Premium Plus Sunset

Introduction

This Premium Plus Sunset tour from Guadalajara offers a well-rounded glimpse into the world of tequila, combining cultural insights, scenic landscapes, and a touch of Mexican tradition. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews highlight a compelling experience worth considering.

What we particularly like about this tour is the opportunity to not only see how tequila is made but also to enjoy Mexico’s vibrant culture through art, music, and local gastronomy. The inclusion of the historical La Rojena distillery tour and the cultural center adds depth to the experience, giving travelers a better understanding of tequila’s significance in Mexican life.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s duration—around 11 hours—which means it’s a full day, and some travelers might find the schedule a bit packed, especially during the free time in Tequila town. But for those eager to maximize their day and see many highlights, this tour offers genuine value.

If you’re interested in exploring the essence of Jalisco’s most famous export with a mix of culture, scenic views, and authentic tasting, this tour is likely a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy learning through experiences, want a guided but flexible day, and are comfortable with a longer, day-long outing.

Key Points

• In-depth tequila experience with a demonstration of agave harvesting and distillery tours.
• Cultural enrichment at the Juan Beckmann Gallardo Cultural Center featuring art and tradition.
• Beautiful scenery aboard the Jose Cuervo Express train at sunset, with educational tastings.
• Flexible free time in Tequila town for exploring, eating, and shopping.
• All-in-one value: transportation, tastings, cultural visits, and the train ride included.
• Ideal for those curious about tequila, Mexican culture, and scenic train journeys.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Transportation & Arrival

Your day begins early, with a pickup at El Mante in Tlaquepaque, heading toward Tequila aboard the iconic Jose Cuervo Express train. The journey itself is part of the charm, combining comfortable private transportation with the style of a vintage train. Expect to be on the train around 9:00 am, with a maximum group size of about 226 travelers, which balances a lively atmosphere with a good chance for shared experiences.

Onboard, you can enjoy exclusive cocktails crafted with Jose Cuervo tequila, along with Mexican appetizers. These little bites and drinks set a festive tone, giving you a taste of the flavors you’ll encounter later in the day. The scenic views of agave fields rolling past the window are a highlight, offering your first glimpse of the landscape that makes this region so iconic.

Stop 1: Agave Fields and Jimador Demonstration

The first stop at the Campos de Agave Jose Cuervo is where the magic begins. Here, an expert jimador demonstrates the traditional method of harvesting agave, the plant that turns into tequila. Watching the jimador expertly cut the plant with a coa (a sharp, flat blade) reveals the skill involved in tequila production.

This part of the tour isn’t just about observation; it’s a lively celebration of Mexican culture, with music, dance, and typical activities that bring the town’s spirit to life. Many reviews praise this segment, noting that it’s both educational and entertaining. Travelers often mention the joy of seeing the jimador at work and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Stop 2: Cultural Center Visit

Next is the Centro Cultural Juan Beckmann Gallardo, where you can explore exhibits showcasing Mexico’s artistic and cultural heritage. The center’s displays include pre-Hispanic artifacts, traditional Mexican art, and charrería, Mexico’s national sport. This quick but meaningful stop offers insight into the traditions that underpin tequila’s cultural significance.

Reviewers appreciate this visit, especially those interested in arts and history. It’s a chance to connect the dots between Mexico’s ancient roots and modern celebrations, making the experience more than just a tour of a factory.

Stop 3: La Rojena Distillery

The Fabrica La Rojena provides a guided tour of one of Latin America’s oldest distilleries, with a detailed explanation of each step in producing tequila. From cooking the agave hearts to fermentation and distillation, this is the core of the experience.

Many travelers find this behind-the-scenes look fascinating, especially as it clarifies what makes authentic tequila so special. The tour is concise—about 30 minutes—but packed with information, and it’s included in the ticket price. Some reviewers note that it helps demystify the process, making subsequent tastings more meaningful.

Free Time in Tequila Town

After the distillery, you have a generous three hours to explore the Magic Town of Tequila. This is your chance to wander through quaint streets, shop for souvenirs, or sample local street foods. The town’s vibrant atmosphere, colorful buildings, and lively plazas make it an authentic slice of Mexican life.

Many visitors enjoy trying regional dishes or browsing for tequila bottles and crafts. This free time is flexible, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests. Keep in mind that eating at local eateries means you’re on your own for lunch, so plan accordingly.

Stop 4: Mexican Show and Sunset Train Ride

The evening culminates with a Mexican show at the Jose Cuervo Forum, lasting about 45 minutes. Expect lively music and traditional performances that showcase Mexico’s vibrant culture. It’s a lively, colorful finale before you board the train for the sunset ride back to Guadalajara.

As the train departs, you’ll enjoy an educational tasting of Jose Cuervo tequilas, paired with more Mexican snacks. The sunset views over the agave fields are a highlight, offering stunning photo opportunities and a peaceful end to a busy day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour balances educational value with authentic cultural experiences. The combination of a traditional agave harvest demonstration, a visit to a historic distillery, and a cultural center provides a well-rounded understanding of tequila’s significance. The train ride adds a touch of romance and relaxation, making the long day feel special.

The inclusions, especially the tastings and snacks, give you a sense of the flavors and traditions that make tequila so unique. This isn’t just a factory tour; it’s a celebration of Jalisco’s heritage, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy the scenery.

The reviews highlight the delicious food and tapas served during the train ride as a particular favorite. Travelers often mention the friendly guides and the lively atmosphere, which make the experience memorable.

Analyzing the Value

At $216.42 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: transport, cultural visits, distillery tour, tastings, snacks, and the train experience. It’s a full-day outing, and many travelers find the price justified by the diverse activities and immersive experience.

However, the long duration might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer shorter, more leisurely excursions. Still, for those keen to see multiple facets of tequila culture in one day, the price is reasonable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to curious travelers eager to learn about tequila beyond just tasting. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, scenic views, and lively entertainment. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and want a guided experience that takes you deep into Mexico’s tequila traditions, this tour is a solid choice.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, slow-paced day or with limited mobility, given the long hours and multiple stops. Also, those who want a meal included might need to plan for additional dining during free time.

The Sum Up

The Premium Plus Sunset tour from Guadalajara offers an engaging, comprehensive introduction to tequila, combining factory visits, cultural insights, and scenic train rides. It’s a well-crafted experience that balances education, entertainment, and authentic Mexican flavors, making it a fantastic value for curious travelers.

You’ll appreciate the chance to see how tequila is produced, explore an enchanting town, enjoy traditional music and dance, and end your day with breathtaking sunset views. The included tastings and snacks add to the overall enjoyment, helping you connect with Mexico’s spirit on a deeper level.

This tour is best suited for those who want a full, immersive day—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone eager to understand tequila’s cultural roots. If you’re looking for a lively, scenic, and educational outing, this experience won’t disappoint.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel aboard the Jose Cuervo Express train and private transportation from meeting point to the various stops in Tequila.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 11 hours, ending in Guadalajara after sunset.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you will have free time in Tequila town to eat at your own discretion.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. While tastings are included, there are plenty of other cultural and scenic highlights, and you can choose to skip the tastings if you prefer.

Is the tour suitable for kids or families?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the full-day schedule and age-appropriate activities when planning for children.

How many people typically join this tour?
The maximum group size is around 226 travelers, which helps foster a lively atmosphere without feeling too crowded.

This tour represents a well-rounded, authentic way to experience tequila and Mexican culture, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a meaningful and scenic day trip from Guadalajara.