Las Marias Origin
Las Marías Origin is located near Río Dulce in the Caribbean region of Guatemala, at kilometer 305.5 on the road to Cadenas. The farm encompasses approximately 800 hectares, of which 238 hectares are dedicated to certified organic cacao production.
Las Marías combines large-scale cacao cultivation with agroecological management and forest conservation. Significant portions of the property are protected through government-supported forest incentive programs, preserving important ecosystems and endangered native tree species.
While cacao is the primary crop, the farm integrates a simple but well-managed agroforestry system that includes native timber species such as Rosul and Mahogany. Great attention is given to cacao cultivation from the nursery stage through harvest, with ongoing pruning, soil regeneration, and biological management practices.
We believe their model demonstrates how responsible agriculture can generate positive environmental and social impacts while maintaining high-quality cacao production.
ORDER CACAOKAMPURA,
IZABAL
Land of the Atlantic Coast of Guatemala and Origen Regenerativo
150,000+
CACAO TREES
800
LAND SIZE (Hectares)
40+
FARMERS
Meet Your Farmers
Las Marías is owned and managed by Ing. Rodrigo Sevilla, who oversees a team of more than 40 employees dedicated to cacao production, agroforestry management, and conservation efforts.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the farm is its harvest team. During cacao season, approximately 20 women from surrounding communities are employed as specialized cacao harvesters.
Their work involves:
- Harvesting ripe cacao pods
- Opening each fruit by hand
- Extracting the seeds
- Transporting harvested cacao to collection points
- Preparing cacao for fermentation
In addition to receiving the legally mandated salary and benefits established by Guatemala's Ministry of Labor, workers are provided transportation between the farm and their communities.
The farm's commitment to local employment creates important economic opportunities while supporting families throughout the region.
Genetics
The farm cultivates predominantly acriollado cacao genetics selected for their sweet flavor characteristics.
These genetics contribute to the farm's distinctive flavor profile and high-quality fermentation outcomes.
Environment
Las Marías combines productive agriculture with large-scale conservation.
The property includes:
- 140 hectares of regenerative agroforestry systems
- 660 hectares of protected forest reserve
- Endangered native hardwood species
- Fruit trees and tropical biodiversity corridors.
The cacao agroforestry system primarily integrates:
- Cacao
- Rosul
- Mahogany
The farm uses regenerative management practices that focus on soil health and biological fertility, including:
- Soil bioremediation
- Cultivation of mountain microorganisms
- Organic fertility management
- Natural weed control using cacao juice byproducts
From nursery establishment to mature production, each cacao tree receives careful management through training and maintenance pruning
Flavor Profile
Las Marías cacao is known for its sweet and approachable character, reflecting the farm's predominately acriollado genetics and lowland tropical environment.
The result is a balanced cacao with gentle sweetness and a smooth, accessible flavor profile.
NUTTY FRUITY WOODY