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Costa Rica Coffee: From Bean to Cup

  • Writer: Alejandro Saravia
    Alejandro Saravia
  • Aug 27, 2025
  • 1 min read

Costa Rica isn’t just paradise for beaches and wildlife — it’s also a coffee lover’s dream. With its volcanic soil, perfect altitude, and tropical climate, the country produces some of the best Arabica coffee in the world.


A Bit of History

Coffee was introduced in Costa Rica in the 18th century and quickly became a major export. Today, it’s not just a crop — it’s part of the national identity.


Coffee Regions in Costa Rica

Each region produces coffee with unique flavor notes:
  • Central Valley: Mild and balanced, near San José.
  • Tarrazu: Known for strong, full-bodied, slightly fruity coffee.
  • West Valley: Smooth with chocolatey undertones.
  • Guanacaste: Drier climate, lighter beans with nutty notes.
  • Caribbean Coast: Rich, earthy flavors with lower acidity.


How Coffee Is Grown

  • Only Arabica beans are grown commercially.
  • Hand-picked for quality and sorted meticulously.
  • Often grown on family-run plantations, providing a local, authentic experience.


Coffee Tours & Experiences

Lush green hills with dense vegetation under cloudy skies. Trees and plants cover the landscape, evoking a serene, natural mood.
Tourists can visit coffee plantations for:
  • Guided walks through the fields.
  • Learning traditional roasting methods.
  • Tasting freshly brewed coffee.
  • Buying specialty blends directly from the farm.


Brewing Costa Rican Coffee

  • Traditional method: Boiling coffee in a metal pot, often served black or with milk.
  • Specialty brewing: Pour-over or French press in modern cafés.
  • Always enjoy with pura vida spirit — savor, relax, and chat with locals.


Why Coffee Matters for Tourists

  • Cultural insight: Learn how coffee shaped Costa Rica’s economy and lifestyle.
  • Unique souvenirs: High-quality beans make perfect gifts.
  • Experiential tourism: Hands-on tours create unforgettable memories.


Let Your Local Amigos plan a coffee-focused itinerary, including plantation tours, tastings, and the best cafés in the country, so you can experience Costa Rica like a true coffee connoisseur.



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