Tequila Express Round Trip by Train

Planning a trip to Guadalajara and curious about exploring the tequila heartland? The Tequila Express Round Trip by Train offers a unique way to experience Mexico’s iconic spirit while enjoying scenic views and cultural richness. This tour promises a blend of comfort, tradition, and fun—perfect for those who want a laid-back but immersive day out.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the luxury of train travel combined with a detailed distillery tour, the authentic regional cuisine complemented by live mariachi, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price point—$320 per person—which might seem steep for some, but the scope of activities and inclusions justify it for many travelers. This tour best suits adults seeking cultural depth, a relaxed pace, and a taste of local tradition.

Good To Know

• Travel in style with air-conditioned transportation and a scenic train ride.
• Learn the tequila-making process from agave harvest to bottling at Casa Sauza.
• Enjoy regional cuisine with a buffet of six typical dishes and lively live mariachi.
• Experience local culture through folklore shows and authentic ambiance.
• All-inclusive drinks with complimentary tequila tastings and soft drinks.
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup and return service.

The Experience: From Guadalajara to Tequila in Style

This tour begins bright and early with a pickup from your hotel or designated address in Guadalajara. The booking includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which immediately sets a relaxed tone for the day. The journey to Tequila is approximately 2 hours, giving you a chance to sit back, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps review your expectations—think vibrant agave fields, colonial architecture, and the promise of tequila stories to come.

Why Train Travel Adds Value

The highlight of this experience is unquestionably the train journey, which takes you directly into the heart of the tequila region. The Tequila Express isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the charm, with a nostalgic vibe that transports travelers back in time. Reviewers have appreciated the joyous atmosphere onboard, with many noting that the train’s ambiance is both lively and comfortable, making the entire trip feel like a celebration.

First Stop: The UNESCO-Recognized Agave Landscape

Your first stop is the beautiful agavero landscape of Jalisco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006. This area is the birthplace of tequila and offers a visual feast of endless green fields and volcanic soil. Here, you’ll get a chance to observe the signature landscapes that define Mexican tequila—it’s a must-see for anyone interested in the origins of their favorite drink. Although this stop is just 2 hours and free of charge, it’s an ideal photo opportunity and a great intro to the region’s natural beauty.

The Heart of the Tour: Casa Sauza

The main event unfolds at Hacienda La Perseverancia, home to Casa Sauza. This historic distillery blends tradition with elegance, offering an immersive 3-hour exploration. The guided tour covers every step of tequila production—from the harvesting and cooking of agave pineapples to fermentation, distillation, and bottling.

One reviewer emphasized the value of this detailed process: “We loved the way the guide explained each stage of tequila-making, making it accessible and fascinating.” The inclusion of admission to Casa Sauza makes this part of the tour especially worthwhile, as you won’t have to worry about extra costs or logistics.

Authentic Dining and Cultural Nightlife

After the distillery, the tour shifts gears with a buffet lunch featuring six regional dishes—think baked vegetables, traditional salads, and local favorites—served in a setting that balances rustic charm with elegance. The meal is accompanied by a free drinks bar, offering tequila tastings, soft drinks, and water, which enables you to sample the region’s best without worrying about additional charges.

A highlight noted by previous travelers is the folklore show in Jardins de la Hacienda, where live music and dance add a memorable, authentic flavor to the experience. One guest remarked, “The mariachi performance really brought the atmosphere alive, making the whole day feel festive and genuine.”

Return Journey and Final Stops

After lunch, you’ll reboard the train for the journey back to Guadalajara, where two additional hours allow you to unwind and reflect on your day. Once in Guadalajara, transportation will transfer you back to your hotel or home, closing a seamless, well-organized day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes several valuable components, making it a convenient option. The air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup ensure comfort from start to finish, while the snacks, soft drinks, and an open bar with tequila tastings keep you refreshed. The lunch buffet is plenty satisfying, offering regional flavors that give you a taste of local cuisine.

The folklore show adds a lively cultural touch, elevating the overall experience. However, it’s important to note that tips are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to show appreciation for guides or staff.

Considerations

The price of $320 per person might seem high, but when you break down the inclusions—transport, guided tours, meals, drinks, and entertainment—it offers good value for a full-day, immersive experience. The tour is designed for adults with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and standing are involved, especially at the distillery. The tour’s maximum capacity is 200 travelers, which strikes a balance between a lively group and a more intimate experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour begins at 9:00 am, so plan to arrive early if you’re not booked for pickup.
• Booking about 53 days in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular.
• The experience is non-refundable, so confirm your plans before booking.
• Given the guided nature of the tour, expect some walking, but overall it’s manageable for most travelers.
• While the tour is recommended for adults only, it appeals to those interested in cultural, culinary, and beverage experiences.
• The tour operates regardless of weather—so dress comfortably, with layers if needed.
• Check your booking confirmation for any additional instructions or updates on departure.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers craving a comprehensive tequila experience combined with scenic beauty, this tour delivers. The combination of train travel, guided distillery visits, regional cuisine, and live music creates a memorable day that captures the essence of Mexico’s tequila industry.

While it’s priced higher than some alternatives, the inclusions—especially the detailed tour and cultural entertainment—justify the cost for many. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy comfort, culture, and social atmospheres, rather than purely adventure or outdoor pursuits.

This experience is perfect for adults seeking a relaxing yet informative day, wanting to learn about tequila in an authentic setting, and enjoying a taste of regional hospitality. If you prefer more active or budget-friendly tours, this might not be the best fit, but for those wanting a special, well-rounded day, it’s a strong choice.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including pickup, travel, the distillery visit, lunch, and return.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, a private vehicle will pick you up at your hotel or specified address in Guadalajara.

What’s the main focus of the tour?
The tour centers on visiting Casa Sauza’s distillery to learn about tequila production, complemented by regional dining and cultural entertainment.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s a free drinks bar with tequila tastings, soft drinks, and water throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is recommended for adults only, likely due to the tasting and cultural elements.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure of your plans beforehand.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 200 travelers participate, which helps maintain a lively yet manageable group size.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, with layers if needed, especially since you’ll be outdoors at scenic stops.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as some walking and standing are involved at the distillery and scenic areas.

Final Thoughts

The Tequila Express Round Trip by Train offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Mexico’s beloved tequila culture, set against stunning landscapes and lively entertainment. It combines comfort, education, and fun in a way that appeals to those who want to indulge in authentic regional flavors while experiencing the magic of train travel.

Best suited for adults who value cultural authenticity, scenic journeys, and a relaxed pace, this tour provides a well-rounded, memorable day out. Whether you’re a tequila enthusiast or simply eager to explore Jalisco’s storied traditions, this experience promises a taste of Mexico’s vibrant spirit—literally and figuratively.