Dear reader,
I would also like to recommend our Colombia travel guide, which provides a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Colombia. Enjoy reading it!
Colombia is a country brimming with treasures, and one of its finest is cacao. Renowned for its quality and flavor, Colombian cacao offers an authentic and delicious experience. Embarking on the cacao trail is an adventure you shouldn’t miss, providing a unique opportunity to visit cacao plantations and learn about the transformation of the cacao fruit into chocolate.
In this blog, you’ll discover the cacao tourism in Colombia and explore the regions where cacao cultivation is vital for the social and economic development of rural areas.
History of Cacao in Colombia
Cacao, originating from the Amazon region, has been part of Colombian culture since pre-Columbian times.
Pre-Columbian Era: Indigenous peoples used cacao in rituals and as currency.
Colonial Era: With the arrival of Europeans, cacao became a commercial product, exporting to Europe from 1580.
Modern Era: In the 20th century, cacao production in Colombia modernized, adopting industrial techniques. New cacao varieties were developed, and cultivation and processing methods were refined, boosting the industry.
Types of Cacao in Colombia
Colombia cultivates three cacao varieties: criollo, forastero, and trinitario.
- Criollo: Known for its exceptional flavor and aroma, it’s highly valued and considered the highest quality.
- Forastero: Dominates the global market due to its productivity and high fat content, though its flavor and aroma are less intense.
- Trinitario: A hybrid combining the best attributes of criollo and forastero.
Colombian producers employ clones of criollo and trinitario, obtained through research, to ensure genetic uniformity and maintain high quality standards. Propagation is carried out through grafting, a technique that ensures consistency in the cocoa’s characteristics.
The Cacao Trail in Colombia
Cocoa is one of Colombia’s most important agricultural products, with production concentrated in several regions of the country. Here are the main cocoa-producing regions in Colombia that offer tourist experiences centered around this fruit.
Antioquia
Home to Colombia’s coffee region, Antioquia is becoming a key destination for cacao enthusiasts. Amidst its green, mountainous landscapes, cacao plantations are thriving, producing high-quality beans that contribute to the renowned Colombian chocolate.
Cacao for Peace and Reconciliation
The annual cocoa production in Antioquia amounts to 5,285 tons, making it the third-largest cocoa-producing department in the country.
One prominent area for cocoa production in Antioquia is Turbo, located in the Urabá region. This municipality has witnessed a unique reconciliation project where victims and perpetrators of armed conflict have worked together in cocoa plantations to rebuild their lives.
At ‘Monomacho’ farm in Pueblo Bello, agriculture has become a bridge to peace, with 330 hectares dedicated to cocoa cultivation and an additional 120 hectares of bananas providing shade for optimal cocoa growth.
Tourist Destinations in Antioquia
San Rafael
One of the most popular experiences for cocoa enthusiasts is the Cocoa Tour in San Rafael. This tour allows visitors to learn about the artisanal chocolate-making process, visit cocoa and coffee plantations, and take a nature walk to enjoy the biodiversity of the surroundings.
Santa Fe de Antioquia
Another key destination is Santa Fe de Antioquia, a colonial town with cobblestone streets and colorful houses that invite exploration of its history and culture. Visitors can find local cocoa and chocolate products here, along with enjoying the local architecture and cuisine.
Cacao Conecta: A Transformative Initiative
An important project in the region is Cacao Conecta, a partnership between Microsoft, Compañía Nacional de Chocolates, and Fundación Ideas para la Paz (FIP), supported by USAID. Over three years, this project has empowered women and youth in cocoa cultivation in Turbo, Dabeiba, and Apartadó, bringing positive change to the cocoa community and the Urabá region.
Cacao Conecta has significantly boosted cocoa productivity, increased participation of women and youth in decision-making, and implemented technology to enhance transparency and connectivity.
- Through this initiative, 26 connectivity points have been established, and 664 hectares of cocoa have been improved, resulting in a 15% production increase and enhanced productivity of production units.
- Forty-seven percent of the project’s 325 direct beneficiaries report improved well-being in terms of economic, social, and human capital.
Gender focus has been crucial in promoting equity and political participation of women in the cocoa environment, fostering dialogue spaces, and combating sexist stereotypes.
Discover Antioquia
In addition to cocoa experiences, Antioquia offers a wide range of tourist destinations.
From the beautiful La Navarra ecological park and Cerro Quitasol in Bello municipality, to Santa Elena with its colorful flowers and Parque Arví, a natural complex teeming with forests and diverse wildlife.
Other destinations include the charming town of Jardín, known for its colonial houses and freshwater waterfalls, and Jericó, famed as the ‘prettiest hill in America’.
Finally, no trip to Antioquia is complete without visiting Guatapé and the stunning Piedra del Peñol, a towering 220-meter-high rock offering spectacular views of Guatapé reservoir.
Santander
Located in Colombia’s Andean region, Santander is renowned for its natural beauty and high-quality cocoa. Known as the epicenter of cocoa in Colombia, Santander offers a unique blend of outdoor experiences, culture, and gastronomy.
Cocoa Production in Santander
Santander is Colombia’s leading cocoa producer, with 22,899 tons produced in 2022, according to figures from the National Federation of Cocoa Growers (Fedecacao). The region is home to major cocoa-producing municipalities like San Vicente de Chucurí, El Carmen de Chucurí, Rionegro, and Landázuri.
These areas are steeped in traditions associated with the ‘food of the gods’ and are known for the high quality of their cocoa. Research and significant industry events also take place here.
Tourist Destinations in Santander
Santander offers diverse cocoa-related tourist routes.
San Vicente de Chucurí stands out as a destination where visitors can tour cocoa plantations and learn about chocolate production, from harvesting to chocolate bar crafting.
Santander’s cocoa is distinguished by its bitter and intense flavor, which tourists can experience in specialty shops in the area.
In addition to San Vicente de Chucurí, recommended stops on the cocoa route include Landázuri, known for its cocoa farms, and El Carmen de Chucurí. During these tours, tourists can also enjoy landscapes adorned with tropical forests and water sources.
Discover Santander
Santander is not only famous for its cocoa but also for its impressive natural attractions and tourist activities.
- Among the most popular destinations is Chicamocha National Park, a majestic place offering breathtaking views of the Chicamocha Canyon. Here, visitors can enjoy adventures like paragliding and cable car rides.
- For hiking enthusiasts, the Serranía de los Yariguíes National Natural Park is ideal, offering activities such as hiking, wildlife and flora observation, and appreciation of spectacular landscapes.
- San Gil, another major city in Santander, is known as Colombia’s adventure sports capital. Tourists can engage in activities such as rafting and rappelling, as well as explore other ecotourism activities.
- In terms of gastronomy, Bucaramanga, the department’s capital, is famous for its diverse cuisine. Traditional dishes include pepitoria, made with goat viscera and blood, and hormigas culonas, a local delicacy.
The cocoa industry and its social impact in Santander
Beyond tourism, the cocoa industry in Santander significantly impacts local communities.
Projects like Chocolaterra, led by women in Rionegro, demonstrate the transformative potential of cocoa, not only economically but also socially. These women have been trained to bring cocoa from the field to the table, creating innovative and healthy products, and seek to expand their reach so that more people can experience and enjoy Santander cocoa.
Tumaco
Tumaco, a city on Colombia’s Pacific coast, is renowned for its natural beauty and rich culture, earning it the title “The Pearl of the Pacific”. Besides being a key port in the Colombian Pacific, Tumaco is emerging as a destination for cocoa tourism, known for its production of high-quality organic cocoa recognized globally.
Cocoa Production in Tumaco
Tumaco stands out for its production of fine aromatic cocoa. Thanks to its rich soil and favorable climate, the region cultivates high-quality cocoa, internationally acclaimed. According to Fedecacao, Nariño ranks sixth in cocoa production in Colombia, with Tumaco playing a pivotal role. In 2016, the department produced 2,059 tons of cocoa, with production continuing to grow.
This growth has attracted the attention of chocolate companies and international buyers. Tumaco’s cocoa has been acclaimed at events such as the Paris Chocolate Salon, praised for its quality and aroma. The popularity of this cocoa has led to visits from researchers and buyers worldwide, eager to learn about the cocoa process and local culture.
Cocoa Route in Tumaco
In Tumaco, you can’t miss the Cocoa Route, where visitors tour cocoa farms and learn about the entire cultivation and production process, from planting to harvesting and drying. By participating in these activities, tourists support the local communities’ economic development and contribute to the region’s sustainability.
A must-stop is Chocolate Tumaco, an organization representing over 5,000 local producers dedicated to cocoa marketing, ensuring the region’s economic sustainability. This organization offers tours and tastings that provide firsthand experience of cocoa production and its derivative products.
Discover Tumaco
Beyond cocoa, Tumaco offers a variety of tourist attractions.
From July to September, visitors can enjoy whale watching as humpback whales migrate to the Colombian Pacific coast to breed and feed. Boat tours from Tumaco Bay offer an exciting way to observe these majestic creatures.
Tumaco also boasts diverse beaches worth visiting.
- El Morro Beach is famous for its natural stone arch and the soft dark sand typical of Colombia’s Pacific coast.
- Bocagrande, just 15 minutes by boat from Tumaco, is an ideal island for fishing and surfing, with waves reaching over two meters high.
- Other beaches like Milagros, Bocanueva, and Terán offer a wide variety of flora and fauna, along with several hotels and entertainment venues.
Gastronomy and Local Traditions of Tumaco
Tumaco’s gastronomy is a fundamental part of the tourist experience. Recommended dishes include tapao de pescado (fish stew), encocao de camarón (shrimp in coconut sauce), ceviche de concha (shellfish ceviche), cazuela de mariscos (seafood stew), arroz toyo (rice dish), and atoyao (a local dish). For dessert, white and black cocadas (coconut sweets) are delicious options. Additionally, don’t miss out on traditional avocado juice, a regional beverage.
Tumaco is also home to cultural festivities and celebrations. The Carnivals of Fire, held eight days before Easter Week, and the Currulao Festival in December are perfect occasions to immerse oneself in the music and dance of the Colombian Pacific.
Investment in Cocoa Development
Initiatives like the Cocoa x Coca program aim to transform illicit economies by bolstering cocoa cultivation, benefiting hundreds of families and creating employment and development opportunities for rural farmers and women.
These initiatives also focus on environmental sustainability and economic development, supporting cocoa organizations to improve their production and marketing processes and build appropriate infrastructure for cocoa transportation and sales. Projects like the PDET Routes contribute to the integral development of territories, promoting community participation and improving economic and environmental conditions.
Arauca
Arauca, located in Colombia’s Orinoquía region, is a vibrant destination combining rich history, natural beauty, and most notably, the production of some of the world’s finest cacao. Known as the “Gateway to Orinoquía,” Arauca has gained international recognition for the quality and aroma of its cacao, winning multiple awards at events like the Salon du Chocolat in Paris.
The Richness of Arauca’s Cacao
Arauca’s cacao is renowned for its aroma, flavor, and high quality. These unique characteristics stem from the region’s warm, humid plains climate, coupled with the sustainable farming practices of its dedicated farmers. Arauca’s cacao plantations have received global accolades, securing prestigious awards in Paris in 2010, 2011, and 2019. The cacao produced here is used to create fine, aromatic chocolates with flavors ranging from nutty to citrus and fresh fruit notes. The cacao industry supports around 5,000 families, producing approximately 6,398 tons annually (2016 data).
Cacao Tourism in Arauca
For those keen on delving deeper into the world of cacao, Arauca offers an experiential cacao route.
This four-day tour includes visits to farms like Villa Gaby, where visitors can observe the cacao production process and learn about different types, drying methods, and marketing strategies. Additionally, the tour features artisanal chocolate tastings and opportunities to purchase cacao-related products in places like El Troncal, a quaint cacao-growing village known for its crafts.
Another unique experience in Arauca is the National Cacao Pageant, an annual event showcasing the beauty and talent of representatives from Colombia’s cacao-producing departments. This event provides an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the cacao culture and meet local producers.
Discover Arauca
While cacao is a central aspect of Arauca’s appeal, the department offers much more.
Notable landmarks include the José Antonio Páez International Bridge, the Malecón, and the Llano Ecological Park. Activities such as coleo, where cowboys demonstrate their skills with bulls and calves, and festivals celebrating llanero music and folklore are also popular.
Arauca’s rich cuisine is a must-try, featuring dishes like mamona or ternera a la llanera (grilled veal), picadillo, and traditional Orinoquía soup.
To cool off, visitors can swim in the majestic Tame River or visit Laguna de la Vieja, a historic site with stunning landscapes.
Cacao: A Source of Peace and Development in Arauca
Cacao in Arauca is not just a high-quality product; it has also played a crucial role in stabilizing the region. The cultivation of cacao has helped thousands of families transition away from coca and illicit economies, providing them with a safe and sustainable livelihood.
The Coomprocar cooperative, for instance, purchases cacao from over 200 families, mostly victims of forced displacement, and sells their products to companies like Nacional de Chocolate and Casa Luker.
Arauca also welcomes Venezuelan migrants, many of whom have found employment in cacao plantations and local cooperatives. Supporting these collective initiatives and promoting the cacao industry have been vital for the region’s economic and social development.
Cacao Cultivation in Colombia: A Pillar of Social Development
Cacao is not only an essential ingredient for the delicious chocolate we enjoy but also a crop of great social importance in Colombia. From rural areas to the international stage, Colombian cacao is driving economic development, preserving culture, and weaving a more prosperous future for communities.
A prime example of this social significance is found at El Rubí farm in San Vicente de Chucurí. Through its dedication to excellence, this farm has produced world-class cacao, recognized at the Salon du Chocolat in Paris in 2019. This award adds to the accolades earned by Colombian cacao over the years, solidifying the country as a benchmark of unique quality and flavor.
Beyond international recognition, the social impact of cacao in Colombia is reflected in the stories of the communities cultivating it. Initiatives like Late Chocó in the Chocó department emerged from the need to add value to cacao produced ancestrally by black communities affected by armed conflict and illegal mining.
Late Chocó aims to improve the living conditions of these communities through sustainable agricultural practices and fair prices while preserving their culture and traditions. The initiative acknowledges cacao’s central role in Chocoan identity and strives to bring it to specialized markets, where its history and quality can truly shine.
Cacao-Derived Products
Cacao is one of Colombia’s most important products and has become a key ingredient in many food items. Here are some cacao-derived products found on Colombia’s Cacao Route:
Artisanal Chocolate
Artisanal chocolate, made from high-quality cacao beans and produced in small quantities to ensure freshness and quality, is one of the most popular cacao-derived products in Colombia.
The Santander region is a top spot to taste artisanal chocolate, where tourists can visit cacao plantations and chocolate factories to learn more about the production process and sample different varieties.
Other Products
In addition to artisanal chocolate, many other cacao-derived products can be found in Colombia, including:
- Cacao Butter: Used in cosmetics and personal care products for its moisturizing and emollient properties.
- Cacao Powder: Used in hot beverages like hot chocolate and in baking.
- Cacao Liqueur: Used in making alcoholic beverages and in baking.
- Confections: Made with chocolate and other ingredients like dried fruits and nuts.
More nature tourism experiences in Colombia
Here you will find a list of incredible destinations for hiking and other nature activities in Colombia:
- Best 9 Hiking Regions and 27 Routes in Colombia For Travelers
- Colombian Flowers: The Top 11 Most Representative Species
- Cocoa Guide Colombia – Features & Producers
More recommended hiking trails
- Discover the 7 Best Hiking Routes in Antioquia, Colombia
- The 9 Best Hiking Routes in Cundinamarca, Colombia
- Must-Try Hiking Trails in Magdalena, Colombia
- Discover 4 Must-Visit Hiking Trails in Amazonas, Colombia
- Explore 9 Scenic Trails in Eastern Plains, Colombia
- 5 Must-Experience Hiking Trails in Valle del Cauca, Colombia
- 6 Must-Experience Hiking Trails in Cauca, Colombia
- 5 Must-Experience Hiking Routes in Huila, Colombia
- The 6 Best Hiking Trails in Tolima, Colombia
- The 7 Most Incredible Hiking Routes in Boyacá, Colombia
- Hiking in Santander, Colombia – 5 Incredible Routes
- Hiking in Colombia’s Coffee Region: Top 5 Must-Visit Routes
