The Sacred Journey of Mayan Cacao: From Coast to Ceremony
In the heart of the Mayan world, cacao has long held a sacred place, both as a cherished commodity and a spiritual symbol. Unlike coffee, which thrives in the higher altitudes surrounding the stunning Lake Atitlán, cacao is grown along the coastal regions. Despite misconceptions, you won’t find cacao growing near the lake—an essential distinction that highlights the unique ecological and cultural landscape where cacao is truly cultivated.
For centuries, Mayan cacao has been farmed and prepared using time-honored traditions, passed down through generations. Today, much of the cacao available is produced by small, local Mayan families who follow ancient recipes. These producers roast the cacao beans, grind them into a rich, aromatic paste, and mix it with water, spices, and, sometimes, chili peppers—adding depth and complexity to the flavor. This process is intimate and personal, reflecting the deep connection the Mayans have with their land and its produce.
However, a disconnect has emerged between the traditional cacao producers and many of the “gringo” sellers. All too often, vendors have little understanding of the intricacies behind the preparation and ingredients of the cacao they sell. As a result, consumers may miss out on the authentic experience of Mayan cacao, which carries centuries of history in every bean.
The Rise of Cacao Ceremonies: Reconnecting to Tradition
Our journey into offering cacao started as a response to the rising interest in cacao ceremonies. These ceremonies, deeply rooted in Mayan spirituality, have surged in popularity, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, as people sought ways to reconnect with themselves and nature. Guests who came to experience the spiritual significance of cacao began requesting to purchase it, and soon demand grew beyond our expectations.
But here’s the reality: our cacao producers do not work in large factories with assembly lines. Instead, cacao production remains a craft steeped in tradition, with artisans preparing their products in small, home-based workshops. As part of our tours, visitors witness the meticulous handcrafting of cacao, where the beans are roasted, ground, and molded into shape—all done by hand. These producers invest love and care into every batch they create, ensuring that the cacao is not only flavorful but also respectful of its cultural origins.
The rise of cacao ceremonies has prompted us to adopt a more thoughtful approach. While we continue to share the stories of our producers and offer labels for sellers, we’ve grown protective of our materials. Sadly, we’ve seen our photos and stories used on other websites selling cacao or promoting ceremonies without proper acknowledgment. For us, it’s not just about selling a product; it’s about preserving the cultural integrity of Mayan cacao.
Cultural Responsibility: Sacred Journey of Mayan Cacao Ceremonies with Intention
One of the most important aspects of any cacao ceremony is intention. In Mayan culture, cacao is revered for its ability to open the heart and foster deeper spiritual connections. It is not consumed casually, nor is it used merely for profit. If you’re planning to sell our cacao or host ceremonies, it’s essential to understand this. The priests who perform these sacred ceremonies won’t proceed without a clear, respectful intention. This is not a practice to be commercialized or commodified without understanding its spiritual depth.
Fake cacao ceremonies have become increasingly common, and this threatens the authenticity of the experience. For our producers, the purpose behind the product is paramount, and they prefer to focus on what they know best—providing high-quality beans and cacao nibs to artisans and those who genuinely appreciate the significance of this product.
Sacred Journey of Mayan Cacao The Global Reach of Mayan Cacao
Interestingly, the majority of our cacao sales are raw beans and nibs, which are popular among chocolate artisans around the world. Our cacao is also sold as powder, often accompanying our coffee offerings, making it a versatile addition to many beverages and treats.
While the spiritual and ceremonial aspect is growing, it only represents a small portion of our business. Most of the cacao blocks we produce are shipped to Europe, particularly to countries like Norway, Sweden, and Croatia, where there’s a surprisingly large demand for authentic, high-quality cacao. These regions have embraced the artisanal value of Mayan cacao, integrating it into their chocolate-making and culinary traditions.
Sacred Journey of Mayan Cacao
Protecting the Legacy of Mayan Cacao
As our business has grown, we’ve remained committed to protecting the legacy of Mayan cacao. We are selective about who we partner with because we want to ensure that the story of cacao—the real story—remains intact. Cacao is not just a product to be sold; it is a part of Mayan history, culture, and spirituality. Whether it’s used in artisanal chocolate or in a heartfelt ceremony, every cacao bean carries with it the weight of centuries of tradition.
When you work with us, you’re not just purchasing cacao; you’re supporting local Mayan families, preserving a cultural legacy, and helping to ensure that this sacred crop continues to thrive for generations to come.
