The José Cuervo Express Travel Guide: From Guadalajara to Tequila
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All aboard the José Cuervo Express, Mexico’s legendary luxury train journey from Guadalajara to Tequila. 🚂✨ This unforgettable ride blends colonial charm, agave field scenery, and authentic cultural experiences—complete with tastings, live mariachi, and elegant service. In this comprehensive travel guide, discover what to expect onboard, the best places to stay, and how to make the most of this scenic adventure through Jalisco’s tequila country.
The José Cuervo Express blends rail travel with Mexico’s deep agave traditions. Departing from Guadalajara, the train glides through endless blue agave fields toward the town of Tequila — accompanied by mariachi, cocktails, and panoramic views of the Jalisco countryside.
I boarded in the morning and watched golden light spread across the fields as the train picked up rhythm. By the time we arrived at the distillery, the entire car was singing along with the band.
“Tracks, Terrain, Timeless Journeys.”
🏨 Where to Stay
- 🌿 Matices Hotel de Barricas (Tequila) — stay in barrel-shaped rooms surrounded by agave.
- 🥂 Casa Salles Hotel Boutique — a luxurious option with a spa and easy train access.
📅 Best time to ride: November–May for golden sunsets over agave country.
✨ Insider Tip: Take the train to Tequila and return by sunset bus — you’ll see the landscape in two different lights.
“Magic. Color. Mexico Awaits.”
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Click below to see our other urban and transit treks throughout Latin America.
🇲🇽 Important Things to Know About Traveling to Mexico
Be prepared before visiting Mexico with key insights on language, money, connectivity, and cultural etiquette.
Language
- Spanish is Mexico’s official language, though English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, resorts, and international hubs like Cancún, Los Cabos, and Mexico City. In rural regions and local markets, Spanish (and sometimes Indigenous languages such as Nahuatl or Maya) are more common. Learning a few essential phrases—por favor, gracias, buenos días—goes a long way in showing respect and connection.
Currency
- The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), typically shown with the “$” symbol. Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1 000 pesos, while coins range from 1 to 20 pesos. Most major cards are accepted, but some small restaurants, markets, and taxis prefer cash. Always confirm whether prices are listed in pesos or U.S. dollars to avoid confusion.
Safety
- Mexico is generally welcoming and safe for visitors who stay aware and informed. Tourist zones like Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Oaxaca, and Mérida are known for their hospitality and police presence. Use registered taxis or rideshare apps, avoid displaying valuables, and check local travel advisories before venturing into remote areas. Trust your instincts—Mexican warmth and kindness shine brightest when you travel mindfully.
Accessing Money
- ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available in cities, airports, and shopping centers, dispensing pesos directly. Use ATMs inside banks for added security. Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX are broadly accepted, though smaller hotels and cafés may charge a card fee. Tipping (10–15 %) is customary in restaurants, and cash tips are appreciated for hotel staff, guides, and drivers.
Power
- Mexico uses Type A and Type B power sockets, the same as the United States and Canada, with a standard voltage of 127 V and frequency of 60 Hz. Visitors from North America typically won’t need an adapter, while travelers from Europe, Asia, or South America should bring a universal plug and possibly a voltage converter for hair tools or appliances.
Wi-Fi & Internet
- Wi-Fi is accessible in most hotels, cafés, and airports, though speeds vary outside urban areas. Major telecom providers—Telcel, AT&T México, and Movistar—offer strong 4G coverage across cities and resorts. For longer stays, consider buying a local SIM card or using an eSIM like Yesim to stay connected while exploring Mexico’s beaches, ruins, and pueblos mágicos.
Visas & Entry Requirements
- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and most EU countries can enter Mexico visa-free for tourism up to 180 days. Travelers must complete an immigration form (FMM) upon arrival—some airlines include it in ticketing. Always check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Keep your FMM card safe; you’ll need it when departing the country.
At Jet Set LatAM, our mission is to bring the luxury spotlight to Latin America — celebrating the vibrant destinations, heritage, and artistry that define this region’s quiet elegance. From wine valleys in Argentina to colonial cities in Mexico, every journey we share is rooted in mindful travel and authentic cultural connection.
It all began in Guadalajara, the creative heart of Jalisco, where our stay at the award-winning La Perla BnB sparked our devotion to Latin American boutique stays, exceptional hospitality, and meaningful storytelling. That inspiration continues to guide everything we create at Jet Set LatAM — a modern travel platform dedicated to showcasing Latin luxury, signature stays, and immersive cultural experiences.
Explore curated fashion, beauty, and travel collections inspired by our journeys on ShopMy and LTK, featuring the designers, rituals, and travel essentials that embody the spirit of quiet luxury across Latin America.
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