Tequila Day Trip from Guadalajara with Jose Cuervo Express Train

Tequila Day Trip from Guadalajara with Jose Cuervo Express Train: A Detailed Review

Travel enthusiasts looking to combine scenic rail travel with a taste of Mexican culture and spirits might find this tour particularly appealing. The Tequila Day Trip from Guadalajara offers a well-rounded experience, blending picturesque views with culture, making it more than just a simple day out.

What we love most is the opportunity to ride in the luxurious Jose Cuervo Express Premium Wagon, and to enjoy guided tastings with expert tasters that make tequila education accessible and fun. Plus, the inclusion of distillery tours, agave harvesting demos, and a lively Mexican show ensures a true cultural feast.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. Some reviews mention variable quality of drinks, occasional language barriers, and the importance of being prepared for a long, full day—sometimes with organizational hiccups. Still, this tour is best suited for those with an interest in tequila, Mexican culture, or scenic train journeys, and who appreciate good value packed into a memorable experience.

Key Points

• Luxurious train ride in the Premium Wagon enhances the overall experience.
• Expert-guided tastings and distillery tours offer authentic insights into tequila production.
• The tour includes cultural entertainment, adding a festive atmosphere.
• It’s a full-day adventure, so be prepared for an 11-hour experience.
• Available at a mid-range price, offering considerable value considering the included activities.
• The tour suits both tequila enthusiasts and travelers seeking a scenic, cultural day trip.

Introduction

For those exploring Mexico’s vibrant west, a trip to Tequila from Guadalajara via the Jose Cuervo Express is an engaging way to combine scenic beauty with cultural discovery. This detailed tour review aims to shed light on what you can expect, from the luxurious train ride to the lively tequila distilleries.

We’re genuinely impressed by how this experience manages to blend comfort, education, and entertainment into one day. The fact that you get to enjoy guided tastings with a master tequilero and sit back in a plush Premium Wagon on the train makes it stand apart from many other day trips.

One of the best aspects? The stunning views of the agave fields—an endless sea of spiky plants—that stretch across the landscape, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop for your journey. Plus, the cultural shows, mariachi music, and traditional toast bring a lively, authentic feel to the day.

That said, it’s important to remember this is a long, full-day tour. Some reviews mention the variable quality of drinks and organizational quirks, so being flexible and prepared can help make the most of it. This trip is ideal for tequila lovers, culture seekers, and train enthusiasts alike, looking for a memorable, all-inclusive experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

The appeal of this tour lies in its combination of scenic rail travel and culture. Traveling in the Premium Wagon means you get a comfortable ride with snacks and drinks, making it feel more exclusive than a standard bus tour.

The distillery visits take you inside Mexico’s most iconic spirit—tequila—allowing you to see the process firsthand and taste a variety of premium brands. The guided tastings and expert explanations ensure you’re not just drinking blindly but gaining insight into what makes each tequila unique.

And then, there’s the added entertainment: lively Mariachi performances and a traditional Mexican show that add a festive vibe, rounding out the cultural aspect. The free time in Tequila town gives you a chance to wander at your own pace, browse local shops, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Agave Landscape & Harvesting Demonstration

Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Guadalajara, followed by a comfortable transfer by air-conditioned coach towards Tequila. Expect to see the iconic agave fields, which are the heart of tequila production.

The highlight here is the “jima” demonstration, showing how the plant is traditionally harvested. This is a rare glimpse into an age-old method, and it’s an excellent photo opportunity. Many reviewers mention the beauty of the landscape—rolling hills covered in agave—which makes for some stunning views that set the tone for the day.

The admission fee for this part is included, giving you time to soak in the scenery and learn about the plant that fuels Mexico’s most famous export.

Stop 2: Fábrica La Rojena & Mundo Cuervo®

Next, you board the Jose Cuervo Express Premium Wagon, a highlight for most travelers. The luxurious train ride transforms a simple trip into a special event, complete with Mexican snacks, cocktails, and even a lively lottery game—Mexican bingo—which adds a fun, interactive element.

Once at the distillery, the focus shifts to tequila production, with a guided tour of Mundo Cuervo®. Here, you get a virtual explanation of the process, plus a walk-through of the distillery’s facilities. These moments are particularly engaging for those interested in the craftsmanship behind the spirit.

The guided tasting offers a chance to sample tequila Tradicional® and Jose Cuervo® Especial, with reviews praising the educational aspect—many comment that the guide’s explanations are clear and informative.

A cultural highlight is the Mariachi and folkloric show, which infuses the tour with lively Mexican traditions. The traditional toast with premium tequila encapsulates the celebratory spirit of the day.

Lunch & Free Time in Tequila Town

After the distillery tour, you’ll have free time to explore the town of Tequila. Here, you can visit the Centro Cultural Juan Beckmann Gallardo Museum, stroll through the lively streets, or grab a bite at a local restaurant (lunch is not included but many find it easy to find tasty options).

Some reviews mention the longer-than-expected schedule but agree that the small window gives just enough time to soak up the town’s charm without feeling rushed.

Return Journey & Relaxation

Boarding the train back to Guadalajara marks the final leg of the tour. You’ll enjoy cocktails made with tequila Tradicional® and Jose Cuervo® Especial again, paired with snacks and lively company.

The views as you return are spectacular, especially at sunset. Many travelers mention how the scenic train ride in the evening is one of the most memorable parts of the experience, offering a perfect backdrop for winding down after a full day.

Once in Guadalajara, a bus will whisk you back to your hotel, completing this 11-hour adventure.

Transport & Group Size

Transport is provided from central Guadalajara hotels, with limited pick-up areas—be sure to confirm your location. The air-conditioned coach makes the journey comfortable, and the train ride in the Premium Wagon enhances the feeling of exclusivity.

The tour is designed for up to 300 travelers, meaning some days can feel busy, but the large group size helps keep costs reasonable. Reviews suggest that the group dynamic varies—some find it lively and fun, others feel the experience can be a bit crowded or disorganized at times.

Price & Value

At $275 per person, the tour offers good value considering the activities, transportation, and entertainment included. It’s a comprehensive package—covering distillery visits, tastings, cultural shows, and scenic train rides—which would be costly if booked separately.

Keep in mind, lunch is not included, so budget for that separately. For many, the experience more than justifies the price, especially when considering the unique train journey and authentic culture.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews (rating 4.4/5) are positive, praising knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious tequila cocktails. Travelers love the train ride itself, describing it as “the cherry on top” and “unforgettable.”

Many reviewers highlight the friendly staff and the entertainment, with some describing it as “amazing,” “fun,” and “worth every penny.” The cultural show and mariachi performances** receive particular praise for adding an authentic Mexican flavor.

However, some reviews point out organizational issues, like delayed schedules or poor drink quality—especially on the train. A few mention language barriers during certain parts of the tour, so if you don’t speak Spanish, it’s worth noting to prepare accordingly.

The most common criticisms involve variable service quality and the long day, with some suggesting it requires good planning and stamina. Still, most agree that the overall experience is memorable and worth the cost.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour excels for tequila lovers, those curious about Mexican culture, and travelers who want to experience scenic train travel combined with hands-on distillery visits. The luxurious train ride and lively entertainment make it an enjoyable day for those seeking a festive, immersive experience.

If you’re after authentic insights, beautiful landscapes, and a taste of local traditions, then this tour should be on your list. But if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day or are traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options.

In summary, for adventurous spirits craving cultural richness and scenic beauty, this trip offers a fulfilling slice of Mexico’s tequila heritage, wrapped in comfort and celebration.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 11 hours, including pickup, travel, visits, and return.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned coach transfer from your hotel to Tequila and back, plus the scenic train ride in the Jose Cuervo Express Premium Wagon.

What is the price?
It costs $275 per person, which covers most activities, tastings, and entertainment, but excludes lunch and personal expenses.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is free time for you to explore local dining options in Tequila town.

Can I choose between different itineraries?
Yes, the tour offers two full-day itineraries, including options like the sunset train ride, which many reviews highlight as especially memorable.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 300 travelers, so expect a lively, social atmosphere.

Are alcohol samples available throughout the tour?
Yes, there are tastings during the distillery visits and on the train, with cocktails prepared using various Jose Cuervo brands, but some reviews note inconsistent drink quality.

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Most reviews mention that guides do speak English, but some have experienced language barriers, so it’s advisable to confirm that your guide will accommodate your language needs.

In essence, this full-day journey from Guadalajara offers a delightful mix of scenic views, cultural entertainment, and tequila education, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting to see and taste Mexico’s most iconic spirit in style.