Juan Cho’s Chocolate Farm

Juan Cho’s organic cacao farm is just around the corner from Cotton Tree Lodge by boat or van. Juan’s father established this organic farm many years ago and now Juan and his son continue the tradition. Spend around an hour walking the farm and learning how the different plants, animals, and insects balance each other to maintain this productive agricultural ecosystem. Mr. Cho will show you both new and mature cacao trees, explain how they are harvested, and allow you to taste the fruit. Also an extensionist for SHI Partnership, Juan is a charismatic teacher and guide.He regularly shares his knowledge with local students, fellow farmers, and tourists alike.

After completing the farm tour, a Cotton Tree Lodge vehicle will bring you to the village of San Felipe where you will meet with Juan’s wife, Abelina, and his mother, Cyrila. Several years ago, a Peace Corps volunteer began working with the Cho’s to develop a small chocolate business. Now Abelina and Cyrila produce chocolate bars, cocoa powder, and cacao wine under the label Cyrila’s Chocolate, all from cacao grown on the farm.

Learn how Cyrila and Abelina make chocolate from scratch on a matate (grinding stone) made of volcanic rock and brought over from Guatemala. Help them crack and winnow the beans, grind in local allspice, sugar, and vanilla, and sample your completed work. You will finish up your afternoon with a traditional lunch of chicken caldo, corn tortillas, and a warm spiced chocolate drink.

Please note: Tours of the cacao farm are generally only available on weekends, though may be available other days with advance notice. Chocolate making demonstrations are available any day of the week. The farm is fairly easy walking, but can be slippery in the rain. It is possible to reach this tour by horseback riding or horse-drawn buggy.