Guachimontones and Tequila: a day trip from Guadalajara
Guachimontones and the Pueblo Mágico of Tequila lie in the same region of western Jalisco, so combining them in one day is one of the most recommended excursions from Guadalajara.
Why combine both destinations?
The archaeological zone and the town of Tequila sit a similar distance from Guadalajara, to the west. Visiting the pyramids in the morning and spending the afternoon in Tequila (or the other way round) makes the most of the day and shows two sides of Jalisco: its pre-Hispanic past and its most famous tradition.
- Guadalajara - Guachimontones: about 75 km (1 h 15 - 1 h 45)
- Guachimontones - Tequila: regional road, about 30-40 km
- Both can be covered safely in one long day
Suggested itinerary: morning at Guachimontones
- 08:00 Departure from Guadalajara by car or tour
- 09:30 Arrival at the site; visit the museum and the pyramids
- 11:30 Drive to Tequila
- 12:30 Arrival in central Tequila: lunch, plazas and traditional distilleries
- Afternoon: walking tour of the Pueblo Mágico
- 18:00-19:00 Return to Guadalajara
Alternative itinerary: Tequila first, pyramids after
If you prefer to avoid the midday heat at the site or start at a relaxed pace, visit Tequila in the morning and reach Guachimontones in the afternoon, when the light favours photography of the structures.
- 09:30 Breakfast and stroll through Tequila
- 13:00 Lunch in the town area
- 15:00 Arrival at Guachimontones (less heat and fewer people)
- 17:00 Site closes; return to Guadalajara
Tips for the combined route
- Leave early: the round trip covers more than 200 km
- In Tequila at the weekend, book tables and tastings in advance
- Choose a designated driver or book a tour: the route includes rural stretches
- Carry cash for tickets, guides and shopping in the towns
- Check the weather before you set out during the rainy season
More useful guides
Visitor Guide: Tickets, Opening Hours & On-site Services
Everything about admission, hours, the museum, parking and practical tips for your visit to Guachimontones.
How to Get to Guachimontones from Guadalajara: Car, Bus or Tour
Routes, travel times and transport options from Guadalajara to Teuchitlán and the archaeological zone.
History of the Circular Pyramids & the Teuchitlán Culture
Why these pyramids are circular, who built them and what makes them unique in Mesoamerica.
Sources & References
This independent guide was compiled with data verified from official sources and from the public Google Maps listing of the Zona Arqueológica Teuchitlán o Guachimontones (rated 4.7/5 with over 6,700 reviews).
We review opening hours, prices and services regularly. Before you travel, always confirm the latest details directly with the site or with the official sources linked below.