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Welcome to a truly unforgettable experience that will awaken your senses and transport you into the heart of Costa Rica's rich chocolate culture. At Matty's Pura Vida Bookings, we invite you on a captivating journey to discover the finest chocolate varieties in the world, all while immersing yourself in the captivating traditions and vibrant flavors of Costa Rican cacao. Nestled in the lush landscapes of this tropical paradise, our exclusive Costa Rican Chocolate Experience offers more than just a tasting — it's a sensory voyage through the origins, artistry, and deep cultural significance of chocolate that has been cherished by local communities for centuries. Step into the world of cacao, where the magical transformation begins. Guided by expert chocolatiers, you will sample an array of handcrafted chocolates, each with its own unique flavor profile that reflects the diverse regions of Costa Rica and the distinct cacao varieties grown here. From the rich, velvety smoothness of milk chocolate to the bold intensity of dark chocolate, each bite tells the story of the land it was born from — rich volcanic soils, temperate climates, and generations of farmers who have perfected the art of cacao cultivation. With every morsel, you will learn to appreciate the delicate nuances of flavor and texture that make Costa Rican chocolate one of the finest in the world. But this experience is more than just about indulgence. It’s about connecting to the roots of chocolate through its rich cultural history. Costa Rica's cacao has played a vital role in the lives of indigenous communities for centuries, and throughout your journey, you’ll uncover the fascinating rituals and traditions that have made cacao a central part of local spirituality, social life, and economy. From the sacred cacao blessings once performed by ancient tribes to its role as currency and even an aphrodisiac, you will discover the deep connections that chocolate has to Costa Rican culture. As you participate in these time-honored traditions, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where chocolate is not just a treat, but a symbol of life, connection, and community. In this immersive tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to engage in the entire chocolate-making process, from bean to bar. Your adventure begins in the cacao fields, where you will learn how to hand-select ripe cacao pods, carefully extract the beans, and participate in traditional fermentation and drying techniques that unlock the full depth of flavor. Then, journey into the world of chocolate production, where you’ll work alongside local chocolatiers to roast, grind, and refine the beans into smooth, silky chocolate. This hands-on, bean-to-bar experience will not only deepen your understanding of the art of chocolate-making but will also allow you to create your very own custom chocolate bars, adding your personal touch to every step of the process. Of course, no tour is complete without savoring the fruits of your labor. As you sit down to enjoy the chocolate you’ve created, you’ll find yourself reflecting on the craftsmanship, passion, and tradition that went into every bite. Whether you are an experienced chocolate connoisseur or simply someone who loves a good treat, this experience promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the artistry behind each bar and the cultural significance that makes Costa Rican chocolate so exceptional. The tour lasts approximately one and a half hours, and you are free to wear clothes and shoes of your choice. However, it is important to bring an umbrella or poncho due to the frequent rains, especially in the winter season in Costa Rica. As part of your experience, you will explore the Mayan house, drink the sacred 'Drink of the Gods,' visit the plantation, fermentation, and drying areas, tour the chocolate factory, and experience the unique chocolate cave. You’ll also enjoy chocolate tasting, make your own chocolate paste with your favorite ingredients, and savor delicious chocolate ice cream. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to visit the museum, photo gallery, coconut oil factory, trails, lakes, and chocolate wine area. We offer both private and non-private tours to suit your needs: - Non-private tour: $45 per adult, $35 per child (ages 5-11) - Private tour: $65 per adult, $55 per child Transportation service is available, and to make a reservation, simply let us know the desired time and date, the number of people, the type of tour, and whether you require transportation. Join us at Matty's Pura Vida Bookings for a sweet, unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories, new skills, and a deep appreciation for the world of Costa Rican chocolate.
Begin your adventure at the cacao farm with a warm welcome from your guide. Get an overview of the day’s itinerary and learn about the importance of cacao in Costa Rican culture and history.
Take a scenic walk through the lush cacao fields. Learn how Costa Rican farmers cultivate cacao and discover the different cacao varieties that contribute to the country's rich chocolate heritage.
Get your hands dirty as you select ripe cacao pods and help extract the cacao beans. This hands-on activity connects you directly to the roots of chocolate making, giving you a deeper appreciation of the process.
Learn the traditional methods of chocolate preparation by grinding cacao beans with ancient tools. Participate in crafting your own chocolate, from roasting to refining, and add your own creative touch to the process.
Experience a sacred cacao blessing, a traditional ritual that connects you to the spiritual significance of cacao. Learn about its role in ancient indigenous ceremonies and its symbolic meaning in Costa Rican culture.
Savor a guided chocolate tasting experience where you'll sample a variety of chocolates, from milk to dark. Explore the distinct flavors and aromas of Costa Rican chocolate, and learn how to discern the subtle differences between them.
Enjoy a delicious, locally inspired lunch featuring Costa Rican specialties. This is a great opportunity to relax, chat with your guide, and reflect on your chocolate-making journey.
Conclude your tour with a visit to a local chocolate shop, where you can purchase handmade, artisanal chocolate to take home. Browse a variety of chocolates and bring a piece of Costa Rica's sweet heritage with you.
After your memorable experience, you'll be transported back to your hotel in Jaco, with plenty of chocolatey memories to savor long after the tour.
Lock in your dream tour early for a seamless experience—enjoy ultimate comfort and hassle-free adventure from start to finish!