From Guadalajara to Cuervo. Worlds Largest Tequila Factory

If you’re considering a day trip from Guadalajara into the heart of Mexico’s tequila country, this tour offers a solid glimpse into the nation’s most famous spirit. It promises visits to historic distilleries, a stroll through the vibrant town of Tequila, and plenty of opportunities to sample some of the best tequila direct from the barrels.

What we like most about this experience are the insightful guided tours that explain the distillation process in detail and the stunning views of blue agave fields that make the region so iconic. It’s also a chance to sip tequila right from the aging barrels, a rare treat for enthusiasts. However, a potential downside is the mixed language experience, as some guests have noted that the English-speaking guides are not always consistent, which can affect the flow of information.

This tour suits travelers who are curious about Mexico’s iconic spirit, enjoy learning through guided explanations, and want to see authentic local sights beyond just the crowded streets of Guadalajara. Adventure seekers, tequila aficionados, and cultural travelers alike can find value here, provided they’re okay with a long day and the possibility of language barriers.

Key Points

• Authentic insight into tequila production from a historic and largest distillery
• Opportunity to taste tequila directly from barrels, a rare experience
• Beautiful views of blue agave fields and a charming town, Tequila
• Visits to two different types of tequila factories—artisanal and mass production
• A culturally rich experience that includes tasting, history, and local food
• Flexible booking options and wheelchair accessibility

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup in Guadalajara and Scenic Drive

The tour begins with a pickup in Guadalajara, with a pickup window between 9:30 and 10:45 AM depending on your hotel location. The comfortable van takes you on a roughly one-hour journey into the heart of tequila country. The drive itself offers a chance to see the landscape transform from urban sprawl to lush fields, punctuated by lush blue agave plants.

Visit to Tequila Don Cayo

Your first stop, Tequila Don Cayo, is a guided tour lasting about an hour and a half. Here, you’ll get a clear picture of how tequila is made on a traditional scale. The guides here are knowledgeable, explaining the different types of agave and how they are harvested, cooked, and fermented. This stop is especially interesting because it combines artisanal techniques with modern methods, giving you a comprehensive view of tequila production.

Photo Stop at Amatitán

Next, a quick 20-minute stop at Amatitán provides a chance to snap photos of the sweeping agave fields. These views are truly breathtaking — endless rows of spiky blue-green plants stretching across the landscape. It’s an excellent photo op and a reminder of why this region is so closely tied to Mexico’s cultural identity.

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Lunch at Mariscos el Carnal Ruta del Tequila

For about an hour and a half, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch at Mariscos el Carnal, a local favorite specializing in seafood, which pairs well with the tequila theme. The meal is a good chance to relax and discuss what you’ve learned so far, and the casual atmosphere makes it a highlight for many visitors.

Visit to La Rojeña, the Oldest Tequila Factory

The highlight of the day is a guided tour of Fábrica La Rojeña, the oldest tequila distillery in the world, operated by José Cuervo. The guided walk here is about an hour long, and you’ll learn details about the historic process of tequila distillation, from pulque to the aging barrels. This factory is massive, and the guides are well-versed, offering a detailed look into both traditional and modern techniques.

Tasting Experience at José Cuervo

After the tour, a unique tasting session awaits. You’ll be able to sample tequila directly from the barrels of the oldest winery, a rare chance to savor the spirit in its most authentic form. This tasting offers insight into how aging impacts flavor, and it’s sure to be a memorable highlight for fans of the drink.

Cultural Stop at Cantaritos el Güero

No tequila tour is complete without sampling the local beverage, and at Cantaritos el Güero, you’ll find the iconic “cantarito,” a traditional clay mug filled with a refreshing mix of tequila, citrus, and soda. Spending an hour here allows visitors to soak in the local vibe and see how this regional specialty was born.

Return to Guadalajara

After a full day of learning and tasting, you’ll be taken back to your accommodation in Guadalajara. The return trip offers a moment to reflect on the day’s highlights and share impressions with fellow travelers.

Highlights and Authentic Experiences

The guided tours at both the artisanal and large-scale tequila factories are where this experience shines. Guides share insights into each step of the tequila-making process, transforming what could be a touristy visit into an educational journey. The ability to taste tequila straight from the barrels is a highlight not offered in many tours and adds an authentic touch for connoisseurs.

The stunning agave fields are more than just a backdrop; they are the reason this region is so special, and being able to see the landscape up close makes the entire experience more tangible. Visiting Cantaritos el Güero introduces visitors to a regional tradition, making the tour a well-rounded blend of history, culture, and flavor.

The Reality: Pros and Cons

While the tour offers many memorable moments, some guests have expressed concerns about language barriers. One reviewer noted that although they booked an English-speaking tour, the guide primarily spoke Spanish, which limited their understanding of the process. They also experienced some disjointedness at the second tequila stop, where guides did not speak English, leading to confusion about buying drinks or understanding the tasting process.

In terms of value, the tour’s price reflects its comprehensive nature—visiting two factories, a traditional town, a seafood lunch, and tastings—making it worthwhile for those interested in tequila and Mexican culture. The 9-hour duration is long but packed, and the transport, with pickup included, adds convenience.

The wheelchair accessibility and flexible cancellation policy are practical benefits, especially for travelers with mobility needs or uncertain plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers wanting to understand tequila beyond just tasting. It’s well-suited for those interested in the history and production of tequila, as well as for cultural explorers eager to see the traditional Mexican town of Tequila.

However, if you’re mainly after a party or a more casual tasting experience, you might find some stops less engaging. Also, travelers who don’t speak Spanish fluently may want to clarify language arrangements beforehand, given the mixed reviews on guides’ language skills.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a solid, educational introduction to Mexico’s most famous spirit. It’s a blend of history, culture, and tasting, set against a backdrop of beautiful agave fields and traditional town scenes. The visit to La Rojeña, with tequila straight from the barrels, is a standout feature. The guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery make it a worthwhile outing—if you’re prepared for the possibility of language barriers and a full day.

For those genuinely interested in tequila, its history, and its production, this tour delivers a memorable story with authentic moments. It’s especially good for travelers who value understanding the craft behind Mexico’s national drink, paired with the visual pleasure of Mexico’s lush landscape.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is included and is coordinated via WhatsApp. The pickup time varies between 9:30 and 10:45 AM depending on your hotel location.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, which makes it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Do I need to pay extra at the tequila factory?
You will need to pay less than a dollar as an eco-fee at the tequila factory, which is a small additional cost.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides are available in Spanish and English, but some reviews indicate that not all guides speak fluent English, which could impact the experience for non-Spanish speakers.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time, tastings, and sightseeing.

This tour offers an engaging, authentic peek into Mexico’s tequila industry, perfect for those eager to learn and taste in a scenic, culturally rich setting. With the right expectations, it can be a highlight of your trip to Guadalajara and the surrounding region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby