Skip to contentTONALA, MEXICO
To get the best experience in Tonala you need to book one of our local friendly tour guides. He will be able to show you around, make you feel like a local. Whether you want to see the tourist sites or visit places off the beaten track and discover new experiences, then our Guides4me guide is there to make it happen.
José
José is 32 years old, LGBT friendly and speaks English & Spanish.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Guadalajara, where every street and plaza is steeped in history and tradition. A lawyer by profession and an artist by passion, he expresses the spirit of Mexico through his paintings and sculptures. After living in Canada and becoming fluent in English, José returned home with a deep desire to share the true beauty of his country with the world.
He is deeply passionate about Mexican folklore, gastronomy, architecture, cultural heritage, and the traditions of indigenous peoples. As an experienced and enthusiastic guide, José’s mission is to ensure every visitor experiences the magic of Mexico firsthand. With him, you’re not just seeing the sights. Above all, you’re immersing yourself in the heart and soul of the country. His greatest joy is helping guests take a true piece of Mexico back home with them, creating memories filled with colour, flavour, and history.
Total cost for the guide services of José for one day (8 hours) = a booking fee of USD 33 via Paypal, debit / credit cards, bank transfer or Crypto Currency plus USD 100 in cash to José after his services. This makes a total of USD 133.
This excludes any transport, entrance fees or any food & beverage costs.
“I would highly recommend José, as a guide, for your next visit to Mexico. He knows the best places to eat and the best things to see and can surely offer an unforgettable experience” – Maurice, USA.
Exploring Tonalá, Mexico: A Hidden Gem of Art and Culture
Tonalá, located just outside Guadalajara in the state of Jalisco, is a vibrant town with deep artistic roots and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s best known for its centuries-old tradition of handcrafts and artisanal markets, making it a must-visit destination for travellers who want to experience authentic Mexican culture beyond the usual tourist spots.
What to See and Do in Tonala
1. Visit the Artisan Markets
Every Thursday and Sunday, Tonala comes alive with its massive street market. This is where hundreds of artisans sell handcrafted pottery, blown glass, ironwork, furniture, textiles, and more. This is one of the largest and most famous artisan markets in Mexico, and it’s a perfect place to pick up unique, handmade souvenirs.
2. Explore Art Studios and Workshops
Tonalá isn’t just a place to buy crafts. It’s where they’re made. Many local artisans open their workshops to visitors, offering demonstrations of traditional techniques passed down through generations. From barro brunido (burnished clay) to papel maché and glassblowing, you’ll get an inside look at Mexico’s rich craft heritage.
3. Visit the Cerro de la Reina
This hilltop park offers sweeping views of the Guadalajara metropolitan area. It’s also home to a statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe and a small church. The peaceful setting is perfect for a walk or a sunset photo.
4. Discover Historic Churches and Murals
Tonalá’s central plaza features colonial-era architecture and the beautiful Church of Santiago Apostol. As you walk the streets, you’ll also find public art and murals that reflect the town’s cultural identity and history.
5. Enjoy Traditional Food of Tonala
No visit is complete without sampling local cuisine. Tonala’s street food scene includes tacos de barbacoa, tamales, birria, and freshly made aguas frescas. Some artisan families even sell food from their homes during market days.
Tonala is more than just a shopping destination. It’s a cultural experience, a walk through living history, and a celebration of Mexican creativity. Whether you’re a serious art collector, a curious traveller, or someone who just loves a colourful market, Tonalá offers something unique. And with a knowledgeable local guide by your side, your trip becomes more meaningful, memorable, and connected to the heart of the town.
Whatever you choose to do in Mexico, it will be a unique and memorable experience of a lifetime, with a Guides4me guide, who will look after you and by the end of the trip you’ve made a best friend.
A map of local hotels with discounts up to 60%
The Cheapest Flights to Guadalajara, per month
