Guadalajara: Charrería Heritage Tour & Horseback Ride Tequila

Summary

Meet Jalisco charros, ride horses, taste tequila and mariachi

You’ll step into Jalisco’s charrería world—touching old saddles in a living museum, meeting real charros, learning to lasso (or trying), riding a Quarter Horse with your own charro hat, then sharing tequila and music under wide Mexican skies. It’s lively, hands-on, and surprisingly moving if you let it be.

What’s the experience like?

I was late because I got the taxi driver who insisted he knew a shortcut—he didn’t. So we rolled up to the “Cathedral of Charrería” just as the mariachi was tuning up (honestly, that sound is half the reason I wanted to come). Our guide, Don Luis, waved us over with a grin and a hat so wide it shaded three people. He started right in with stories about his grandfather riding these same grounds. The museum part wasn’t stuffy at all—there were old saddles you could touch and photos where everyone looked impossibly proud or dusty or both.

The stables smelled like hay and leather and something warm I couldn’t quite place. Don Luis let us meet one of the Quarter Horses—he called her “La Güera” and she nuzzled my sleeve for treats. He showed us how to loop a lasso (I failed spectacularly; he laughed but said I had “spirit”). There was this moment where he explained why charros wear those embroidered jackets—not just for show but so their mothers would recognize them in the arena. For some reason that stuck with me.

Then came the part I’d been nervous about: actually getting on a horse. They gave me a helmet (not exactly traditional but probably smart) and helped me up—turns out horses are taller than they look from the ground. Riding around with that heavy charro hat felt surreal; I kept thinking I’d drop it but somehow it stayed put. The sun was sharp and everything looked brighter from up there—I could hear the clink of spurs and someone humming off-key nearby. Afterward, we all gathered by the ring for tequila (just one shot, promise) while the mariachi played something slow and sweet. I didn’t expect to feel so much like part of someone else’s tradition, even just for an afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Charro culture and traditions

• Arrive and meet a true charro
• Visit the Charrería museum
• Learn about Quarter Horses and stables
• Practice lasso techniques
• Receive horseback riding instructions
• Ride a horse wearing a charro hat
• Celebrate with tequila and mariachi music

Top questions

Is this charrería tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, basic instructions are provided for horseback riding and lasso use.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Infants and small children can join in a pram or stroller; service animals are also allowed.

Is tequila tasting included?

Yes, tequila tasting is included for guests 18 years or older.

What should I wear for the day trip?

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for stables; helmets are provided.

How long does the tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes museum visit, stables, activities, and celebration.

Is pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

Are there any health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues or dust allergies.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water to keep you cool in the Jalisco sun, a riding helmet for safety during your horseback adventure—even if it doesn’t match your charro hat—and a proper tequila tasting at the end (for those 18+). Everything happens alongside welcoming local guides who share their stories as much as their traditions.