Peruvian Flavors: The Coffee Route Across Three Regions

Is brewing a cup of freshly made coffee one of your first morning rituals? In that case, you are one of us. Nothing compares to the smell, taste, and feeling of a freshly brewed mug of aromatic coffee.

Peru is well known for producing some of the best coffee beans in the world due to its ideal climate, vast land, and environmentally friendly cultivation methods. Following the coffee route from the Andean highlands to the Amazon jungle, the Peru coffee trail offers a unique opportunity to learn about the production and history of Peruvian coffee. 

The Most Popular Drink in the World

Coffee is not just one of the most consumed drinks in the world, but it also has numerous health properties. For example, its antioxidants regulate cholesterol and glucose levels. Lately, Peru has become a leader in exporting coffee. Its delicious aroma and flavor make it the favorite of people around the world.

After Ethiopia, Peru is the second-largest exporter of organic coffee in the world, a fact that speaks well of Peruvian coffee quality. According to the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI),  around 233,000 families contribute to the coffee industry by growing these high-quality beans. In the first two months of 2024 alone, our coffee exports have brought in an impressive USD 132 million.

Peruvian coffee keeps earning a reputation as one of the world’s best.

Although we’ll see only 4 coffee cities in Peru, 14 departments in Peru make coffee production. According to the official webpage of the Peruvian Tourism Office, PROMPERU in 2023, the United States imported 28% of our coffee exports, and we also made significant shipments to Germany, Belgium, Sweden, the Netherlands, Italy, France, and the United Kingdom.

As we said before, the key for our coffee to be so delicious is Peru’s land diversity, which is reflected in three distinct regions: the highlands called “Sierra,” the Amazon rain forest called “Jungle,” and the coast side called “Costa.” These regions make coffee production possible and varied. So, join us as we see the main coffee production cities where you can taste Peru’s best drinks. Let’s see!

Cusco

In case you were unaware, Cusco boasts a jungle region situated approximately 2000 meters above sea level. Lucmabamba village is located in the province of La Convencion, close to Santa Teresa village. Three associations dedicated to coffee production are located in this small community, which is well-known for its coffee production.

Lucmabammba is a little town, but its favorable geography and climate make it the perfect location for coffee bean cultivation. Here, you may experience the warmth of the locals while getting a close-up view of the coffee growing, harvesting, and processing processes. Discover the secrets of several roasting techniques, including artisanal roasting, which enable the creation of distinctive and tasty coffee. 

Jaen

Jaen is a beautiful province in Cajamarca, famous for its amazing coffee valleys; one standout is Finca Alto Mirador. In 2023, it won a prize called “Taza de Excelencia” which awards the best coffee samples in the country. Even judges and coffee experts from all around the world gathered for this event. After an arduous competition of 302 participants, Finca Alto was the winner.

You should try this coffee or take some bags with you to your country. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a fun experience, Finca Santa Fe and La Arboleda welcome visitors to learn all about the coffee-making process and enjoy its rich flavors. In San Ignacio, you can also explore the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and its coffee treasures. Don’t miss attractions like Quinta San Antonio and Los Pinos farms too!

Oxapampa

Around 1,600 meters above sea level, we have Oxapampa, a gorgeous village in the heart of the Peruvian Andes and at the edge of the Peruvian jungle. This village has a strong German and Austrian influence and houses one of the best coffees in Peru.

Villa Rica is one district of Oxapamopa, which offers a wide range of coffee varieties, each with a distinct flavor and aroma that guarantees an outstanding cup of coffee. The Villa Rica Coffee Festival brings the district to life each year.  

Visitors can sample coffee in all its forms and discover more about the goods made from it in this area. Additionally, it’s a chance to talk to coffee growers and discover more about their passion and art.  Villa Rica coffees are produced on shaded farms in a biodiversity-friendly environment.

These include varieties such as Bourbon, Caturra, Catimores, Pache, and Typica, grown at altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 1,800 meters above sea level. The agroecological practices ensure a high-quality organic product and a consistent cup, allowing for sustainable production with economic viability, environmental awareness, and social security.

Chanchamayo

Chanchamayo, nestled in the beautiful Junín region, is truly the heart of coffee production in Peru. Its stunning mountains and subtropical climate create a perfect setting for growing high-quality coffee. This area is a favorite spot for coffee lovers and nature fans, thanks to the lush Central Jungle that surrounds it.

Local farmers use traditional and eco-friendly methods to process the beans, ensuring a great organic coffee. Chanchamayo is especially known for its Arabica coffee, which is loved for its smooth and fruity flavor.

One of the best ways to explore this delightful region is by following the Coffee Route. This journey takes you from the farm to your cup. It starts with the careful handpicking of ripe coffee cherries during harvest time.

After that, the cherries are processed to remove any impurities. Then, the beans are sun-dried and roasted to bring out their unique flavors. Finally, you can savor fresh coffee tastings at local cafés, where you can enjoy the rich flavors and wonderful aromas that Chanchamayo has to offer.

From Farm to Cup: The Coffee Process

Harvesting: The journey begins on farms, where workers hand-pick ripe coffee cherries during the harvest season to ensure quality.

Processing: The harvested beans are washed and separated from their pulp, a crucial step for removing impurities.

Support local producers buying high-quality coffee!

Drying: Beans are sun-dried for several days to achieve the ideal moisture level, preserving flavor and quality.

Roasting: Expert roasters enhance the beans’ unique profiles through careful roasting at various temperatures.

Tasting: The final experience is a coffee tasting at local cafés, where you can savor the freshly roasted coffee and appreciate its rich flavors and aromas.


We ensure the Peruvian coffee will please your taste buds; what you have to do first is come to Peru. When in Peru, choose Viagens Machu Picchu. It will make your stay in Peru one to remember for life. Contact our specialists to start living your Peruvian dream!.

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