Nestled high in the lush mountains of Turrialba, Aquiares is home to the largest contiguous coffee farm in Costa Rica. It is a place where the community and the coffee company have developed together, forming a truly symbiotic relationship.
The History of Aquiares
Aquiares was founded in 1890 by farmers looking to take advantage of Costa Rica’s new railway to the port of Limón on the Caribbean coast. The farm built its processing facilities, focusing on the washed coffee processes indicative of Costa Rican coffee. Soon, the quality of Aquiares’ coffee attracted loyal customers in Europe, the United States and Japan.
The farm and the community are mutually connected. The farm provides services, land, security and honest jobs. In return, the coffee farm has benefited from a well-educated community with highly skilled professionals to keep it going.
Aquiares is not only the largest coffee farm in Costa Rica, but a proven model of regenerative agriculture. They are Rainforest Alliance certified and the first coffee farm to achieve carbon neutrality. This commitment provides a healthy home to endemic animals, plants and countless species of birds.
Coffee is just the beginning
Aquiares is a paradise nestled amidst 600 hectares of lush, shady coffee plantations and 200 hectares of protected rainforest. Among the activities that visitors can enjoy, the coffee tour is a must. As well as learning how exceptional coffee is made, they can taste the finished product.
Horseback riding around picturesque Hacienda trails and bird watching are also fantastic ways to enjoy the surroundings and experience life on a coffee farm.
Stay at Casa La Esperanza
La Esperanza is a century-old hacienda house located in the centre of the Aquiares estate. It is a beautiful and relaxing place offering a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the coffee estate. Visitors can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals surrounded by breathtaking views. The coffee estate’s boutique house is full of history, artwork and memorabilia. Guests at La Esperanza enjoy a 2-acre private garden with examples of the area’s amazing biodiversity.
For more information on visiting Aquiares Coffee Farm and Casa La Esperanza or any other destinations in Costa Rica, please contact katrina@americas.co.uk
To discover more about our partner Camino Travel, visit their partner page here.
