Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas

Introduction

If you’re seeking a lively glimpse into Mexican culinary traditions combined with a splash of tequila and a scenic escape, this Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas tour might just be your perfect afternoon. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it offers an engaging mix of hands-on cooking, flavorful tastings, and relaxation.

What we love about this experience is how it balances authenticity with fun—you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes like salsa de molcajete, guacamole, and enchiladas from scratch, all in a beautiful mountain setting. Plus, the artisanal tequila and mezcal tastings add a genuine local spirit to the day. The chance to unwind afterward by the pool or in hammocks is an added bonus.

One possible consideration is the long and bumpy van ride to the venue, which some found less comfortable, especially if riding in a vehicle dubbed “the Mexican roller coaster.” This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of culinary activity and scenic travel, and those who appreciate a lively, social atmosphere.

This tour appeals to food lovers, tequila enthusiasts, and anyone looking to combine good food with striking views in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting an authentic taste of Mexico outside the usual beaches and resorts.

Key Points

• Authentic Cooking Experience: Learn to make Mexican staples like salsa, guacamole, and enchiladas from fresh ingredients.
• Scenic Mountain Setting: The venue at La Dulce Vista offers stunning jungle and river views.
• Tequila & Mezcal Tasting: Sample small-batch, organic tequilas and mezcals, with knowledgeable guides explaining the nuances.
• Relaxing Afterward: Enjoy pools, jacuzzis, hammocks, and green spaces—bring your swimsuit.
• Group Size: Small groups (max 15) make for a friendly, interactive atmosphere.
• Value for Price: At just over $89, this includes transportation, lunch, drinks, and memorable experiences, making it a worthwhile investment for lovers of food and fun.

Discovering the Experience: A Detailed Look

The Pickup & Transportation

Your day begins at the meeting point near Marina Vallarta, around 10:30 am. The tour uses an air-conditioned open concept bus—not plush, but open to the elements, which means you’ll get a breeze and views en route, though it’s worth noting there’s no A/C. The group size is kept small, with no more than 15 travelers, ensuring a personal touch.

Some reviews mention the ride out as “sketchy” or “the Mexican roller coaster,” referring to the hairpin turns and winding roads up into the mountains. While the drive can be bumpy, it also adds to the adventure and the sense of escaping into nature. The scenic climb to La Dulce Vista, with its lush jungle backdrop and river views, makes this a worthwhile part of the experience despite any discomfort.

The Venue: La Dulce Vista

Once at the resort, you’ll find a spectacular outdoor setting—think green lawns, palm trees, and a pool overlooking the mountains. This tropical hideaway offers the perfect backdrop to learning and relaxing. The clean facilities, including bathrooms with handwashing stations, are noted as a plus.

The resort also hosts a swimming pool, jacuzzis, hammocks, and lush green areas, making it easy to unwind after the cooking and tasting. Bring your swimsuit if you want to soak, just as many guests did, making it a full day of leisure.

The Cooking Class

The core of the tour is a hands-on cooking session led by engaging guides like Cesar and Valeria, who blend humor, expertise, and a touch of personal storytelling. You’ll prepare famous Mexican dishes—from salsa molcajete and guacamole to chicken enchiladas or vegetarian options—using fresh ingredients purchased locally.

According to reviews, the class is accessible even for beginners, with many comments praising how much they learned and enjoyed the process. One guest noted, “Valeria was fun and charming, and we had a blast.” Another mentioned the useful tips shared about cooking techniques—especially how to fry tortillas on the grill or assemble tostadas.

The process is relaxed, emphasizing interactive participation rather than strict culinary mastery. This makes it ideal for families, couples, or groups who want to try their hand at Mexican cuisine in a friendly environment.

The Tasting & Drinks

Following the cooking, guests get to sample artisanal mezcal and tequila produced on-site. The selection includes Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, Pink, and Extra Aged Tequilas—all organically made in small batches, which adds a layer of authenticity and quality.

The guides explain the differences between the varieties, making it both educational and fun. The tasting is restricted to those over 18 but is described as “short and sweet” by most reviewers. Many guests appreciate the informative and lively guides who make the tasting enjoyable, often with generous pours of lemon margaritas as well.

Relaxation & Final Moments

After the meal and tasting, you’re free to relax. Guests frequently mention enjoying time by the pool, dipping their feet in the water, and lounging in hammocks. The serene setting combined with the lively drinks creates a perfect balance of activity and leisure.

Considerations & Tips

While the experience offers great value, some reviewers noted the long, bumpy ride could be uncomfortable—so pack accordingly if you’re sensitive to rough roads. Also, bring a swimsuit for the pool area. If you’re hoping to do extensive cooking or tortilla-making from scratch, be aware the class focuses more on preparation and assembly rather than full-on cooking from raw ingredients.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for foodies eager to learn real Mexican recipes, tequila lovers curious about small-batch spirits, and anyone seeking a scenic escape from the busy beaches. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy interactive, social experiences in a relaxed atmosphere. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find it a delightful way to spend half a day.

On the other hand, if your priority is pure luxury or a more sophisticated dining experience, this may feel more casual and rustic than you’d prefer. The drive, while scenic, may be less comfortable for some. And if you’re not interested in tequila or alcohol, note that the tastings are limited to those over 18.

Final Thoughts

For around $89, this tour provides a full afternoon of culinary learning, tequila tasting, and scenic relaxation—all set in a picturesque mountainside location. It’s a good value considering the included transportation, lunch, drinks, and the chance to walk away with new cooking skills and a deeper appreciation for Mexican spirits.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a warm, friendly atmosphere. The setting at La Dulce Vista offers a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and leisurely lounging. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to combine cultural authenticity with fun.

On the downside, the rough drive might not suit everyone, but the stunning views and overall experience tend to outweigh this for most guests. If you’re ready for a day of good food, good drinks, and beautiful scenery, this tour perfectly hits the mark for an authentic, enjoyable Puerto Vallarta adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians? Yes, the cooking class offers a vegetarian version of the dishes, including options like pico de gallo instead of salsa or guacamole.

How long does the whole experience last? It’s approximately 5 hours, starting around 10:30 am and returning to the original meeting point later in the afternoon.

What should I bring? Bring a bathing suit if you want to enjoy the pool afterward, and wear comfortable clothes suitable for a scenic drive and outdoor activity.

Are the tequila tastings limited to adults? Yes, the tastings are only for those over 18 years old, due to alcohol regulations.

Is transportation A/C? No, the open concept bus does not have air conditioning, so expect some fresh air and possibly a breeze during the journey.

Can I cancel in advance? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund.

How many people typically join? The group limit is 15, making it intimate enough for personal attention but lively enough for a fun group vibe.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to add a flavorful memory to your trip, this tour offers a tasty slice of Mexico’s culinary traditions served with scenic charm.