Enjoy an unforgettable tour of Chapala with a friendly personal guide from ToursByLocals. Escape the crowds and enjoy this hidden gem on the north shore of Lake Chapala with a passionate private guide from ToursByLocals.

Lake Chapala is the biggest in México and the place to be for some magical picturesque sunsets. Nature can also be enjoyed as you stroll down main street Chapala with its many trees, plants and flowers all adding to the serene environment.

You can also take in some great views on the boardwalk.

The market is a hot bed for handicrafts but also a great chance to sample some of the best street tacos and more.

Take a short trip to the town of Ajijic, known for its art, where you'll see vibrant, colourful, murals as you take a relaxing walk on the cobblestone streets.

A flexible schedule and itinerary, your local guide will give you an all round authentic experience. Your ToursByLocals guide can customize an itinerary to make it a truly tailored experience.

Chapala

This tour allows you to visit two of the most important attraction in Mexico, Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque, Guadalajara was known by being a modern city and at the same time a colonial city established during the 16th century. In its route, we will see modern buildings as well with fountains and monuments, in the downtown area the oldest buildings are from the 16th to the 20th century. Such as Metropolitan Cathedral, Government Palace, Degollado theater, Fundadores Plaza.

Tlaquepaque the most important art and crafts center in the entire country. its craft shops are old houses of the 16th and 17th centuries we will walk to the main square and its two churches, in the colony an era for the lower social class. and the other for rich people. Also, find restaurants with Mexican haute cuisine. And female Mariachi band ( plays from 3 to 4 pm. ) at one restaurant.

Two truly Mexican places in one day!

Guadalajara & Tlaquepaque Tour

When you visit the town of Tequila, you will take in the entire array of Flavors of Mexico. You will be able to know the interesting process of planting and care of the agave plant, its uses for other products, and its work - traditional and industrial - to give life to Mexico's National Drink through complex steps that, in the end, give it its flavor, quality and texture. You will not leave these sets without first tasting some of their most famous drinks.

Visit its historical buildings, the most emblematic are the Church of La Purisima and the City Hall, which houses an interesting mural painted by a local artist that represents the emergence of Tequila from a lightning bolt that fell just in a plant agave. Visit also the distilleries where you can get closer to the history of the production of this iconic drink which over the years, has become synonymous with Mexico around the world. Enjoy the view of the impressive agave landscape, honored with the title of World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Traditions and history of Mexico's National Drink

Tequila, the Spirit of Mexico

History, Architecture and Food. Private Walking Tour of Guadalajara.

Welcome to Guadalajara! I created this experience to introduce travelers to the city where I was born and raised.

More than a regular tour I'd like to provide you with a thoughtful progression through the city, with an emphasis on history, architecture and food.

By navigating the local market, the main public plazas and the historic neighborhoods you will become immersed in the city's vibrant culture.

Get ready to discover the architecture of the plazas at a comfortable pace while being led through a detailed narration of the city's intriguing anecdotes and fascinating insights.

You will also get to embark on a culinary journey at local shops and stands that only the locals know about. Vegan and vegetarian choices are available.

By the end of our fully-immersive cultural experience you will have a wider understanding of Guadalajara and Mexico's past, present and future.

* Please contact me for customized tours or for groups of more than 2 persons.

Discover the real face of the city with a local guide!

Full Day Private Tour of Guachimontones and Tequila

Embark on a journey through the heart of Jalisco, where history meets agave magic! Explore the Tequila Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and uncover the secrets behind Mexico's iconic spirit.

Unearth Ancient Wonders: Delve into the mysteries of the Guachimontones pyramids, a testament to the ingenuity of pre-Hispanic cultures.

From Field to Flask: Witness the agave fields firsthand and learn the artisanal process of crafting tequila, from cultivation to distillation.

Taste the Difference:  Become a tequila connoisseur!  A private guide will unveil the art of proper tasting and the unique flavors of artisanal, family-owned tequilas.

Unwind in Tequila Town: Immerse yourself in the charming village of Tequila, soaking up the local culture and Mexican spirit.

Private Experience: Enjoy personalized attention with a dedicated guide and driver throughout the day. Traveling with a larger group? Contact me for special arrangements. I aim to respond to all inquiries within 8 hours.

Unveiling Tequila's Secrets: Pyramids, Agave & Artisanal Spirits

Private Full Day Tour of Guachimontones and Tequila

Guadalajara City and Tlaquepaque Shopping Full-Day Tour

Let's learn about the history of 481 years, that the buildings share with us. We can enjoy a good cold beer in the oldest cantina in Guadalajara that opened in 1921. I will share its story about a bicycle that was forgotten. We will visit Tlaquepaque (shopping for handicrafts), a beautiful place with houses from the 18th century and where one would like to spend a whole day in this Magical Town since its stops and restaurants encourage you.

We will drive and make a few stops for photos on the road and visit a Gothic Church. You will see close to downtown the technology square that offers a lot of items. After driving by, we will stop to visit the beautiful center of Guadalajara where you can see the Mexican families walking and doing their personal shopping with a pleasant climate.

After walking and enjoying the place we will have our food and then we can return to your hotel.

Church Santuario de nuestra Señora de la Soledasd

Enjoy a historical visit and some shopping with a local guide

Lake Chapala Area is known for its lush vegetation and perfect climate all year round. Lovely towns, charming galleries and shops and great restaurants. The main attraction of Chapala is without a doubt its lake and to enjoy it, we recommend that you take a walk along its boardwalk. Among handicraft shops, music, and restaurants, the place will give you beautiful views. Ajijic is famous for its art galleries, handicraft shops, various plazas, and rich restaurants with wide gastronomic offers. Even cultural and gastronomic events are held all year round. Enjoy walking between its typical cobbled streets or just an excellent coffee sitting on a bench on the Central Plaza.

Mexico's largest and most beautiful lake

Tour of Lake Chapala and Ajijic from Guadalajara

Guachimontones Rare Circular Pyramids Tour

This place is very special because of the rare circular pyramids, which we will only find in western Mexico and being exclusive to Tehuchitlan.

This ancient civilization probably developed between 800 and 200 BC, being in its time the commercial center of the area and with a population between 30 and 40 thousand inhabitants, its commercial products, mainly obsidian (crystallized volcanic rock) have been found in remote places like Peru. This place was ceremonial and residential center.
So far, approximately 10 to 15% of the total of the entire archeological area has been worked on.

In this tour we have the possibility to know three different times in Mexico, more exactly in the central part of the state of Jalisco as it is the time before the conquest with the pyramids, the time in which the Mexican territory was divided into Haciendas (Plantations) In the state of Jalisco there were 250, we have the possibility of going to have lunch at one of them, and modern times visit the town of Teuchitlan.

The Teuchitlan tradition with one of the oldest cultures in Mexico.

Guadalajara Private Day Tour with transportation

As a native Guadalajaran, I'm passionate about sharing my city's hidden gems and iconic sights. I'll take you beyond the tourist spots to discover the secret treasures, stunning architecture, and delicious flavors – all through a local's lens.

Get ready to explore iconic plazas, vibrant markets, and charming neighborhoods at your own pace, learning about the region's complex history and rich cultural heritage. 

Immerse yourself in the revolutionary spirit of Mexico at Museo Cabañas. Marvel at Jose Clemente Orozco's iconic murals, which depict the country's tumultuous social struggles. 

Culminate your journey at Mercado Libertad, Latin America's largest indoor market. Explore its three floors bursting with sights, sounds, and enticing aromas. Be prepared for a sensory overload of colorful crafts, fresh produce, and delicious food stalls, a fully-immersive experience of engagement with Guadalajara's working-class culture.

Discover the quintessential highlights with a private driver and a local guide!

Architecture & Craft Brewery - Express Walking Tour in Guadalajara

If you are into architecture and a beer enthusiast, you will love this experience.

We'll visit one of the most iconic neighbourhoods of Guadalajara, Colonia Americana, where I'll share its history with you from an architectural perspective.

We will spend about an hour and half exploring various historical buildings including residences, Churches and Museums. We will even get to take a peak into an iconic church, where my grandparents watched me sing in the choir.

Later on, we'll go to an award winning craft brewery built in a historic theatre. A few years ago I was working on a "Ruta de Cerveza" in Guadalajara - and this brewery is by far my favorite!

Here you'll learn about the brewing processes as we do a guided visit, so pour yourself a pint to enjoy as we go behind the scenes and learn how they create their different beers!

Beer Tasters in the Gastropub at the Brewery

Example of architecture within the Templo Expiatorio

Angled Facade of the Building above Mercado Via Libertad

Come stroll along Colonia Americana's architecture & taste different beers!

Private Day Tour of Tlaquepaque and Tonala

The centuries-old artisanal traditions of Tonala and Tlaquepaque have given both towns international recognition as authentically Mexican artistic enclaves and producers of refined handicrafts.

As part of this private experience, you'll get to walk in the colourful markets, charming streets and vibrant plazas of both towns to discover Mexico's artisanal culture in a relaxed and enjoyable way.

You'll admire the most majestic family-owned workshops, art galleries and boutiques, framed by a unique landscape composed of novo-hispanic and eclectic architecture. With my advice you will avoid tourist traps to visit only authentically local sites.

You'll also get a full explanation of both towns' historical contexts, which will provide you with a deeper understanding of Mexico's artistic culture.

This experience is ideal for those interested in going beyond the standard tourist trails to experience first-hand the authentic lifestyle of two working-class Mexican communities.

Chillin' with my friend from Japan outside Rodo Padilla's art gallery.

The whole process of production is 100 per-cent artisanal and handmade!

Enjoying the day in Tlaquepaque with my friends from Los Angeles!

Get ready to fall in love with this charming community.

You will admire both modern and traditional artistic styles!

Learning about one of the most refined ceramic techniques in the world: petatillo.

Tlaquepaque is one of the most charming destinations in Latin America!

This tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, families with kids, and groups of friends!

The charming architectural landscape of Tlaquepaque is highly representative of old and traditional Mexico.

Anywhere you look you will find astonishing art.

Learning about the indigenous ancestry and the colonization of Tonala!

The vibrant colors and the architecture will blow your mind!

Hand-made leather bags: another great example of the wide variety of artisanal products available!

Get ready to visit one of the most beautiful restaurants in Latin America!

Another great day with my friend from Florida!

Exploring one of the most beautiful cultural centers in Mexico: Centro Cultural El Refugio, built in the 1800s as the first mental hospital in Latin America.

Learning about ceramics from the masters of Tonala! The Bernabe family has worked the petatillo style since the mid 1800s.

Fall in love with Mexico's artistic beauty and culinary treasures!

The combination of the fascinating archaeological site of GUACHIMONTONES, full of millennial history and
TEQUILA, is the most charming town in Jalisco home to the world-famous Mexican spirit.

Entrance to the museums, distillery and tasting.

Feel the legacy of the Volcano with your local guide on a private tour from Guadalajara

Guachimontones Archaeological Site and Tequila Town

Unlike industrialized tequila factories, which utilize big machinery to quicken the process and push volume, artisanal distilleries rely on traditional techniques such as the use of stone ovens to roast the agave plants. It's all about the process and this process makes a huge difference!

Learn more about it in this fully-immersive private experience. You'll get to see, feel, taste, smell and listen the ancient secrets of artisanal tequila production.

Free unlimited tequila samples and a private tour of a family-owned distillery are included. We'll also explore the beautiful town of Tequila as we enjoy the local cuisine and taste as many tequila samples as you wish!

The experience includes guided commentary on:
1. The tequila making process
2. The proper tasting technique
3. The history of tequila
4. Current tequila industry trends

Discover the soul of Mexico's most iconic spirit in this private getaway adventure!

Private Full Day Tequila Tour

Explore Chapala and Ajijic at your own pace on a private tour just for you and your companions. This journey begins with a savory breakfast of traditional birria at a renowned highway restaurant en route from GDL.

In Chapala, delve into art and history at the old train station turned museum, learning about Chapala’s transformation from an indigenous region to an expat enclave, and the present-day viewpoints around this complex process. Then, visit the local market, church and plaza before strolling along the malecon while savoring snacks amidst stunning lake views.

A short drive leads to Ajijic, famed for its artistic atmosphere. Wander through La Floresta’s charming neighborhood and explore Ajijic’s lively boardwalk, main street, and quaint boutiques.

Discover centuries-old churches and vibrant art galleries before indulging in a delightful garden-restaurant lunch featuring local cuisine. Book your tour today and uncover the scenic beauty of these quintessentially Mexican pueblos!

Replenish yourself in this hidden gem!

Chapala and Ajijic Private Full Day Tour

The tour begins with a panoramic drive through the most emblematic areas of the City of Guadalajara

We will drive by the Minerva Fountain, Los Arcos monument, and the world-famous Colonia Americana, named the coolest neighborhood for living worldwide, with beautiful European design mansions.
Also, we will drive to the lovely Chapultepec area with many monuments and colonial mansions and the neo-gothic Expiatory Church.

Upon arrival at the Historic Downtown District, we begin a guided walking tour that includes: Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, Libertad Plaza, Plaza of the Illustrious Men of Jalisco, Plaza Tapatia, Degollado Theatre, and the fabulous Cabañas Orphanage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you are wondering if it is worth visiting Guadalajara? I'll just say, it absolutely is! So join me and discover a city of culture, art, history, and incredible architecture.

An Architectural Tour of wonderfully vibrant and diverse Guadalajara, do it with the locals!

Discover the Best Landmarks of Guadalajara

Enjoy a 3-day escorted tour of Jalisco's most iconic destinations such as Guadalajara, Tequila, Tlaquepaque, and Chapala- Ajijic.

You'll learn about the area's rich culture, history, architecture, food, and people through stops at landmarks and hidden gems, along with guided commentary.

With a multi-day tour we can combine multiple activities and attractions. Feel free to choose a combination of any of my published tours; or, tell me your interests/what you'll like to see and I will create the most memorable, customized itinerary for you!

Admire, savor and feel the authentic culture of Jalisco.

Guadalajara Multi-Day Tour

The perfect combination to appreciate the beauty and charm of Guadalajara and the Artisan Villages Tlaquepaque and Tonala, all of them full of history and traditions.

First visit Tonala, an artisan village where families are dedicated to producing pottery and many types of handicrafts, visit a very traditional shop and meet the families that for generations have been in this art.

Then we will drive to Tlaquepaque, a charming artisan town where you will have a guided walking tour of the historic center visiting the main shops. Tlaquepaque has excellent restaurants for lunch.

Guadalajara tours

Explore with 19 tours and 5 guides.

Hector Manuel L.

$ 280 (USD)

Luis B.

$ 175 (USD)

Diego H.

$ 110 (USD)

Diego H.

$ 306 (USD)

Carlos Exiquio G.

$ 330 (USD)

Luis B.

$ 250 (USD)

Hector Manuel L.

$ 310 (USD)

Diego H.

$ 190 (USD)

Valeria V.

$ 106 (USD)

Diego H.

$ 138 (USD)

Luis B.

$ 175 (USD)

Diego H.

$ 284 (USD)

Diego H.

$ 258 (USD)

Luis B.

$ 150 (USD)

Diego H.

$ 620 (USD)

Luis B.

$ 175 (USD)

Meet your local guides in Guadalajara

Customize your tour