Joya de Cerén & Cacao Estate: Mayan Heritage & the Drink of the Gods
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Port
Acajutla, El Salvador
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$154
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Step back in time to explore the deep-rooted heritage of the Mayan civilization and its most sacred crop — cacao.
Enjoy a scenic drive to the Joya de Cerén UNESCO World Heritage Site, known locally as the Pompeii of the Americas. Buried under volcanic ash more than 1,400 years ago, this remarkably preserved farming village offers a rare and intimate look into the everyday lives, homes, and traditions of the ancient Maya, far removed from the grand ceremonial pyramids.
Transition from historical ruins to the lush landscapes of the Izalco volcanic region, arriving at the authentic Finca Cuyancua farm. Here, you will explore the fascinating world of Mesoamerican cacao — a revered ancestral crop celebrated globally today as a powerful superfood. Stroll through the beautiful plantation to learn about its cultivation before participating in a fully hands-on workshop. Using traditional stone tools, you will roast and grind raw cacao beans just as the indigenous people did centuries ago.
This immersive experience culminates in crafting and tasting the authentic drink of the gods — a rich, hot, and revitalizing cacao beverage (distinctly different from modern commercial chocolate), enjoyed alongside a traditional Salvadoran snack in the peaceful embrace of nature.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.