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Quillabamba Cacao Farms
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Quillabamba, the 'City of Eternal Summer', is the gateway to the lush tropical valleys of the Cusco region and a premier center for high-quality cacao production. The warm, humid climate of the La Convención province provides the first-rate environment for the 'Chuncho' cacao, an ancient and rare variety prized by chocolatiers worldwide for its aromatic complexity and fine flavor. Visitors to the cacao farms can witness the traditional harvesting process, where the colorful pods are opened by hand and the beans are fermented and dried in the tropical sun. These farms are essential for the local economy and represent a growing shift toward organic and sustainable agriculture in the Amazonian foothills. A taste of Quillabamba chocolate is a direct link to the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Peruvian jungle.
- Location: Peru
- Top sights: Teatro Municipal · Museo Amazónico Andino · Sambaray
- Nearby: Urubamba (74 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 132 | 133 | 106 | 40 | 14 | 5 | 12 | 12 | 24 | 56 | 74 | 133 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Set in the tropical forest of Cusco, this agricultural hub is widely renowned as the center of Peruvian fine-flavor premium cacao production. The region plays a crucial role in the global specialty chocolate market by maintaining traditional cultivation methods.
Visiting
Many of the working cacao farms and cooperatives generally welcome visitors interested in learning about the agricultural process from bean to bar. Guided agricultural tours are typically available, allowing guests to walk through the shaded groves.
Where to view it
The lush, terraced hillsides surrounding Quillabamba offer excellent vantage points to appreciate the extensive cultivation areas blending into the jungle. Walking paths on the farm estates themselves provide close-up views of the spirited cacao pods growing on the tree trunks.
Local products
Travelers will easily find a wide array of artisanal chocolate products, roasted beans, and raw cacao nibs in local markets and farm shops. Additionally, tropical fruits cultivated alongside the cacao are commonly available in the surrounding town centers.
Active season
The main harvest season, which typically occurs during the drier months between April and August, is the most dynamic time to witness the full processing sequence. Visiting during this peak time ensures the estates are busy with harvesting and fermenting activities.
Nearby
A visit to these agricultural lands pairs perfectly with exploring the majestic archaeological sites of the broader Cusco region or venturing deeper into the Andean cloud forests. The animated markets of Quillabamba itself also make for a culturally rich addition to the itinerary.
Geography
Facts
- Quillabamba is the capital of La Convención, the largest province in the Cusco region.
- Famous for 'Cacao Chuncho', an native variety considered one of the finest in the world.
- The region holds the 'Festival of the Cacao and Coffee' every year in July.
- Farms are located at altitudes between 700 and 1,200 meters in the cloud forest edge.
- Many local cooperatives export their cacao directly to premium chocolate makers in Europe.
- The area also produces exceptional coffee, tea, and tropical fruits like pineapples.
- Cacao cultivation is a vital sustainable alternative to other less environmentally friendly crops.
- The 'Chuncho' cacao is known for its high fat content and delicate floral notes.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Quillabamba Cacao Farms (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Quillabamba known for?
For the production of high-quality organic cocoa.
Can you taste the cocoa beans?
Yes, this is included in farm tours.
What is the climate like?
Warm and tropical, first-rate for cocoa cultivation.
When is the best time to travel?
The dry season between June and September.
Do I need a guide for the farms?
Yes, to get access to the facilities.
Quillabamba Cacao Farms: where is it located?
Quillabamba Cacao Farms is located in Peru.
Quillabamba Cacao Farms: what is there to see?
Highlights include Teatro Municipal, Museo Amazónico Andino, Sambaray.
Quillabamba Cacao Farms: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Quillabamba Cacao Farms: why is it worth visiting?
Quillabamba, the 'City of Eternal Summer', is the gateway to the lush tropical valleys of the Cusco region and a premier center for high-quality cacao production.
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History & landmarks
Choquequirao
An impressive Inca city in southern Peru, architecturally very similar to Machu Picchu, but much more isolated.
Machu Picchu
The famous Inca citadel high in the Andes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a wonder of the world.
Ollantaytambo
One of the best-preserved Inca towns with an impressive fortress, located in the Sacred Valley.
Moray
An Inca archaeological site consisting of deep, circular terraces dug into the earth.
Sacsayhuamán
A massive Inca fortress near Cusco, known for its massive, seamlessly fitted stone blocks.
Cusco Cathedral
The magnificent main church on the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, built on the foundations of an ancient Inca palace.
Cristo Blanco
A large white statue of Jesus on Pukamoqo Hill, watching over the city of Cusco with open arms.
Coricancha
The most important sun temple of the Inca Empire in Cusco, upon whose ruins the Spanish built the Church of Santo Domingo.
Nature
More places
Vilcabamba
The last refuge of the Inca Empire before the complete conquest by the Spanish.
Machupicchu Butterfly House
An educational center and sanctuary for butterflies near the famous ruins, showing the life cycle of local species.
Salcantay
Salcantay is the highest peak in the Cordillera Vilcabamba and a famous alternative trekking peak en route to Machu Picchu.
🗺️
Camisea Gas Project
A major natural gas extraction project located in the Amazon rainforest of the Cusco region.
Megantoni Sanctuary
A hard-to-reach protected region that forms a vital bridge between the Andean highlands and the Amazon rainforest.
Otishi National Park
A protected mountain forest in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, rich in waterfalls and endemic species.
Qorikancha
The most important temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti, on which the Spanish built a monastery.
Puka Pukara
An Inca military ruin whose name means 'Red Fortress'.