Guadalajara: Secrets of the Highlands Tequila Route

If you’re heading to Guadalajara and want to explore beyond the city’s lively streets and vibrant markets, a tour focused on the tequila craft offers a fascinating peek into Mexico’s most iconic spirit. The “Secrets of the Highlands Tequila Route” tour promises an engaging mix of distillery visits, scenic agave fields, and charming towns, all wrapped up with a delicious Mexican meal. It’s perfect for those curious about tequila’s origins, lovers of authentic experiences, and anyone eager to see a different side of Jalisco.

From the lush landscapes of Los Altos to the historic streets of Tepatitlán, this three-hour journey packs a lot of flavor—literally and figuratively. We love that it balances guided tours with free time to soak in local sights, plus the chance to taste real tequila straight from the source. One thing to consider is that the tour is about 3 hours long, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a bit of bus travel and walking. If you’re a fan of spirits, culture, and authentic Mexican cuisine, this trip is likely to hit the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic tequila tastings at two distilleries, showcasing both traditional and premium brands.
• Insightful guided tours of agave fields and distilleries, revealing the process behind tequila production.
• Charming exploration of Tepatitlán’s historic streets, giving a taste of local life.
• Inclusive meal at Ocho Agaves restaurant, where Mexican dishes are paired with tequila.
• Comfortable transportation from Guadalajara with a small, manageable group.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour begins with a convenient pickup from the Hotel Fiesta Americana Guadalajara in the Minerva area. From there, you’ll hop into a private van for about 1.5 hours as you leave the city behind and enter the Los Altos de Jalisco region. Expect scenic views and a landscape filled with green hills and sprawling agave fields—a photographer’s paradise and vital part of Mexico’s tequila story.

Visiting the Agave and Tequila Distilleries

Once you arrive, your first stop is Hacienda Tequila Ocho, renowned for its craftsmanship blending the ancestral and modern techniques. Here, you’ll see the entire process, from the jima (harvesting) of agave to the distillation in shiny stills. The tour emphasizes the art and science behind tequila, helping you understand what makes each bottle special. Visitors often comment on the clarity and authenticity of the experience—expect to see stone ovens and barrels that have been part of the process for generations.

Next, you’ll visit the first factory where tequila was historically distilled: La Rojeña de José Cuervo. This iconic site lets you walk through the historic production area, with opportunities to taste cooked agave and freshly distilled tequila—an experience that reveals the raw essence of this famous spirit.

Exploring Tepatitlán

Following the distillery visits, you’ll have free time to explore Tepatitlán, a town known for its charming streets and vibrant local scene. This opportunity allows for a slow stroll, where you can absorb the local architecture, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the atmosphere. Reviews mention the town’s quaint charm and its role as a hub for tequila producers—adding authenticity to your trip.

The Culinary Experience

A highlight of the tour is the lunch at Ocho Agaves restaurant. Here, you’ll indulge in traditional Mexican dishes, each paired with different tequilas. The menu pays tribute to local gastronomy, with a focus on flavorful, well-crafted dishes. Many reviews praise the meal as a perfect complement to the tastings, creating a sensory feast that rounds out the experience.

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Scenic Stops and Return

On the way back, expect scenic views and quick photo stops, giving you a chance to capture some memorable moments. After about three hours, you’ll be transported back to Guadalajara, with enough time to reflect on your newfound tequila knowledge.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Fiesta Americana Guadalajara in Minerva.

• Van ride (1.5 hours): Smooth, air-conditioned transport through scenic landscapes.
• Guided tour of Hacienda Tequila Ocho (20 minutes): Focused on the agave to bottle process.
• Extended tour of the distillery (1 hour): Deeper insight into traditional and modern techniques.
• Sightseeing in Tepatitlán (2 hours): A chance to explore and enjoy local sights.
• Photo stops and scenic views (total 40 minutes): Perfect moments for photos and taking in the landscape.
• Visit La Rojeña and tasting (1.5 hours): Learn about the origins of tequila.
• Return to Guadalajara: Arrive back at the hotel, having experienced a well-rounded day.

The Experience From Travelers

Reviews reflect a high satisfaction rate, with a 4.8 rating from many happy participants. “I loved the way the tour combined education with tasting,” one reviewer states, emphasizing the informative nature of the visits. Others appreciate the small group size and the chance to ask questions during the distillery tours.

A common theme among positive reviews is the authenticity of the experience. Many travelers appreciated visiting actual production sites rather than just touristy outlets. The local town exploration adds a personal touch, breaking up the day and giving cultural context.

Some noted that the tour lasts about 3 hours, which is manageable for most but might be a long half-day for those with tight schedules. Others mentioned the menu at Ocho Agaves as a highlight—authentic dishes paired with quality tequila, making for a memorable meal.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is priced for value, considering the visits, tastings, and meal included. The transportation is comfortable, and the group size keeps it intimate enough for personal interaction. It’s worth noting that comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s some walking and standing, especially at the distilleries and in Tepatitlán.

Booking flexibility is a plus: you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand—great for flexible travel plans. The tour operates with a minimum of 3 participants, so if your group is small, you might want to check availability early.

Children under 12 are not permitted, making it more suited for adult travelers interested in spirits and culture. Accessibility is somewhat limited—some areas are accessible but might require assistance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those who want a taste of authentic Mexican culture beyond the usual tourist spots. If you’re interested in learning about tequila production firsthand, enjoying beautiful landscapes, and having a delicious meal, this tour offers good value.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or young children, given the walking involved and alcohol tastings. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, scenic, and educational day focused on local craftsmanship and flavor, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

The “Secrets of the Highlands Tequila Route” tour offers a well-balanced mix of education, culture, and flavor that captures the true essence of Jalisco’s most famous export. It’s a chance to see tequila’s roots, explore small towns, and enjoy some delicious Mexican cuisine—all in a manageable three-hour window.

While it’s an active experience with some walking and bus rides, the small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it engaging and personal. If you value authenticity and learning, this tour promises a memorable glimpse into Mexico’s tequila heritage, perfect for adults eager to deepen their appreciation of this iconic spirit.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation, visits, tastings, and meal.

What is the meeting point?
The meeting point is Fiesta Americana Guadalajara in the Minerva area, at coordinates 20.673330307006836, -103.38860321044922.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, your journey is made in a comfortable van, with a 1.5-hour ride from Guadalajara to the tequila region.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Are children allowed?
No, children under 12 are not permitted on this tour.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, cash, a credit card for purchases, and wear comfortable clothes suitable for walking.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Some areas are accessible, but mobility issues may limit participation; a companion may be necessary.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, guided visits, tastings at two distilleries, a traditional Mexican meal, and scenic stops.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, with live guides.

This tour offers a thoroughly enjoyable and authentic glimpse into tequila’s heartland, perfect for adventurous spirits and curious minds alike.

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