For every true coffee lover, coffee farm tours are a perfect adventure. They have travel, culture, nature, and of course, coffee.
Here are some things you need to know before you embark on this aromatic journey.
Best coffee farms to visit
The so-called coffee bean belt is an area spanning the globe that is known for coffee production. The size and impact of the production varies from country to country but that’s not the only difference. All of them grow very different and very distinctive types of coffees.
So, you can visit and tour coffee farms in any of the many countries, depending on what your travel (and coffee) goals are.
To help you narrow the selection, here are the top five destinations offering coffee farm tours on the bean belt.
Colombia
Due to many tropical micro-climates that make an ideal environment for coffee production, it’s not a surprise that Colombia is one of the most prominent coffee destinations. The diversity of its coffee is enormous, however, it is mostly recognized for its mild, well-balanced, and yet rich taste, with slight citrus-like acidity.
Many of the Colombian coffee plantations offer all-around tours (both in English and Spanish) that cover every aspect of the coffee-making process. On some coffee farm tours, you can even find accommodation and spend the night.
Hawaii
This group of islands are more than just a popular holiday getaway, with sandy beaches and colorful cocktails. With its warm climate, it is also one of the most desirable coffee destinations.
Their well-known Kona coffee is grown in the higher elevation land that has a constant cloud coverage and is rich with volcanic soil.
Due to these optimal conditions, Hawaii is the only US state that is suitable for coffee production.
Panama
In Panama, you can visit plantations that produce Geisha (or Gesha) coffee. It is a rare and expensive type of coffee, with an enticing blueberry aroma and a taste that is similar to Earl Grey.
Some of the plantations in Panama even offer accommodation for the visitors. Imagine waking up to the breathtaking view of the mountains of Boquete and the irresistible smell of freshly brewed coffee.
Thailand
Thailand is not as big coffee producing Asian country as, for example, Vietnam or Indonesia.
However, it is a place where you can find luxury black ivory, coffee that’s naturally refined by elephants, which makes it one of the rarest and most expensive coffees in the world.
A pound of this coffee can set you back as much as 1500$. The steep price is worthy of a true coffee aficionado.
Tanzania
If you’re interested in sightseeing and exploring the incredibly exciting and unique wildlife while you enjoy your coffee, then Tanzania is the place to be.
It has various types of coffee, depending on the region but Tanzanian coffee is mostly characterized as a medium to full body with a very distinctive acidity and rich flavor to it.
Other than its cultivated species, wild coffee species are still being discovered in certain areas of Tanzania.
Necessary Preparations
In order to get the most out of this trip, proper preparation is key. Different plantations offer different coffee farm tours and experiences, and if you do your research, you can choose the one that suits your adventure and travel aspirations the best.
You will not only learn a lot about coffee but you also might even be able to see how it’s made and taste the freshly made coffee while you spend a few days at the plantation.
Is there a better goal for this trip?
Other than the general goals of the journey, there are some additional things you should keep in mind:
- Clothes – it mostly depends on where you decide to go but the chances are you will need comfortable shoes, a backpack with essentials, something to cover your head, and clothes that cover your arms and legs to protect you from the sun and mosquitoes
- Physical preparation – there will be a lot of walking and hiking so some cardio exercises before the trip would be highly beneficial.
Regarding anything else, if you’re in a dilemma, don’t hesitate to ask questions, that is the best way to learn as much as possible
Additional note: Being at least a little familiar with the native language can certainly be an advantage. It is not a necessity since you will probably travel with a guide but it can help you appreciate and enjoy the local culture to the fullest.
Enjoying the local culture
No matter where you decide to go, try to immerse yourself in the local culture.
There is no better way to experience the whole journey than appreciating, respecting, and embracing cultural differences and connecting with local people, especially the farmers. You might learn fascinating facts and even some secrets that you perhaps wouldn’t hear from a guide on an organized coffee tour.
With these carefully selected recommendations and tips, you are one step closer to fulfilling your coffee-infused traveling plans. All you have to do now is make those plans a reality and start this unique journey.