Guadalajara: Lake Chapala and Ajijic Day Trip With Boat Trip

Visitors to Guadalajara can embark on an enchanting day trip that takes them to the stunning Lake Chapala and the charming town of Ajijic. This tour promises culture, captivating sights, and a chance to savor authentic flavors. From exploring a renowned tequila distillery to cruising the serene waters of the lake, this adventure offers a well-rounded experience that showcases the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can delve deeper into the area’s captivating stories and local traditions.

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Key Points

The tour includes a visit to Vicente Fernandez’s ranch, a tequila distillery tour with tastings, and a boat cruise on Lake Chapala.
Travelers can explore the charming town of Ajijic, known as a "magic town," and enjoy authentic seafood dishes.
The tour duration is 8 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
A live guide provides commentary in Spanish and English, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
The tour has a high customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the guide, transportation, and value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Booking Information

What does this day trip from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala and Ajijic entail?

The tour is priced from $38.76 per person and lasts 8 hours. It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Priced at $38.76 per person, this 8-hour tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.

A live guide provides commentary in Spanish and English. The tour is wheelchair accessible, with the meeting point at the Roundabout outside Hotel Fiesta Americana of Minerva.

Highlights include visiting a tequila distillery, a seafood lunch, a boat cruise on Lake Chapala, and exploring the charming town of Ajijic.

Looking for more options in Guadalajara? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

After embarking on the day trip, visitors first stop at Vicente Fernandez’s ranch and store for 45 minutes, offering a glimpse into the life of the renowned Mexican singer.

Next, the group tours the Casa Calera tequila distillery, learning about artisanal tequila production and enjoying tastings for 70 minutes.

Lunch at Mariscos El Carnal seafood restaurant follows, where guests can savor authentic local cuisine at their own expense over 1.5 hours.

A 30-minute boat cruise on Lake Chapala includes a complimentary drink, and an hour is spent exploring the charming magic town of Ajijic and its boardwalk in Chapala.

Cultural Experiences

As visitors embark on this Guadalajara day trip, they enjoy the region’s rich cultural experiences. At the Casa Calera tequila distillery, guests learn about the artisanal craft of tequila production through an informative tour and tasting. The seafood lunch at Mariscos El Carnal offers a chance to savor authentic local cuisine. During the boat cruise on Lake Chapala, travelers enjoy scenic vistas and refreshing beverages. Strolling through the charming town of Ajijic, they discover its vibrant streets, local shops, and captivating ambiance. These cultural touchpoints enhance the overall journey, providing a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage.

| Cultural Experiences | Description |

| — | — |

| Tequila Distillery Tour | Learn about artisanal tequila production |

| Local Cuisine | Savor authentic seafood dishes at Mariscos El Carnal |

| Boat Cruise | Enjoy scenic views and refreshments on Lake Chapala |

| Ajijic Exploration | Discover the charm of this "magic town" |

| Regional Heritage | Gain a deeper appreciation for the area’s cultural roots |

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Guadalajara day trip, awarding it an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 109 reviews.

The tour guide Javier received exceptional ratings of 4.8/5 for his knowledge and friendliness. Equally impressive were the transportation and value for money, both rated 4.8/5.

Reviewers highlighted the tour’s cultural experiences, including learning about artisanal tequila production and sampling authentic local cuisine. The scenic boat cruise on Lake Chapala and exploring the charming town of Ajijic were additional highlights.

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What to Bring and Important Information

When going on the Guadalajara day trip, visitors are recommended to bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes.

The itinerary’s subject to change, so travelers should stay flexible. The tour includes transportation, a guide, attraction entry, alcoholic drinks, tequila tastings, soft drinks, and water.

However, the meal at the seafood restaurant is at the traveler’s own expense.

It’s important to keep in mind that the tour is wheelchair accessible, providing accessibility for all guests.

There's plenty more to explore in Guadalajara

Discovering Vicente Fernandez’s Ranch and Store

What better way to kick off the Guadalajara day trip than with a visit to Vicente Fernandez’s renowned ranch and store?

Guests will marvel at the legendary Mexican singer’s vast property, taking in the stunning scenery and learning about his storied career.

Peruse the store’s shelves, stocked with memorabilia, CDs, and apparel – the perfect souvenir.

The 45-minute stop provides a glimpse into the life of this iconic figure, setting the stage for the rest of the immersive cultural experience.

With the guide’s insights, visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for Fernandez’s enduring legacy.

Exploring the Casa Calera Tequila Distillery

The Casa Calera tequila distillery offers a captivating glimpse into the age-old art of artisanal tequila production.

Visitors embark on a guided tour, learning about the intricate process from harvesting the agave to distilling the spirit. They’ll witness skilled workers cutting the piñas, roasting them in traditional ovens, and fermenting the juice.

The highlight is the tasting, where guests sample the distillery’s premium offerings, savoring the nuanced flavors and aromas.

With its rich history and time-honored techniques, the Casa Calera experience provides an authentic taste of Mexican culture and craftsmanship.

Enjoying the Boat Cruise and Visiting Ajijic and Chapala

After exploring the captivating tequila distillery, the tour then takes visitors on a boat cruise across the serene waters of Lake Chapala.

The 30-minute cruise includes a complimentary drink and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Following the boat ride, the group ventures into the charming town of Ajijic, known for its:

Colorful, cobblestone streets
Vibrant art galleries and boutiques
Lively central plaza with local vendors

The final stop on the itinerary is the town of Chapala, where visitors can stroll along the scenic boardwalk and take in the tranquil atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Suitable Is This Tour for Families With Young Children?

The tour seems moderately suitable for families with young children. It includes a boat cruise and visits to a tequila distillery, which may not be ideal for young kids. However, the scenic lake and town of Ajijic could be enjoyable for families.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal Options Available?

The tour does not specify vegetarian or gluten-free meal options. However, the seafood restaurant may be able to accommodate special dietary needs with advance notice. Guests are advised to inquire about menu options when booking the tour.

Can I Purchase Tequila at the Distillery to Take Home?

Yes, visitors can purchase tequila at the Casa Calera distillery to take home. The tour includes a tequila tasting, and the on-site store offers a selection of artisanal tequila bottles for purchase.

Is There an Option to Extend the Time Spent in Ajijic or Chapala?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the time spent in Ajijic or Chapala. However, customers can explore these towns at their own pace after the scheduled tour activities. The itinerary’s duration is fixed at 8 hours.

Can I Book This Tour in My Native Language if It’s Not English or Spanish?

According to the tour details, the tour is offered in Spanish and English only. There’s no mention of the option to book the tour in other languages. Travelers who don’t speak Spanish or English may need to arrange for their own translator.

The Sum Up

This day trip to Lake Chapala and Ajijic offers a captivating blend of culture and natural beauty. From the iconic ranch of Vicente Fernandez to the tequila distillery tour and serene boat cruise, this adventure promises an enriching experience. Savor local cuisine, explore the charming town of Ajijic, and marvel at the stunning landscapes of this picturesque region near Guadalajara.