In the mountains of Antioquia the internal conflict of Colombia affected for decades the local communities. Small-scale farmers of the region were surrounded by bombings, shootings and other war related crimes and violence. Nowadays thanks to several social and environmental projects as chocolate there is hope within the communities and more displaced farmers return to their lands.
This unique day-trip takes you deep into the Eastern highlands of Antioquia. Visit a community run cacao project, sponsored by the United Nations to support the local farmers to leave illegal coca crops. The artisanal chocolate production is coordinated by local women and combines the conservation of endemic tropical forests and sustainable agriculture. Meet local farmers and learn everything about cacao plantation while getting an understanding of the conflict`s history and the lives of the local communities and small-scale farmers during the long years of civil war and support the local farmer families
The idyllic village of San Francisco with its pristine rivers and sub-tropical climate is perfect for growing cacao. Visit a community chocolate project and learn everything about cacao plantation.
Pickup included
During the last decade chocolate has become important as an alternative crop for farmers and regions involved in Coca production. In the mountains of Antioquia the internal conflict of Colombia affected for decades the local communities. Small-scale farmers of the region were surrounded by crimes and violence. Growing coca was almost the only way to survive due to the remote location and lack of opportunities. Just a decade ago in the Eastern highlands, the war ended and paramilitary and guerrilla groups left the region. Nowadays thanks to several social and environmental projects there is hope within the communities and more and more displaced farmers return to their lands. To help small-scale farmers to leave the illegal plantations and integrate them again into society several programs by the European Union and the United Nations invested in infrastructure of the rural area of the Eastern Antioquia and trained farmers and the local communities in sustainable agriculture.
This unique day-trip takes you deep into the Eastern highlands of Antioquia. Visit a community run cacao project, sponsored by the United Nations to support the local farmers to leave illegal coca crops. The artisanal chocolate production is coordinated by local women and combines the conservation of endemic tropical forests and sustainable agriculture. Meet local farmers and learn everything about cacao plantation while getting an understanding of the conflict`s history and the lives of the local communities and small-scale farmers during the long years of civil war and support their new perspectives and support directly local farmer families
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
We will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel/apartment. Pick-up and drop-off service out of the urban perimeter has an additional charge.
Thank you for your interest in Colombia! We are available and ready to answer any questions about the tour or to attend any special request you have. Feel free to contact us if you need it! Regards from Medellín, Colombia. Palenque Tours Colombia