Lake Chapala & Ajijic: Tequila Tasting, Catamaran & Food Tour

Summary

Lakeside flavors, tequila aromas & Ajijic’s colors from Guadalajara

You’ll taste small-batch tequila near Lake Chapala, eat fresh seafood by the water, cruise Mexico’s largest lake by catamaran with music playing, and wander Ajijic’s painted streets—all with easy pickup from Guadalajara and a local guide who makes you feel like part of the crew.

What’s the experience like?

We piled into the van in Guadalajara right on time—still half-awake, honestly. Our guide, Martín, had this easy way of making everyone feel like we’d known him for ages. First stop was Vicente Fernández’s ranch. I’m not even a huge fan of ranchera music, but seeing the hats and boots lined up in the shop felt like peeking into someone’s real life. Didn’t get to go inside the actual ranch (apparently it depends on the day), but just standing by those gates with locals chatting nearby—it set a tone for the day that I didn’t expect.

The tequila distillery outside Chapala was next. “Los Magos,” Martín said with a grin—he claimed their reposado would “change how you feel about tequila forever.” Not sure if that’s true, but after a couple tastings (the smoky one lingered on my tongue), I started to see what he meant. The smell inside—sweet agave and something earthy—kind of stuck to my shirt all afternoon. We learned about how they roast the piñas in these old ovens; Li laughed when I tried to say ‘fermentation’ in Spanish—probably butchered it.

Lunch at Mariscos del Carnal in San Juan Cosalá was loud and messy in the best way. The shrimp tacos were so fresh they almost tasted like lake water (in a good way—I swear). They handed out complimentary drinks before we climbed onto this catamaran for a ride across Lake Chapala. The boat had music playing—old cumbias and some pop—and there was this wind that made my hair stick straight up. Looking out over that huge lake, with pelicans skimming low over the water… I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Ajijic came after—the “Magic Town,” Martín called it, though he said it only got that title recently. The cobblestone streets were full of color: murals everywhere, bright doors, people waving from shaded patios. We wandered for a while; I bought an ice cream from a woman who called me “joven” even though my knees were already sore by then. Last stop was Chapala town itself—more boardwalks, street vendors selling charales (tiny fried fish), and these dancers spinning high above on poles—the Voladores de Papantla. It felt both festive and kind of peaceful at once. Didn’t buy any souvenirs but probably should’ve grabbed one of those postcards.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Chapala, Ajijic, and Tequila Factory

• Meet at 11:00 in Guadalajara
• Stop at Vicente Fernández's ranch and store
• Tour Los Magos tequila distillery
• Enjoy tequila and liquor tastings
• Arrive at San Juan Cosalá for seafood lunch
• Boat ride on Lake Chapala with drink
• Free time in Magic Town of Ajijic
• Free time in Chapala town and boardwalk

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Lake Chapala tour?

No, but private transportation is included from a set meeting point in Guadalajara.

Are pets allowed on this day trip to Ajijic?

Yes, pets are welcome at all stops during the tour.

How long does the Lake Chapala & Ajijic tour last?

The tour lasts most of the day, starting at 11:00 am and returning in the evening.

Is lunch included on this Lake Chapala tour?

Lunch is not included in the price but there is a group stop at Mariscos del Carnal where you can order seafood at affordable prices.

Do you visit both Ajijic and Chapala towns on this trip?

Yes, you’ll have free time to explore both Ajijic and Chapala towns during the day trip.

Is there a boat ride on Lake Chapala during this tour?

Yes, a catamaran cruise on Lake Chapala is included along with a complimentary drink.

What kind of tequila tasting is offered?

You’ll visit Los Magos distillery for an artisanal tequila tasting and learn about traditional production methods.

Are infants or children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and children are welcome; infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Guadalajara (with pickup at a central meeting spot), guided visits to Vicente Fernández’s ranch shop (entry subject to availability), an artisanal tequila tasting at Los Magos distillery, lunch stop at Mariscos del Carnal (food extra), a catamaran ride on Lake Chapala with complimentary drink, plus free time to explore both Ajijic and Chapala towns before heading back in comfort.