Join us on this Cacao Farm Experience that starts on the charming city of Cuenca and takes you to the vibrant port city of Guayaquil, with a special stop at El Deseo Cacao Plantation. Located just an hour away from Guayaquil, El Deseo offers you a unique opportunity to dive deep into the world of cacao, a cornerstone of Ecuador’s rich culinary heritage.
Your adventure begins as you leave Cuenca (pickup at 9am) and head towards this lush plantation. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the intoxicating aroma of cacao and other typical fruits of the Ecuadorian coast. Here, you’ll get to observe the entire process of cacao production—from planting and harvesting to exportation.
Though the chocolate bar itself isn’t produced on-site, you’ll learn about the fascinating journey of a cacao bean turning into a chocolate bar. Understand the significance of each step, from the cacao tree and its fruit to the basic and final processes of making cacao and chocolate.
What’s a visit to a cacao plantation without tasting some chocolate? Indulge in the rich flavors of 100% organic chocolate. If you wish, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase some, directly supporting local cacao farmers in the process.
Your visit culminates with a delicious lunch featuring typical dishes from Ecuador’s coastal region, offering you a full-circle experience of the country’s culinary diversity.
By choosing this tour, you’re not just signing up for a delightful day but also contributing to the local economy and gaining insights into sustainable farming practices. Come, let’s make your travel impactful, one cacao bean at a time.
This tour goes beyond the typical sightseeing experience by directly supporting local cacao farmers and the community. Your visit and any purchases made contribute to the local economy, providing a sustainable source of income for these farmers.
Additionally, the tour serves as an educational platform, enlightening travelers about the importance of sustainable farming practices. This knowledge not only enriches your travel experience but also encourages responsible consumer choices in the future.
By participating in this tour, you’re making a positive impact on both the community and the environment, aligning perfectly with the ethos of responsible and impactful travel.
Yes, this tour is family-friendly and suitable for children over the age of 8.
Yes, the chocolate tasting is included, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase additional chocolate if you wish.
In your hotel in downtown Guayaquil (hotels that are further away have an additional cost).
For questions about booking a tour, prices, preparation for your trip, health and safety or other themes, please check our Frequently Asked Questions page. If you can’t find your question & answer, email us and we’ll add it!
Impactful Travel is more than just a travel company; we are a movement aimed at transforming the way people travel. Specializing in sustainable and meaningful experiences, we curate tours that not only delight the senses but also leave a positive impact on the places we visit and the people we interact with.
Our team is passionate about responsible tourism, cultural preservation, and community engagement. We work closely with local experts, artisans, and farmers to provide authentic experiences that educate and inspire.
For this Cacao Farm Experience, we’ve partnered with the local cacao farmers of El Deseo to bring you an immersive journey into the world of chocolate. From planting and harvesting to the final chocolate-making process, this tour offers a hands-on experience that supports local agriculture and promotes sustainable farming practices.
Join us on this enriching adventure and make your travel impactful, one experience at a time.