Discover Colombian cacao and sustainable tourism around this product

Colombian cacao is one of the finest in the world. In recent years, the country has received several international recognitions highlighting its fine aroma and smoothness. Discover some traditions of Colombia that are part of this culture and the sustainable tourism surrounding this fruit.

Colombian cacao comes from a tree called the cacao tree, found in the regions of Antioquia, Arauca, Cauca, Chocó, Santander, Huila, Nariño, and Tolima. Thanks to the agroecological conditions and the country's location, the cacao grown in Colombia is characterized by its fine flavor and aroma. These characteristics have made Colombian cacao the recipient of numerous international awards, especially at the Salon du Chocolat in Paris.

Next, we suggest some tours to explore “the cacao route” in Colombia and some sustainable tourism experiences you can find around its cultivation.

Experiences with Colombian cacao in a paradise of fauna and flora

Discover paradise of fauna and flora in Minca.

Minca is a village in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta known for its beautiful vegetation. For this reason, it is also known as “a paradise among mountains” or “the ecological capital of Colombia.” One of the popular activities for tourists visiting Minca is the “chocolate and coffee tour.” This type of tour falls under the “rural tourism” category, as it involves immersive experiences in activities with rural communities that sensitize tourists to other cultural identity practices.

Several farms offer this tour, including:

Discover the La Candelaria farm

Just 45 minutes by car from Santa Marta, very close to Minca, lies Carpe Diem, an eco-hotel situated on top of a mountain with a spectacular view surrounded by forests. One of the tours offered is the “Cacao and Chocolate Route in Colombia” at the La Candelaria farm. This farm has been owned by a family that has cultivated organic coffee and cacao beans for generations. During this one-hour tour, visitors can learn all about the cultivation and processing of the beans until they become chocolate. Additionally, participants will enjoy a delicious cup of organic coffee.

Finally, to promote sustainable tourism around Colombian cacao, participants can purchase organic chocolate from local producers. There is also the option to enjoy a “chocolate experience” through a chocolate therapy massage.

Enjoy rural tourism at La Victoria Farm

This is the oldest coffee farm in the region, where you can learn about the processes for cultivating and producing coffee and cacao, and even make a chocolate bar. This farm has developed various sustainable tourism offerings around its products and opens its nature reserves for guided tours for nature lovers.

Other complementary activities in this tour include:

● Taking ecological walks or trekking to appreciate the local vegetation.

● Visiting a 100% indigenous home.

● Taking a refreshing dip in the Marinca Waterfalls or Pozo Azul.

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Indulge in cacao experiences in Cartagena

Discover tourist experiences around cacao in Cartagena.

Cartagena is one of the most charming cities in Colombia. Its port, fortress, and monumental complex were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city delights with its sun and beaches, and captivates with its colorful colonial architecture that can be appreciated throughout its streets.

Another reason to keep visiting “La Heroica” is its offer of experiences around Colombian cacao.

Make your own chocolates at ChocoMuseo

Get ready to make your own chocolates in Cartagena.

Located in the walled city, in Parque Fernández de Madrid, this is the ideal place for chocolate lovers. ChocoMuseo offers “From Bean to Bar” workshops, which is one of the most popular and a short workshop on chocolate making.

The first workshop can be done any day of the week without prior reservation, as it is held three times a day: at 11:00 a.m., and 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. It lasts three hours and can be conducted in English or Spanish. In the “From Bean to Bar” workshop, both children and adults will learn to make chocolates directly from the cacao bean, using their own hands and personalizing their designs. They will also prepare and taste artisan chocolate drinks as the Maya and ancient conquistadors did.

The mini chocolate workshop includes a brief explanation about the cultivation and processing of cacao. In this short 45-minute course, participants will learn to make 100-gram chocolates with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or choose from over 15 flavors and variations.

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Experiences of Colombian traditions from the capital

Discover different experiences around cacao in La Candelaria.

Bogotá is a city with a vast array of experiences for every visitor. From its five gastronomic zones featuring the best of national and international cuisine to its artistic offerings and cultural programming. The capital city is where everyone can find a good plan. Additionally, there are various experiences around cacao that are also part of Colombian traditions.

The main chocolate tradition in Bogotá occurs every day at 4:00 p.m. when the famous “onces santafereñas” are consumed. This refers to the custom of capital residents to drink a hot “santafereño” chocolate prepared in water, with a portion of cheese and bread with butter.

This is one of the Colombian traditions that can be enjoyed at various locations or “once salons” in the city, such as:

● La Puerta Falsa: The most emblematic and oldest place in the city to enjoy chocolate.

● Pastelería “La Florida”: A renowned spot for enjoying onces in the city, complete with a delicious pastry menu.

● Distrito Chocolate: Known as “the store of the Cacao Cultivators of Colombia,” this place combines tradition with innovation. Their menu offers everything from chocolate sandwiches to chucula, a preparation made from seven grains of 100% Colombian cacao.

Get ready to discover the great experiences behind Colombian cacao and explore the traditions of Colombia that will enchant you.

Colombian cacao not only highlights the masterful agricultural tradition of various departments with its high quality but also complements several destinations through incredible experiences marked by flavor, culture, learning, fun, and adventure. Learn more about cacao in Colombia, a product recognized worldwide.