or look up local tidbits during transit. With a maximum group size of 12, you’ll enjoy a cozy, friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for asking questions and bonding with fellow travelers.

First Stop: Taquería La México

The adventure kicks off at Taquería La México, where the focus is on Baja-style tacos—specifically the quesa-tacos with options like Asada or Adobada. Reviewers praise these tacos as “the best” they’ve ever had, revealing just how fresh and flavorful the ingredients are. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time to savor a couple of tacos and soak in the local vibe without feeling rushed.

What makes this stop notable:

• The cheese-filled quesadillas offer a different twist on traditional tacos, making them stand out.
• The free admission means you can enjoy the food without extra expense, but be prepared to pay for any drinks or additional dishes.

Second Stop: Tacos Don Zefe

Next, you’ll visit Tacos Don Zefe, a local favorite famous for Baja-style seafood tacos—think battered shrimp or fish—prepared with a crispy, flavorful batter that critics say is “perfectly battered.” This stop also features some of the best ceviche in Ensenada, according to reviews, adding a refreshing contrast to the fried seafood.

What to expect:

• About 45 minutes to enjoy a couple of tacos and ceviche.
• Again, free entry, so your main costs are the food and any drinks you choose.

Reviewers mention that the tacos here are “excellent,” and the ceviche is notably fresh and well-prepared, making this stop a highlight for seafood lovers.

Third Stop: “Doña Engracia” Tequilera Ensenada

The tour takes a spirited turn at Doña Engracia Tequilera, where tequila tasting is the main event. You can choose between a flight of perfectly mixed margaritas or take on the 5 shot challenge, which many reviewers describe as fun and educational. This stop is about 30 minutes, enough to learn about tequila production and taste some premium options.

Why this stop is valuable:

• The guide’s insights make the tasting more meaningful—reviewers describe the guides as “knowledgeable” and “personable.”
• Tasting tequila here adds a cultural dimension, beyond just drinking for fun.

Remember, tequila tasting is not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

Fourth Stop: Planta de Cervecería Aguamala

Finally, the tour wraps up at Aguamala Brewery, a hidden gem known for its craft beers. Here, you’ll find award-winning beers and the chance to try a beer flight—a fantastic way to sample a range of local brews. This stop is also about 45 minutes long, providing ample time to relax and chat about the day’s highlights.

What makes this brewery special:

• It’s a little off the beaten path, offering a more authentic, less touristy taste of Baja’s craft beer scene.
• The variety of beers means every palate can find something they enjoy, from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers.

Reviewers loved the beer selection, describing the staff as friendly and knowledgeable—a great way to end the day.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour provides WiFi and air conditioning during transit—valuable touches that keep the experience comfortable and connected. A complimentary tequila shot is included, adding a fun surprise.

Note:

• The tour only covers transportation and guided narration; food and drinks are extra.
• Travelers should bring pesos or US dollars to cover costs at each stop.
• It’s a small group experience (up to 12 travelers), keeping things intimate and flexible.

Authenticity and Review Insights

Based on the recent reviews, guides like Mauri and Rob stand out for their friendly, knowledgeable approach. Guests appreciated how guides shared personal insights and made the experience more engaging. One guest, Julia, mentioned that Mauri “took us to some fantastic places,” with a particular highlight being the food and tequila.

Another reviewer, Lynn, called Mauri “the best guide in Ensenada,” emphasizing the authentic, storytelling approach that made visitors feel like locals for a day. The emphasis on local, vetted stops ensures you aren’t just hitting tourist traps, but places that genuinely showcase Ensenada’s flavors.

The tacos, ceviche, and craft beers get high praise, with many describing the food as “excellent” and the tasting experiences as “educational and fun.” The guides’ flexibility and willingness to adapt the tour based on guest preferences** is a big plus, making each experience feel personalized.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re craving a relaxed, flavorful exploration of Ensenada, this tour offers a perfect mix of food, drink, and local stories. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid touristy spots and instead enjoy authentic Baja cuisine and drinks in a small, intimate group.

The balance of 4 to 5 stops ensures you get enough variety to satisfy your palate without leaving you overstuffed or exhausted. Plus, the reasonable price—around $52 per person—provides excellent value for the quality and personalization of the experience.

This tour also shines in its guest reviews, consistently earning a 5-star score, which speaks to its reliability and appeal.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Ensenada stands out for its authentic food and drink stops, knowledgeable guides, and intimate group size. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to truly taste Baja’s flavors without the hassle of planning or overly touristy venues. The combination of tacos, tequila, and craft beer makes for a fun, relaxed day that captures the essence of Ensenada’s culinary scene.

If you’re a foodie, a beverage enthusiast, or simply someone eager to explore local flavors in a friendly setting, this tour offers genuine value. The carefully curated stops, combined with the personal touch of seasoned guides, ensure you’ll come away with more than just photos—you’ll take home a genuine taste of Ensenada.

For those who want an experience that’s both fun and informative, with the right mix of relaxation and flavor, this tour is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Does the tour include the cost of food and drinks?
No, the tour price covers transportation and guiding, but food and beverages are extra. Be sure to bring pesos or US dollars for your tastings.

What is the tour’s duration?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Muelle Mirador Prol. Castillo 79 in Ensenada’s Zona Centro at 11:00 am and ends back at the same location.

How many people participate in each tour?
The tour accommodates up to 12 travelers, making it a small-group experience that encourages interaction and personalization.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible, but always check your own comfort and mobility needs.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund.

With its thoughtful stops, friendly guides, and focus on authentic flavors, this Ensenada tour offers a memorable way to connect with Baja’s culinary soul.