Mexico is the birthplace of many beloved products the country is immensely proud of, such as tacos, Mariachi, and Lucha Libre. Tequila, however, might be the most important of all.
This worldwide-known spirit is the main ingredient in many popular cocktails, and it’s intrinsically connected to Mexican culture.
Named after the small town where it originated, the history of tequila can be traced all the way back to the Aztecs. The spirit is made by fermenting the sugars of the blue agave plant, that can only be found in certain areas of Mexico, making it all the more special.
There are numerous contributors that determine the taste of tequila, and more types than you probably imagine! This is why I highly recommend joining an expert to uncover the secrets behind the drink, its making process, and the appropriate way to drink it.
And since you’re spending your vacation in the Riviera Maya, there’s no place like Cancun to discover a selection of the best tequilas in the country. An ideal Cancun itinerary ought to include the experience!
In this article, I bring you the ultimate Cancun tequila tasting & tours to check out!
Why should you trust my recommendations? As someone who’s explored Mexico extensively—6 months and counting—I can assure you that not all tequila tours are cut from the same agave plant.
I’ve got 10 years of experience picking and recommending tours, so you can bet I know what sets a great tequila tasting apart. Whether you’re keen to learn the difference between añejo and reposado or want to see how this iconic spirit is made, this guide has got you covered.
I usually use Viator, Get Your Guide, and Civitatis to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
An Introduction to Tequila
Tequila is a distilled Mexican drink that’s made from the blue agave plant that grows in certain regions of the country. It’s believed to have originated around 250 AD, when the Aztecs fermented the juices of the plant and drank it as wine.
After the arrival of the Spaniards, the distillation process was introduced, and the drink evolved into the spirit we know today. The production of tequila is permitted only in five states. The most important one is Jalisco, where the majority of the country’s agave plants grow.
Blue agave is the main type used for tequila, which by law must be made with at least 51% of it. The higher the percentage, the better quality of the drink!
An Introduction to Mezcal
We could actually say that tequila is a sub-category of mezcal since the word mezcal defines any agave-based liquor. Unlike tequila, mezcal can be made from any type of agave (including but not limited to the blue one) and it has a higher alcohol content.
Each agave plant has its own characteristics. That, combined with the production method used, will result in many different variations of mezcal. During a tasting, you’ll be able to enjoy an interesting assortment of flavors.
As a general rule, though, mezcal has a rather smoky flavor from the roasted agaves, and its intensity varies depending on the brand.
Cancun Tequila Tasting: The 3 BEST Experiences
▶️ The Tequila University- Puerto Morelos Tequila Tasting and Tapas Pairing is one of the most comprehensive experiences. You’ll visit the Tequila University in Puerto Morelos, where a tequilero will guide a very informative tequila tasting.
The experience will be paired with tacos, and take place on a rooftop with views of the Caribbean.
This is the best tequila tasting from Cancun to enjoy with your group, as it’s exclusive and it’s packed with very interesting information. You’ll learn everything from the history and production of tequila to discovering which type should be used for margaritas – which is only one!
This private tour includes: Tequila class with tasting, tacos and tapas pairings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Ready to become a tequila master? In this Cancun: Tequila Tasting Experience Master Class you’ll be treated to six different types of tequila, which you’ll learn to differentiate as an expert guides you through the sampling, which will include neat tequilas as well as liquors.
You’ll also enjoy an introduction to the tequila-making process and its history, besides getting tips on how to tell quality tequila…from the others. Did you know there’s an appropriate way of drinking tequila? You’ll learn about it too!
The tour accommodates small groups only, guaranteeing a personalized and more comfortable experience.
This tour includes: A tequila masterclass with six tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Cooking Show & Tequila Tasting is the only tour you’ll need if you want to combine good Mexican cuisine with tequila. You’ll head into the jungle for a delectable afternoon, delving into the secrets of tequila while relishing a local gourmet meal.
Your food will be paired with four types of tequila. While you indulge, you’ll be let in on everything that happens behind the scenes! From the selection of the agave plant to the making process will be covered.
This tour includes: A meal, and tasting of four tequilas. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Mezcal Tasting in Cancun: The 3 BEST Experiences
▶️ This Small Group Food Tour and Mezcal Tasting in Cancun is led by a mezcalier, a Mezcal expert. They will introduce you to the drink that’s rising in popularity and it’s so similar yet different from the famous tequila.
You’ll learn about the origin and making process of mezcal, and sample different varieties paired with Mexican bites. The tasting takes place in a local bar in Cancun Downtown, and offers an original way to spend your evening.
This tour includes: Mezcal tasting, a mezcalier guide, and local snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Check out this Authentic Artisanal Mezcal tasting in Cancun with appetizers. It allows you to dive into the world of mezcal as an expert explains the origin of the drink and very interesting facts about its production.
Get comfortable in the tasting room and learn about the characteristics that make mezcal so special. Then, indulge in a tasting of three types of artisanal mezcal.
Each tasting will be paired with snacks that enhance the flavor of the drink. By the end of the class you’ll be fully prepared to order your mezcal drink at the bar and stay for some Latin music and dancing!
This tour includes: A Mezcal expert, mezcal tasting, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Traditional Mezcal Tasting Private Experience Cancun offers a memorable activity to enjoy with your friends or family. You’ll be introduced to the history of mezcal, and everything that makes this drink so unique and distinct from tequila.
You’ll also be let in on the production process, and discover the different ways in which the types of mezcal are made.
Indulge in a sampling of 5 distinct types paired with snacks, and leave with a new appreciation for this lesser-known drink. The activity is also available in Tulum and Playa del Carmen.
This tour includes: Mezcal tasting with snacks, and an expert.➥ BOOK IT HERE
Best Cancun Tours with Tequila Tasting
▶️ Not enough time to enjoy a tequila tasting and sightseeing around the city? Combine both in a single activity with this Taco Tour Cancun – City Tour, Tacos, Tequila, Cerveza & Shopping!
You’ll get to indulge in a refreshing beer and the most delicious tacos in town, including tacos al pastor, tacos campechanos, and quesadillas. A small group of adventurers and a guide will join your party.
Discover the city on an interesting tour and cap off the day at an evening craft market, where you’ll be treated to a mezcal and tequila tasting and dessert. Then, enjoy free time to shop in the numerous stalls!
This tour includes: A guide, a city tour, mezcal and tequila tasting, a beer, a soda, up to 8 tacos, and dessert. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Lucha Libre, Tacos, Margaritas, Night Market, and Tequila Tour in Cancun with Transportation is the ultimate way to spend an evening in the city. You’ll take part in an authentic Mexican fiesta by attending a live Lucha Libre match, a sport locals go crazy about!
Your guide will tell you all the secrets and history of the wrestling ahead of time so you’re fully prepared for the vibrant experience. After the match, learn to make authentic tortillas before indulging in five tacos for dinner, paired with beer and margarita.
Finish the tour by visiting a night market for a tequila tasting, where you’ll also have the chance to listen to a live Mariachi band. The bonus? Take home a Lucha Libre mask as a souvenir!
This tour includes: Lucha Libre entrance, a guide, snacks, a tortilla-making class, tacos, drinks, tequila tasting, and a mask. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Ziplining, Cenotes and Tequila Tasting takes place in Extreme Adventure Cancun, located in the lush Mayan jungle near Puerto Morelos, where you’ll enjoy a day full of adrenaline.
Start by going for a swim in two beautiful cenotes, and make use of the complimentary snorkeling gear to uncover the underwater wonders.
After relaxing on the natural pools, it’s time to hit the zipline circuit for an exhilarating ride above the treetops. You’ll get to recharge your energy with cochinita pibil tacos and a tequila tasting before returning to your hotel.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, all activities, tacos, and tequila tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tequila Tasting in Cozumel (Easy Day Trip)
Planning a day trip to the beautiful island of Cozumel? Combine the visit with a tequila experience once you’re there! Tequila Tasting in Casa Mission is a comprehensive seminar in which you’ll learn all there is to know about the drink from a tequila maker.
Sample eight types of tequila and discover the right way to drink it to get the best flavors. Afterward, enjoy a tasty lunch of lime soup, a main dish with your choice of meat, and a sweet dessert while sipping on a refreshing margarita. You’ll have the chance to shop for your favorite tequilas on-site before leaving!
This tour includes: A tequila masterclass, tequila tastings, lunch, bottled water, a margarita drink, and a Talavera frame. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
