Guadalajara to Tequila: Agave Fields & Jose Cuervo Distillery Day Trip

Summary

Walk agave fields taste tequila in Jalisco’s heart with a local guide

You’ll walk sun-warmed agave fields near Tequila with a local guide, watch jimadores harvest by hand, tour Latin America’s oldest distillery for tastings, then explore Tequila’s lively streets and market before heading back to Guadalajara—probably still thinking about that smoky-sweet flavor or a joke you heard over lunch.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit it: I thought I knew tequila. But standing there in the blue-green agave fields outside Tequila, Jalisco, I realized I’d never even seen an agave up close. Our guide, Mariana, handed me a piece of the raw piña—sticky sweet and fibrous—and laughed when I made a face. The jimador slicing through those giant plants moved so fast I almost missed the moment he popped out the heart. There was this earthy smell—like rain on warm stone mixed with something green and sharp. Even if you’re not a morning person, that first hour wakes you up.

The drive from Guadalajara wasn’t long (maybe an hour?), but it felt like we’d landed somewhere totally different. At La Rojeña—the Jose Cuervo distillery—Mariana led us past old brick ovens and copper stills. She explained how they blend old-school techniques with modern gear; apparently, some of these machines are older than my dad. Tasting time was a surprise—I expected firewater but found myself swirling and sniffing like some wannabe sommelier. The extra-aged stuff? Smooth as caramel, but with this weird smoky kick. I probably embarrassed myself asking for seconds.

Later we wandered into Tequila town itself, which is louder and brighter than photos show. The Cleofas Mota Market smelled like fried masa and citrus; vendors called out names I couldn’t pronounce (Li laughed when I tried to say “chile en nogada”—I butchered it). We had lunch in a little spot off the plaza—can’t remember the name, but their mole sauce was so good I nearly licked my plate. By the time we piled back into the van for Guadalajara, my shirt smelled faintly of roasted agave and street food. Still does, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tequila tour: agave, distillery, town

• Pick up from hotel
• Travel to agave fields
• Explore agave fields with jimador
• Visit La Rojeña distillery
• Taste various José Cuervo tequilas
• Lunch and guided tour in Tequila town
• Shopping and exploring historic streets
• Return to Guadalajara

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Guadalajara to Tequila?

The tour lasts about 6-7 hours including travel time between Guadalajara and Tequila.

Is hotel pickup included for this tequila tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from selected hotels in Guadalajara.

Do you visit actual agave fields on this day trip?

Yes, you visit Mundo Cuervo’s agave fields outside Tequila with a guide and jimador demonstration.

What tequilas do you taste at Jose Cuervo Distillery?

You’ll sample white, reposado (rested), aged, and extra-aged tequilas during your visit.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No set lunch is included but there’s free time to eat in downtown Tequila at your own pace.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children can join but only adults 18+ can participate in tequila tastings; infant seats are available if needed.

Can you shop for tequila brands in Tequila town?

Yes, there’s free time to shop for various tequila brands or souvenirs in town after the distillery tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from selected Guadalajara hotels, transport by air-conditioned minivan to Tequila’s agave fields with a guided jimador demo, entry to La Rojeña (the Jose Cuervo distillery) for tastings of several tequilas, plus free time to explore or have lunch before returning to your hotel in the afternoon.