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Mabaruma Cocoa Project

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

Weather…

The Mabaruma Cocoa Project is located in the Barima-Waini region of northwestern Guyana and is a strategic initiative aimed at revitalizing traditional cocoa cultivation. Historically, the region was famous for producing high-quality cocoa beans, but output declined during the late 20th century. The current project supports small-scale farmers by providing high-yield seedlings, technical training in modern agronomy, and improved post-harvest processing methods. The ultimate goal is to establish 'Guyana Cocoa' as a premium niche product on the international market while enhancing the livelihoods of local communities. The fertile soils and humid tropical climate of the Mabaruma area provide well-suited conditions for organic cultivation. The project encourages sustainable agroforestry systems where cocoa trees are grown under the shade of other canopy crops, which preserves biodiversity and prevents soil degradation. Centralized drying and fermentation facilities are being developed to ensure a consistent quality profile, which is critical for accessing high-end global markets.

Location: Guyana
Nearby: Morawhanna (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	25	26	27	26	26	25	26	26	26	26	25
Rain mm	132	86	63	95	229	254	238	174	102	112	174	207

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Mabaruma Cocoa Project is an agricultural initiative in northwestern Guyana that revitalizes cocoa farming in the indigenous community. It promotes sustainable agriculture and the export of high-quality cocoa.

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Visiting

The cocoa plantations are generally accessible, but it is recommended to arrange a local guide. Visitors can see the cocoa trees and drying facilities up close.

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Where to view it

The plantations stretch along the Mabaruma River, offering beautiful views of the cocoa fields from the riverside paths. From nearby hills you get a panoramic view of the entire agricultural area.

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Local products

In addition to cocoa, tropical fruits such as bananas, papayas, and coconuts are grown in the region. At the local market in Mabaruma you can buy fresh produce and artisan chocolate.

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Active season

The main cocoa harvest occurs twice a year, typically after the rainy season. Processing and fermentation take place immediately after harvest, so these months see the most activity.

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Nearby

Combine the visit with exploration of Mabaruma village and the surrounding rainforests. The nearby Kaieteur National Park is also a worthwhile destination for nature lovers.

Geography

Coordinates

8.20000, -59.78000

Facts

Mabaruma is the administrative center of Region 1 (Barima-Waini).
The project focuses on rehabilitating historic cocoa estates.
Cocoa is primarily grown using sustainable shade-grown methods.
Guyanese cocoa is noted for its unique fruity and nutty flavor profile.
More than 100 local farming families are integrated into the program.
The area's high annual rainfall of 2,500 mm supports rapid growth.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mabaruma<1 km · SExplore →

Barima River3 km · EExplore →

Hosororo Agricultural Station3 km · SWExplore →

Morawhanna5 km · SEExplore →

Waini River21 km · NExplore →

Shell Beach25 km · NExplore →

Port Kaituma28 km · SWExplore →

Amakura River30 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Mabaruma Cocoa Project (1)

Kumaka Water Front

Waterfront viewpoint in Kumaka, overlooking the river and surroundings.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Mabaruma Cocoa Project?

An initiative to revive cocoa cultivation in the Barima-Waini region.

Can you buy cocoa products locally?

Yes, local cooperatives often sell handmade chocolate and cocoa beans.

How do you get to Mabaruma?

Best reached by plane from Georgetown or by ferry.

Are there guided tours of the plantations?

Local guides often offer tours showing the bean-to-bar process.

What can be seen nearby?

The Hosororo Falls and surrounding rainforest areas are worth visiting.

Mabaruma Cocoa Project: where is it located?

Mabaruma Cocoa Project is located in Guyana.

Mabaruma Cocoa Project: when is the best time to visit?