Traditional Chocolate Making in Belize

Maya Centre, BZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (12 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    All Fees and Taxes
  • inclusion
    Bottled water
  • inclusion
    In-vehicle air conditioning

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
All Seasons Belize
Almond Beach Resort at Jaguar Reef
Beaches and Dreams
Belizean Dreams Resort
Blue Parrot Beach House and Villas
Coconut Row Boutique Hotel
Cosmopolitan Guest House
Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort
Hopkins Bay, a Muy'Ono Resort
Parrot Cove Lodge
Seiri Del Mar
The Lodge At Jaguar Reef
Villa Margarita at Jaguar Reef

What to expect

1
Che'il Mayan Products

The Chocolate Making Sessions at a living Mayan Museum offers you the BEST of Real Mayan Culture and its authenticity. Experience the traditional Mayan way of making chocolate from bean to bar. Cacao Beans are grown by local farmers in Maya Center Village and is certified Organic. Take a short walk to the cacao farm to learn about how cacao trees are cultivated.. The trained farmer will give you a detailed explanation and process of how the beans are extracted from the pods and then fermented and finally dried and ready to be processed into chocolate. You will roast your own cacao beans on the clay griddle, just like how the Mayans did. Making chocolate on the Mayan grinding stone is a lot of fun! The cacao beans being ground on the grinding stone gets magical as you witness your chocolate beginning to unfold. What is more exciting is that you get to eat your own chocolate! The tour is very educational and hands on. You have got to do it.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Get to Know Belize Adventures

What our experts say

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    Bring a camera for great photos
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    Try the organic chocolate you make
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    Visit nearby Mayan ruins afterward
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    Local restaurants serve delicious meals
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the rich history and authentic traditions of chocolate making on the Traditional Chocolate Making Tour in Belize. Immerse yourself in the world of cacao as you explore a local cacao farm and learn about the intricate process of turning cacao pods into delicious chocolate. This immersive experience will take you through each step of the traditional chocolate making process, from grinding the cacao into a paste to tasting your very own homemade chocolate. Get ready for a hands-on journey into the Mayan culture and its deep connection with cacao.

What to Expect?

During this 180-minute tour, you can expect to embark on a captivating adventure through the world of chocolate making. The tour begins with a walk through a cacao farm where you will witness cacao pods fresh off the tree, still covered in sweet fleshy fruit. A trained farmer will guide you through the entire chocolate making process, explaining how the beans are extracted, fermented, dried, and prepared for grinding. You will have the opportunity to roast your own cacao beans on a clay griddle, just like the Mayans did centuries ago. The highlight of the experience is using a traditional Mayan grinding stone to transform the cacao beans into a rich chocolate paste. Finally, you will have the pleasure of tasting organic chocolate made by your own hands.

Who is this for?

The Traditional Chocolate Making Tour is ideal for chocolate enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking an immersive cultural experience. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour is suitable for all ages and backgrounds. It is perfect for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and want to learn about the Mayan culture's deep connection with cacao. By embracing this hands-on experience, you will gain insight into the ancient traditions of chocolate making and the significance of cacao in Mayan culture.

Why Book This?

Unleash your inner chocolatier and embark on this extraordinary journey that brings history to life. The Traditional Chocolate Making Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the roots of chocolate making and contribute to the preservation of Mayan traditions. By participating in this tour, you will not only gain knowledge about the art of chocolate making but also support local farmers and their sustainable practices. This interactive experience allows you to witness the transformation of cacao beans into chocolate right before your eyes, ensuring a memorable and educational adventure.

Good to Know

During the tour, you will have the chance to create your own chocolate paste, which will later set in the fridge for you to enjoy the taste of organic chocolate made by your own hands. The duration of the tour is approximately 180 minutes, providing ample time to fully immerse yourself in the chocolate making process. Remember to wear comfortable clothing and footwear as you explore the cacao farm. Don't forget to bring your adventurous spirit and a camera to capture this unique journey into the world of chocolate making.

Reviews

Feedback from individuals who have participated in the Traditional Chocolate Making Tour has been overwhelmingly positive. Travelers have praised the hands-on nature of the experience and the wealth of knowledge gained about cacao and Mayan culture. They mention the joy of grinding their own cacao beans on the Mayan grinding stone and the delicious reward of tasting their homemade chocolate. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to support local farmers and experience the authenticity of the Mayan traditions. Overall, participants have expressed their satisfaction with the tour, highlighting it as an informative, engaging, and enjoyable experience.

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