Cocoa Plantations in Costa Rica
Unlike some other countries in Central and South America, Costa Rica is not one of the world's major cocoa producers. However, cocoa cultivation is still a part of the country's agricultural landscape, and there are several cocoa plantations and farms at which you can learn about the process of growing and harvesting cocoa beans.
Here are a few places where you can visit cocoa plantations:
Sibö Chocolate, San Isidro
Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee, Puerto Viejo
Cacao Trails, Sarapiquí region
Sibö Chocolate
Sibö Chocolate is a well-known chocolate maker in Costa Rica, situated in the village of San Isidro de Heredia. Here, you can take tours of their farm to learn about cocoa cultivation and the chocolate-making process. During the hour-long experience, the visitors taste samples of fresh cocoa fruit, roasted cocoa beans as well as hot chocolate.
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Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee
Located in Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast, Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee is a popular destination for those interested in the chocolate-making process from bean to bar. You can visit their organic cocoa farm and learn everything you want to know about cocoa and chocolate history.
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Cacao Trails
Cacao Trails offer tours in the Sarapiquí region, where you can visit cocoa farms and see the traditional process of making chocolate in full. This region is also known for its biodiversity and lush rainforests.
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Talamanca Chocolate Tour
Located in the southern Caribbean region of Costa Rica, Talamanca Chocolate Tour takes you to a cocoa farm where you can learn about the traditional process of making chocolate, including cocoa bean harvesting and fermentation.
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Finca La Isla´s Botanical Garden
This botanical garden, located near Puerto Viejo, not only features a variety of tropical plants but also cocoa trees. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of cocoa cultivation and its role in Costa Rican culture.
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Although cocoa cultivation is not as widespread in Costa Rica as it is in some other countries, these cocoa farm tours offer a unique and educational experience for visitors interested in chocolate production and the cultural history of cocoa in Costa Rica. You can also find original chocolate products in local markets and shops, often made from locally sourced cocoa beans.