Adventure brief
Casa Herradura y ex hacienda San Jose del Refugio desde Guadalajara
Journey from Guadalajara to the historic Hacienda Casa Herradura and vibrant town of Tequila with Aventurate por Jalisco. Discover tequila-making secrets, savor tastings, and walk through heritage sites on this six-hour cultural escape.
Aventurate por Jalisco offers an immersive six-hour cultural and sensory journey from Guadalajara to the heart of tequila country. This trip leads you to Hacienda Casa Herradura in Amatitán, a historic site dating back to 1870 where traditional tequila production meets modern craft. The tour blends history, craft, and local flavor seamlessly.
Guests start with round-trip transport from Guadalajara, leaving the bustle of the city for the agave fields and century-old architecture of the Ex Hacienda San José del Refugio — a designated World Heritage site with beautifully preserved colonial structures that open a window into Jalisco’s agricultural past. Inside Casa Herradura’s working distillery, a certified guide takes you through the intricate mezcal-making process, from harvesting mature blue agave piñas to cooking, fermenting, and finally distilling. The experience culminates in curated tastings of distinct tequila varieties alongside a sampling of cooked agave.
These tastings illustrate how subtle shifts in production influence tequila’s robust flavor profiles. The tour’s second half invites guests into the vibrant town of Tequila, where time slows down among colorful streets, artisan shops, and the iconic Santiago Apóstol Church. Visitors get free time to browse local crafts, sample traditional fare, or visit landmarks such as the José Cuervo souvenir shop.
What sets this tour apart is its intimate focus on authentic cultural immersion guided by expert knowledge, contrasted with mass-market experiences. The walkable hacienda grounds and charming village center blend outdoor exploration with a tactile connection to Mexico’s rich agricultural and spiritual heritage. Aventurate por Jalisco’s boutique approach makes this one of the most engaging ways to understand tequila’s soul while soaking in Jalisco’s special landscape and traditions.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear comfortable walking shoesessential
The tour includes walking through hacienda grounds and the town of Tequila, so sturdy shoes are essential.
- 02Bring sun protectionessential
Use a hat or sunscreen to guard against strong sun exposure during outdoor portions of the tour.
- 03Carry Mexican pesosinfo
Most shops and vendors in Tequila prefer pesos; cash is more widely accepted than dollars.
- 04Hydrate before and after tastingwarning
Keep water handy to stay hydrated, especially when sampling tequila varieties.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking through the hacienda grounds and Tequila town streets.
EssentialSun hat or cap
Protects from strong sunlight during outdoor parts of the tour.
spring|summer|fallEssentialSunscreen
Prevents sunburn during extended time outdoors.
spring|summer|fallEssentialWater bottle
Keeps you hydrated, especially during tequila tastings and warm weather.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The old agave fields surrounding Casa Herradura offer quiet photo opportunities., Visit small artisan workshops in Tequila for handmade crafts beyond the main tourist shops.
Local fauna
Hummingbirds often flit among the agave flowers., Local lizards can be spotted basking on stone walls of the hacienda.
Historic heritage
Casa Herradura was established in 1870 and remains a cornerstone of traditional tequila production; the hacienda itself stands as a preserved monument to Jalisco’s agricultural legacy.
Mindful exploration
Efforts are underway to protect agave crops from overharvesting and to promote sustainable tourism that respects the cultural landscape and local communities.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- The front courtyard of Casa Herradura, Historic structures at Ex Hacienda San José, Colorful streets of Tequila town
- Subjects
- Agave plants and fields, Colonial hacienda architecture, Traditional town scenes and church exterior
- Best times
- Early morning, Golden hour before sunset, Overcast midday for balanced lighting
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transport from Guadalajara to the hacienda and Tequila town is included.
Are meals included in this experience?
No, meals are not included, but there is free time in Tequila town where you can purchase food.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is appropriate for all ages, though tequila tasting is for adults only.
How much walking is involved?
Expect moderate walking across the hacienda grounds and town; comfortable shoes are recommended.
Can I buy souvenirs on the tour?
Yes, there is time allotted to shop for souvenirs in Tequila’s central stores.
Are there any language requirements?
The guided tour is led by a certified expert who speaks Spanish; check availability for English-speaking guides.