Cacao route in Ecuador

Cacao history

The cacao was previously believed to come from Central America, now we know for certain that it comes from the Amazon Basin, it was then domesticated and taken to Central America and has been consumed since 1400 BC.

Ecuador is the leading Fine Aroma cacao producer of the world, it has over 60% of the world’s production of this kind of cacao. Only 5% of the world’s cacao is labeled as Fine Aroma.

There are two main cacaos in Ecuador, cacao Arriba (Also known as cacao Nacional) and cacao Don Homero (Also known as CCN51).

The cacao Arriba is the oldest known variety of cacao in the world, dating back 5300 years in Ecuador. It is considered one of the best in the world, with a distinctive yellow color, complex fragrances, and taste with floral, fruity, nutty and earthy notes.

The cacao route

The cacao route starts in Guayaquil and continues southwards, finishing in Taura. Along the way we find haciendas, plantations, estates, and much more, learning from bean to bar how chocolate is made.

Guayaquil

We start with a visit to the Hacienda Cañas, where we will learn about the production from the hand of their workers, visiting the nursery, cultivation area, sun drying patios and fermentation area. For lunch we will have a traditional meal and accompanied by cacao juice and breadfruit “patacones”

Balao

At the plantation Camino Verde, one of the Research and Development Centers that gives taste and tecnique profiles. In here you would also learn about the process of harvesting and the history of the cacao in Ecuador.

El Deseo

At the collection center you can learn about the fermentation process and cares the plantation needs.

Milagro

ne of the main cacao estates is the Vitalino Sarabia, here you can learn the process they have from the harvest to the production of their artisan chocolates.

Naranjal

In the estate Querida Virginia, you can learn the research, evaluation and discard process of the fruits.

Taura

In the estate Voluntad de Dios high production trees and “clones” of cacao Arriba can be found. Here you can learn the process of harvest, collection of the fresh fruits, drying and fermentation.

Travel with us to know more about what is considered the best cacao in the world!