When it comes to chocolate, you can think of Belgium or Switzerland as the top chocolate makers in the world, popular not only for their quality but also for their delicious taste. However, in recent years, the chocolate industry in Peru has been growing quickly.
According to statistics, Peru is in the top three cacao exporters in the world, which means that Peru is making a name for itself as a great cacao producer.
If you’re a chocoholic, then you’re in the right place, because we’ll see what the “Cacao Route” in our country has to offer. Prepare for a trip where you’ll learn ancient traditions of cacao in Peru, see the chocolate-making process, and visit places where you can enjoy it. Let’s get into it!
The Chocolate in Peru
Although many people believe cacao originated in Central America, recent studies show it may have begun in Montegrande, a town in Cajamarca Province, over 5,000 years ago. There, locals domesticated and cultivated it.
Peruvian archaeologist Quirino Olivera Núñez has found exciting evidence of cacao cultivation. He suggests that cacao’s history in our country may extend to the Amazon rainforest. Cacao was also an important part of ancient Peruvians’ beliefs, practices, and ceremonies, even before the Inca Empire.
In Montegrande, archaeologists found ceremonial vessels containing cacao starch. Around 100 to 800 AD, the Moche culture created beautiful pottery featuring cacao pods.
These amazing findings connect cacao-growing areas in the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Amazon. So, we can conclude that the Amazon indigenous peoples used cacao in ceremonies long before it became known in Central America.
Why is it so special?
Today, cacao grows in 16 of Peru’s 24 departments. Over 100,000 families work in this important industry. Cacao is mainly produced in San Martín, Cusco, and Ucayali. Many experts call Peruvian cacao “fine and aromatic,” and thanks to that, American and European markets recognize its quality.
Peruvian cacao is now among the world’s best. We can affirm that the diverse climate and rich soil make possible high-quality cacao. The most common varieties are the native, criollo, and nacional. People and experts describe our cacao for its complex taste, which mixes floral, fruity, and aromatic flavors.
The cities included in this cacao route are just a few that Peru has to offer. From craft chocolate to cacao tea, you can find all cacao derivates with the best quality all over our country!
Chocolate Route Cities
Cusco
Although Cusco, the ancient inca capital is popular for its archaeological parks, culture, and beautiful squares, it’s probably the place where you can get the best cacao in the country. You may think that, due to its high altitude Cusco is not the right place for chocolate,.
Nonetheless, Cusco province has rainforest areas that create a unique, delicious chocolate flavor. The “Quillabamba’s cacao Chuncho” is a special cacao variety from Peru that many love for its wonderful flavor and quality.
This native cacao is made in small amounts, just 1,000 tons a year. The production focuses on the small Echarati Village, where it is exported to different parts of the world. The cacao chuncho is a symbol and proof of cultural heritage for Cusqueños.
A Must-Visit Spot: ChocoMuseo in Cusco will provide you with a fun, interactive, and delicious experience. In this museum, you can discover cacao history in Peru, see how chocolate is made, and even create their own chocolate bars!
Also, this museum offers tours of nearby cacao farms, you can see the whole process from cacao trees to delicious, bean-to-bar chocolate.
San Martin
Tocache is a tiny town in the San Martin department. Here, you can learn all about the journey from farming to fine chocolate production. Lately, this town has become famous for its high-quality chocolate, with concentrations reaching up to 50%.
As you explore this route, you’ll see how people transform cacao beans into delicious treats. Although this sweet, tasty experience is one to remember, it also tells a lovely story of change. Tocache people have overcome troubles, but now have a successful cacao economy, known for its quality worldwide.
As a visitor, you’ll get to enjoy “single-origin chocolate,” which highlights the unique tastes of each region. Tours usually take 3 to 7 days and are best enjoyed from June to December, right during the harvest season. This is a fantastic opportunity for both adults and children to have fun and learn together!
A Must-Visit Spot: Allima Cacao is a trade group cooperative that teaches quality control for fine, aromatic cacao. You can taste and buy the different kinds of quality chocolate products that they offer, or see the farms where one of the best chocolates in the world is made.
Tingo Maria
Tingo Maria is located in the Huanuco province, at the foothills of the Peruvian rainforest. Some years ago, this charming small town was the perfect place for drug dealers to get coca leaves, which were misused by these criminals.
Now, Tingo Maria has turned 180 degrees. It has left the coca behind and focused on growing cacao. Tingo Maria is now a key cacao-producing area in Peru. The local cacao cooperatives show how communities can work together.
Sustainability and flavor
Chocolate tourism in Peru offers tasty treats and supports local communities. Many cacao farms there follow fair-trade principles, ensuring fair pay for farmers. These farms also practice organic, sustainable methods, protecting Peru’s environment and biodiversity.
By supporting these producers, you support the cacao boosting in the industry and improve farmers’ lives. The cacao route is a fun way to see Peru: You can enjoy great landscapes, history, and culture. Plus, you can enjoy top-notch chocolate. From the Andes to the jungle forest, each region has its unique cacao story. This journey, for chocolate lovers, offers tastings. It supports sustainable practices in a beautiful setting.
Peru offers many experiences to suit all people, so we hope you can visit our country, with your partner, family, or on your own. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, or a tasty bar, or learn about the history of a humble but useful fruit.
Remember that Viagens Machu Picchu can help you out with your trip to Peru. We operate around Peru and all its destinations, doing our best to convey the best of our country. Contact us to arrange your trip to the land of chocolate and the Incas.
Viagens Machu Picchu, journeys that inspire, moments that last.