Aquiares Coffee Estate
Discover Costa Rica's largest coffee estate, blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability for world-class coffee and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Aquiares Coffee Estate
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Costa Rica's largest coffee estate, blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability for world-class coffee and breathtaking views.
"An unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and world-class coffee made with love."
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot, especially for popular activities like horseback riding, to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Ask for Andrew!
Many visitors rave about Andrew as an exceptional guide, making the tour informative and fun. :star:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Coffee Production Process
Farm and Mill
Witness firsthand how quality coffee is grown, harvested, and processed, from bean to cup. Learn about sustainable practices and unique varieties.
Horseback Riding Adventure
Estate Grounds
Explore the lush landscapes and stunning views on horseback, with stops at a waterfall for a refreshing swim.
Coffee Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Savor the rich, smooth flavors of high-altitude grown beans, sampling unique varieties and appreciating the passion for quality.
The 350-Year-Old Tree
Estate Grounds
Admire a majestic, ancient tree that stands as a testament to the estate's long history and connection to nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Coffee Tour in Advance
Embrace the Full Coffee Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot, especially for popular activities like horseback riding, to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Ask for Andrew!
Many visitors rave about Andrew as an exceptional guide, making the tour informative and fun. :star:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the estate and potentially on uneven terrain, so good footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Swimwear
If you opt for the horseback riding tour, you'll likely stop at a waterfall for a swim. :bikini:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot, especially for popular activities like horseback riding, to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Ask for Andrew!
Many visitors rave about Andrew as an exceptional guide, making the tour informative and fun. :star:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the estate and potentially on uneven terrain, so good footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Swimwear
If you opt for the horseback riding tour, you'll likely stop at a waterfall for a swim. :bikini:
Savor the Coffee
Even if you're not a regular coffee drinker, the quality and unique flavors are worth experiencing. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Aquiares Coffee Estate for its beautiful scenery, educational tours, and exceptional coffee. The horseback riding tour, with its waterfall stop, is a particular highlight for families. Guides like Andrew receive widespread acclaim for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience memorable and enjoyable. The estate's commitment to quality and sustainability is also frequently noted and appreciated.
"A beautiful experience to know in site what the planting and harvesting with quality is. You can pick coffee beans of the top varieties of coffee for exporting to countries overseas such Saudi Arabia, Japan and the most demanding quality importers. Don't take my word. Come and live the experience where you can also admire the 350 year.-old tree. Billy San."
Billysan San
"Awesome experience! Traveling with 2 families, (4 adults, 4 kids ages 6-9) we did horseback riding tour. Guides were wonderful, very patient , knowledgeable, safe, great with kids. Stopped at incredible waterfall and swam. At end of tour had coffee, chocolate and fruit. Definitely recommended."
Jonathan Papic
"I had the pleasure of visiting Aquiares Coffee Farm in Costa Rica, and it was an unforgettable experience! Andrew made us feel welcome when we arrived with his warmth and knowledge. The farm is nestled in the lush mountains, providing stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. The guided tour was educational and engaging, as we learned about the entire coffee production process, from planting to harvesting and roasting.
The highlight, of course, was the coffee tasting. The beans at Aquiares are grown at high altitudes, and you can taste the difference in the rich, smooth flavors. I had the opportunity to sample several varieties, and each one was a unique and delightful experience. Attention to detail and passion for quality coffee are evident in every process step. My favorite was the honey blend, which was available for purchase after the tour. It tastes delicious, and I am not a coffee drinker.
I also appreciated how they prioritize sustainable farming practices, which made the experience even more meaningful. If you're a coffee lover or want to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty, I highly recommend visiting Aquiares Coffee Farm. It's a true gem, offering a perfect blend of culture and nature and world-class coffee made con amor y compasión. 5 stars! Please be sure to request Andrew! We love him, and he is the absolute best! Pura Vida!"
Mya Gallon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aquiares Coffee Estate is located near Turrialba. While specific public transport details can be scarce, many visitors opt for taxis or pre-arranged transportation. If you're looking for a guided experience without a car, consider tours that include transportation from Turrialba.
Yes, it's possible to visit Aquiares without a car, especially if you book a tour that includes pick-up and drop-off from Turrialba. This is a common recommendation for travelers who prefer not to drive.
For a day trip, booking a guided tour that handles transportation from your accommodation in or near Turrialba is often the most convenient option. This allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
While dedicated shuttle services might not be widely advertised, many local tour operators in Turrialba offer packages that include transportation to and from Aquiares Estate. Inquire with local tourism providers.
Yes, arranging a private transfer or taxi from Turrialba is a reliable option for reaching Aquiares Coffee Estate, offering flexibility and comfort. This can be booked through your hotel or local taxi services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tours in advance, especially for specific experiences like horseback riding, to ensure availability and a seamless visit.
Aquiares offers various tours, including farm and mill tours, coffee tastings, and horseback riding. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information.
Yes, you can experience the full coffee journey, from planting to roasting, with guided tours. There are also specialized coffee tasting sessions to explore different flavor profiles.
The horseback riding tour often includes a scenic ride through the estate, a stop at a waterfall for swimming, and a coffee, chocolate, and fruit tasting at the end.
Absolutely! You can purchase various coffee varieties, including their popular honey blend, directly at the estate after your tour.
🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience
Many visitors highly recommend the guided farm and mill tour for an educational experience, and the horseback riding tour for adventure and stunning scenery. The coffee tasting is a must for any coffee enthusiast. +1
Guides like Andrew are frequently praised for being incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, making the tours informative and enjoyable for all ages.
Aquiares Estate grows exceptional coffee varieties, including unique ones like Esperanza. You can taste beans processed in different ways, such as washed, honey, and natural.
Yes, families with children often have a wonderful time. The horseback riding tour is particularly popular with kids, and the guides are known for being great with younger visitors.
The estate is nestled in lush mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and volcanic landscapes, making it a picturesque destination.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush green coffee fields, the historic buildings, the ancient 350-year-old tree, and the scenic mountain vistas offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged throughout the estate during tours, allowing you to capture the beauty of the coffee farm and its surroundings.
Morning hours often provide beautiful soft light for photography, while late afternoon can offer golden hour hues. The vibrant greenery is stunning throughout the day.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the estate management beforehand to ensure compliance with any regulations regarding drone operation.
The horseback riding tour offers unique perspectives of the landscape, including potential shots at the waterfall stop and along the trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the horseback riding, the farm tour itself can be engaging for older children who are curious about where their food comes from. Learning about the coffee process from planting to roasting can be educational. The opportunity to taste coffee, chocolate, and fruit at the end of the horseback tour provides a sweet reward for everyone.
☕ Coffee Enthusiasts
+1 The opportunity to taste beans processed four different ways offers a profound insight into how processing impacts flavor. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can explain the intricacies of high-altitude cultivation and the estate's commitment to quality. The tasting sessions are designed to be educational and delightful, allowing you to discern the subtle notes and complexities of world-class Costa Rican coffee.
🌿 Eco-Conscious Travelers
You can learn about their efforts in water conservation, biodiversity promotion, and community support. Choosing to visit Aquiares means supporting a farm that prioritizes the environment and the well-being of its 1,800 residents. The estate's dedication to nurturing both its coffee plants and its ecosystem provides a meaningful travel experience for those who value ethical tourism.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Aquiares Estate
+1The farm is managed by Diego Robelo, who embodies the estate's commitment to tradition, effort, and constant innovation. His leadership ensures that Aquiares continues to produce high-quality coffee while maintaining its ecological and social responsibilities. The estate also proudly features a 350-year-old tree, a living monument that underscores the deep historical roots of the land.
Visitors can learn about these historical and sustainable aspects during guided tours, gaining a deeper appreciation for the dedication and passion that goes into every cup of Aquiares coffee. The estate's commitment to quality and sustainability makes it a model for the coffee industry.
+1Exploring the Coffee Varieties and Processing
The farm's high altitude and fertile volcanic soil contribute to the beans' rich and smooth characteristics. The estate experiments with various processing methods to highlight the nuances of each bean. You can experience coffees processed using washed, red honey, natural, and Juanilama co-ferment methods.
Each method imparts different flavor notes, allowing for a diverse tasting experience. For instance, the 'sundried natural' process can yield unique flavors, while 'red honey' processing often results in a sweeter cup with fruity notes. +1During a tasting, you might encounter notes of apple, peach, toffee, floral hints, red fruits, orange, and brown sugar, depending on the variety and processing.
+1 This meticulous attention to detail in cultivation and processing is what makes Aquiares coffee stand out in the global market, appealing to discerning coffee importers worldwide. The Aquiares Community and Eco-Friendly Practices
This community-centric approach ensures that the benefits of the coffee production are shared locally, supporting families and livelihoods. The estate's commitment to its people is as strong as its commitment to the environment. Sustainability is a core principle at Aquiares. The estate is recognized for its eco-friendly practices, aiming to minimize its environmental footprint. This includes responsible water management, conservation efforts, and promoting biodiversity within its vast landholdings.
Their dedication to being climate-friendly is a key aspect of their operation, setting a benchmark for responsible agriculture in the region. Visitors can witness these practices firsthand, understanding how the estate integrates environmental stewardship with high-quality coffee production. This holistic approach contributes to the unique character and exceptional quality of Aquiares coffee, making it a truly special destination for those interested in ethical and sustainable tourism.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit