Coffee & Cacao Tours
From Bean to Soul
About this Tour
Immerse yourself in the rich Costa Rican coffee tradition and discover the secrets of artisanal chocolate in the highlands where these treasures are born.
Costa Rica is recognized worldwide for producing some of the best coffee on the planet. In the volcanic highlands, where the climate, altitude and mineral-rich soil create perfect conditions, families of coffee growers have perfected their art for generations.
During this tour, you will not only learn about the coffee process from seed to cup, but you will also discover the coffee culture that defines so much of Costa Rican identity. In addition, we will explore the world of cocoa and artisanal chocolate, completing a unique sensory experience.
Tour Gallery
Tour Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Hotel pick-up
7:00 AMDeparture to the coffee highlands (1.5-hour trip)
Arrival at the coffee farm
8:30 AMWelcome with fresh coffee and panoramic view
Plantation tour
9:00 AMWalk through coffee fields, explanation of cultivation and harvesting
Coffee processing
10:30 AMArtisanal processing, drying, roasting and grinding
Coffee tasting
11:30 AMTasting of different varieties and preparation methods
Country lunch
12:30 PMTypical food with local ingredients and a view of the plantations
Cacao tour
2:00 PMThe process of chocolate from the pod to the bar
Interactive activity
3:30 PMRoast your own coffee and prepare artisanal chocolate
Return
4:30 PMReturn trip to San José (arrival approx. 6:00 PM)
What to Bring
Coffee Growing Regions
Central Valley
- Altitude: 1,200-1,700m
- Harvest: Nov-Feb
- Profile: Chocolate notes
- Body: Full, balanced
- Acidity: Medium-bright
Tarrazú Region
- Altitude: 1,200-1,900m
- Harvest: Dec-Mar
- Profile: Citrus, floral
- Body: Light-medium
- Acidity: High, wine-like
Coffee Varieties You'll Taste
Premium Coffee Selection
Our tours feature three exceptional Costa Rican coffee varieties, each with its unique flavor profile:
Geisha
Premium variety with floral and citrus notes
Origin: Ethiopia, grown in Costa Rica
Bourbon
Classic Costa Rican with medium body and natural sweetness
Origin: Bourbon Island, adapted locally
Caturra
Intense and aromatic, the national favorite
Origin: Brazil, perfected in Costa Rican lands
The Coffee Process
Production Methods
From cherry to cup, Costa Rican coffee undergoes a meticulous process that takes months to complete:
Cultivation & Harvest:
- 9 months from flower to cherry
- Hand-picked when red
- Multiple harvest passes
- Only ripe cherries selected
Processing Methods:
- Wet (washed): Clean, bright
- Honey: Sweet, fruity
- Natural: Full body, wine notes
- 14-21 days drying
Cacao and Chocolate Experience
Bean to Bar Process
Costa Rican cacao is prized for its fine flavor profile. Learn the ancient art of chocolate making:
- Harvesting: Pods cut when yellow/red, seeds extracted with pulp
- Fermentation: 5-7 days in wooden boxes, develops chocolate flavor
- Drying: Sun-dried for 5-7 days to 7% moisture
- Roasting: 120-140°C brings out flavor compounds
- Grinding: Creates cocoa liquor, basis for all chocolate
Tasting Notes Guide
Learn to identify: Fragrance/Aroma • Flavor • Aftertaste • Acidity • Body • Balance • Sweetness • Clean Cup • Uniformity. Professional cupping scores range 80-100 points.
Sustainability Focus
All partner farms are Rainforest Alliance certified. Fair trade premiums go directly to farmers. Shade-grown coffee preserves biodiversity. Organic practices protect water sources.
Did You Know?
Costa Rica produces only Arabica coffee by law - Robusta cultivation has been banned since 1989 to maintain quality standards. The country exports 90% of its coffee, with the USA, Germany, and Belgium as main importers.
Up to 48 hours before the tour
Includes:
- Private transportation with A/C
- Specialized coffee guide
- Coffee plantation tour
- Premium coffee tasting
- Cacao and chocolate tour
- Lunch overlooking the plantations
- Coffee roasting activity
- Gift bag of artisanal coffee
Does Not Include:
- Additional coffee purchases
- Tips
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal travel insurance
Best Time to Go
All year round. Harvest season (October-February) is ideal to see the complete process. Dry season (December-April) offers better views.
