Las Marias spans 800 hectares, with 238 hectares devoted to organic cocoa farming. The estate implements agroecological and conservation methods while preserving forest reserves through government support. Located at kilometer 305.5 on the Rio Dulce route, it is reachable within an hour by public transit from Kampura. The farm’s limited cocoa diversity is managed via a simple agroforestry system integrating cacao, rosul, and mahogany. Their practices include careful cacao cultivation from nursery to harvest, expert pruning, and soil restoration using mountain microorganisms and natural herbicides made from cacao juice. A trained team of 20 local women handles harvesting, receiving fair wages and transportation. Las Marias uniquely stands as the only large-scale finca partner of Cacao Source, highlighting its dedication to sustainability and community welfare.
Genetics primarily focus on acriollado varieties, known for their sweet flavor profiles. The cocoa undergoes a balanced fermentation process, combining alcoholic and acetic phases lasting between 9 and 11 days. Cultivated across 140 hectares featuring regenerative agroforestry systems, the surrounding 660-hectare forest reserve protects endangered precious wood species and diverse fruit trees. Situated at an altitude of 50 meters, the farm hosts approximately 1,500 cacao trees. The operation is owned by Ing. Rodrigo Sevilla and supported by a workforce of over 40 employees.