El Barretal Coffee Plantation & Scenic Drive

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Guatemala is recognized for producing some of the world's finest coffees. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or simply enjoy the occasional cup of coffee, you'll appreciate this fascinating tour of one of the country's most beautiful coffee farms located in the shadow of an active volcano!

Begin your guided adventure at the pier where you'll board the air-conditioned mini-bus for a scenic 90-minute drive to your destination. Rugged, primordial landscape beckons you as you traverse winding roads and volcanic mountain ranges. Arrive at El Barretal Coffee Finca (Farm). This breathtaking and enormous 250-acre coffee farm is located on the outskirts of the Pacaya National Park, which is home to the majestic Pacaya Volcano.

You'll be greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff who will invite you into the owner's charming home (complete with exotic birds in the in the courtyard) to view an introductory video that explains the history of coffee in Guatemala (the first plantations were started by the Spanish and originally utilized slaves to work the fields). Then with the towering Pacaya volcano as a backdrop, enjoy an educational/ecological tour of this lush, rolling finca. As you walk through coffee fields and processing plants, you'll learn the secrets of how high quality Guatemalan coffee is cultivated, harvested and processed for export and local consumption. Discover, too, how the region's ideal climate, high altitude, fertile volcanic soils and traditional farming practices all contribute to create the finest coffee beans - which are harvested by hand! That will make you truly appreciate your next cup of coffee!

You'll also have the opportunity to explore the grounds, the master house, beautiful gardens filled with exotic flora, and glistening waterfalls that tumble through primeval forests. After all that talk about creating the perfect cup of coffee, it's time to sit and actually enjoy one. You'll be invited to the main house to sample the finca's robust and flavorful coffees (and some cookies too!) Taste a blend you like? It's available for purchase at the gift shop here. Feel a rush? It's not the caffeine! It's the beauty of Guatemala.

Special Notes:

There is some walking involved - about 100 yards on flat cement terrain and 250 yards uphill on a trail to observe the coffee and medicinal plants.

Child Price:

12 & under reduced