The gateway to the agave landscape of Tequila, Jalisco, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is found in El Arenal. This charming town still preserves the remnants of its old haciendas and tequila factories, some of which remain open to the public, offering visitors a chance to learn about the process of making tequila, Mexico's most iconic spirit.
El Arenal is perfect for rural tourism. Bicycle tours allow you to appreciate the agave fields from various viewpoints, and you can even ride through the fields. Additionally, visits to brick factories and leather workshops, two of the town's main economic activities, are organized. Don't leave without picking up a pair of handmade leather sandals or belts.
Walking through El Arenal means delving into the town’s historical paths: in the past, local chiefs claimed all the fertile land, forcing residents to build their homes in the few remaining free spaces. To make the most of the land, they created narrow alleys instead of wide streets, most of which, like 20 de Noviembre, lead to the main square.
The main square is watched over by the Nuestra Señora del Rosario temple and surrounded by a large garden. Traditional cantinas nearby offer a good shot of tequila, pozole, or a torta ahogada. Visitors are often attracted to the large clay jars, known as "cantaritos," filled with tequila and orange slices, which are also sold as souvenirs.
Close to El Arenal is the archaeological site of Guachimontones, renowned for its unique circular pyramids. On the outskirts of town, you can also visit the Exhacienda La Calavera, now a museum interpreting the agave landscape.
