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Diogo Vaz Cocoa Farm
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The Diogo Vaz cocoa farm is a pioneer in organic and fair-trade cocoa cultivation in São Tomé. After the decline of the colonial roça economy, Diogo Vaz revived cocoa production with a modern, sustainable approach. The farm cultivates old, native cocoa varieties known for their complex flavor profiles. The entire process, from the fermentation and drying of the beans to the production of chocolate, takes place on-site (bean-to-bar). This allows for complete quality control and creates higher added value on the island. Diogo Vaz has guided tours where visitors can follow the journey from the cocoa pod to the finished chocolate bar. The farm is also socially engaged, investing in the local community by supporting schools and healthcare.
- Location: São Tomé & Príncipe
- Nearby: Generosa (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 125 | 115 | 162 | 176 | 129 | 44 | 23 | 19 | 35 | 100 | 142 | 130 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Diogo Vaz farm is a significant center for growing high-quality fine cocoa on the west coast. It preserves traditional cultivation methods and produces beans with a distinctive flavor.
Visiting
The farm is privately owned, but some areas can be visited on guided tours that can be booked on site. Access is via a gravel road from the main track.
Where to view it
From the hill behind the fermentation facilities, there is a good view over the terraced cocoa plantings. The coastal road also provides vistas of the shaded agroforestry areas.
Local products
The farm shop sells dried cocoa beans and chocolate bars from its own production. Seasonal products such as fresh tropical fruits complement the offer when they are being harvested.
Active season
The main cocoa harvest occurs from October to January, then the farm is in peak season with many harvest workers. In the dry season from June to August, trees are pruned and maintained.
Nearby
The farm is located near pretty west coast beaches, suitable for a beach day. A trip to other historic cocoa plantations on the island can also be easily combined.
Geography
Facts
- Pioneer in organic cocoa cultivation on São Tomé.
- Produces 'bean-to-bar' chocolate.
- Cultivates old, native cocoa varieties.
- Fair-trade certified, supporting local farmers.
- Offers chocolate tastings and farm tours.
- Invests in social projects like schools.
- Maintains the tradition of high-quality cocoa farming.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Diogo Vaz Cocoa Farm (1)
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Frequently asked questions
Is a guided tour possible?
Yes, highly recommended.
Can I buy chocolate?
Yes, farm-gate sales are excellent.
How much time should I allocate?
Plan for about 2 hours.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is parking available on-site.
Is it barrier-free?
Partly difficult due to uneven ground.
Diogo Vaz Cocoa Farm: where is it located?
Diogo Vaz Cocoa Farm is located in São Tomé & Príncipe.
Diogo Vaz Cocoa Farm: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Diogo Vaz Cocoa Farm: why is it worth visiting?
The Diogo Vaz cocoa farm is a pioneer in organic and fair-trade cocoa cultivation in São Tomé.
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