Kakaw Chocolate Museum
Discover the rich history and art of chocolate making, from ancient Mayan traditions to modern artisanal creations. Taste, learn, and craft your own s...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tour experience
Kakaw Chocolate Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tour experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the rich history and art of chocolate making, from ancient Mayan traditions to modern artisanal creations. Taste, learn, and craft your own sweet memories.
"Our guide Roxane explained everything in English and did an excellent job. She was thorough, engaging, and very friendly."
🎯 English Tour Minimum
English tours need 3+ people. Book ahead or risk disappointment! :ticket:
🍫 Hands-on Chocolate Fun
The chocolate workshop is a must-do! Make your own disc & learn about cacao's future. :chocolate_bar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mayan Chocolate History
Museum Exhibits
Discover the ancient roots of chocolate, its significance in Mayan culture, and its evolution into the treat we know today.
Chocolate Making Workshop
Workshop Area
Craft your own chocolate disc to take home and learn about high-quality chocolate production.
Tastings and Pox Samples
End of Tour/Workshop
Indulge in delicious tastings of various chocolates and a unique sample of pox, a traditional Mayan beverage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the Chocolate Workshop
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 English Tour Minimum
English tours need 3+ people. Book ahead or risk disappointment!
:ticket:🍫 Hands-on Chocolate Fun
The chocolate workshop is a must-do! Make your own disc & learn about cacao's future.
:chocolate_bar:😋 Delicious Endings
Don't miss the chocolate and pox tastings – they're a sweet reward!
:ice_cream:🗣️ Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Roxane are fantastic! Ask questions; they love to share.
:speech_balloon:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 English Tour Minimum
English tours need 3+ people. Book ahead or risk disappointment!
:ticket:🍫 Hands-on Chocolate Fun
The chocolate workshop is a must-do! Make your own disc & learn about cacao's future.
:chocolate_bar:😋 Delicious Endings
Don't miss the chocolate and pox tastings – they're a sweet reward!
:ice_cream:🗣️ Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Roxane are fantastic! Ask questions; they love to share.
:speech_balloon:⏳ Small but Mighty
The museum is compact, but packed with fascinating cacao history.
:magnifyingglasstilted_right:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kakaw Chocolate Museum for its engaging tours, particularly those led by knowledgeable guides like Roxane, and the delightful chocolate tastings. The hands-on chocolate workshop is a highly recommended experience for all ages. However, potential visitors should be aware that English tours require a minimum of three participants, which is not always clearly communicated.
"I had a wonderful experience at the Chocolate Museum! Our guide, Roxane, explained everything in English and did an excellent job. She was thorough, engaging, and very friendly. She went into depth, answered all of our questions with patience, and even added humor that made the tour fun and memorable. At the end, we were treated to delicious tastings of chocolate and pox, which were absolutely amazing. Highly recommended!"
Or Ben yaakov
"Came here twice on my trip. First time for a museum tour. The museum is small but has really cool history and info about cacao, the history that cacao has with Mayan culture and what it has become.
Second time I came for chocolate workshop, which I highly recommend. You get to make your own chocolate disc to take home and understand why high quality chocolate is hard to find and the danger of cacao beans (facing extinction risk).
Roxanna, my tour guide and also workshop manager, is amazing! She is the only one besides owner speaks English.
We also get to taste a lot of different kind of chocolate there."
Alice L
"I liked the museum guide and since we where alone it was better. The staff is very friendly and the chocolate was delicious. I recommend to take the tour that includes a degustation att the end"
Regina Garcia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kakaw Chocolate Museum is located in San Cristobal de las Casas. You can reach it by taxi or local transport. Many visitors find it easily accessible within the town.
Information on dedicated parking is limited, but street parking may be available nearby. Taxis are a convenient option.
The museum is typically open daily from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm, but it's always a good idea to check their social media for any updates.
While tours are highly recommended for the full experience and tastings, you can explore the museum exhibits independently.
Yes, the Kakaw Chocolate Museum is a perfect addition to a day trip in San Cristobal de las Casas, offering a unique cultural and culinary experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the museum tour is typically around 75 pesos, which includes tastings. Workshop fees may vary.
It's highly recommended to book tours in advance, especially for English-speaking guides, as they require a minimum of 3 participants.
Yes, there are museum tours that include tastings and separate chocolate-making workshops. The tours are about an hour long.
English-speaking tours require a minimum of 3 people. This is not always clearly stated, so booking ahead is advised.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the museum is generally family-friendly. Inquire directly for group rates.
🎫 🍫 Onsite Experience
The tour covers the history of cacao and chocolate, its connection to Mayan culture, and the modern chocolate-making process, often concluding with tastings.
Absolutely! The workshop is highly recommended for a hands-on experience where you create your own chocolate disc and learn about cacao's importance.
You can expect to taste a variety of delicious chocolates, often including unique local flavors and traditional Mayan preparations like pox.
Yes, the museum and workshops are generally enjoyable for children, offering a sweet and educational experience.
Yes, the museum often features a shop where you can purchase a variety of chocolate products and local specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in most areas of the museum, allowing you to capture your sweet memories.
The exhibits themselves, especially those detailing the chocolate-making process and historical artifacts, make for great photo opportunities.
Yes, you can usually take photos during the chocolate-making workshop to document your creations.
Look for visually appealing displays of chocolate art, historical exhibits, and of course, your own handmade chocolate creations.
While not explicitly stated, it's always courteous to avoid using flash photography in museum settings to protect exhibits and not disturb other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to check for English tours in advance, as they require a minimum of three people, and your guide Roxane is known for making the experience fun and interactive for all ages. The tastings at the end of the tour are always a hit with children, offering a sweet reward for their exploration.
🍫 Chocolate Enthusiasts
The chocolate making workshop is particularly valuable, providing hands-on experience and insights into artisanal chocolate production. Engaging with knowledgeable guides like Roxane will enrich your understanding and appreciation for this beloved treat.
✈️ Day-Trippers
Consider booking a morning tour or workshop to fit it into your itinerary. The museum's central location makes it convenient to combine with other local attractions. Don't forget to factor in time for the delightful chocolate and pox tastings at the end of your tour!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey of Cacao: From Bean to Bar
Visitors can witness or even participate in aspects of this transformation. The museum's exhibits detail the historical methods, including traditional grinding on a metate, a labor-intensive process that requires significant effort and time. Understanding these steps provides a deeper appreciation for the final product and the rich history behind it.
Furthermore, the museum touches upon the vulnerability of cacao beans, facing extinction risks due to climate change and disease. This adds a layer of urgency and importance to preserving these ancient crops and supporting sustainable chocolate production.
Experiencing Chocolate Workshops
During the workshop, you'll gain practical knowledge about chocolate tempering, molding, and decorating. It's a fun way to learn about the nuances of chocolate creation and understand why artisanal chocolate commands a higher price. The satisfaction of taking home your own handmade chocolate creation is immense.
These workshops are often led by knowledgeable staff, like Roxanna, who can guide you through the process with expertise and enthusiasm. It's an opportunity to not only create a delicious treat but also to connect with the cultural heritage of chocolate in a tangible way.
The Significance of Pox
Often served during ceremonies and celebrations, pox is a testament to the enduring traditions of indigenous communities. Experiencing a taste of pox alongside chocolate offers a more complete cultural immersion, connecting you to the ancient practices that have shaped the region's identity.
While the exact ingredients and preparation methods can vary, pox is typically a potent and flavorful drink that complements the sweetness of chocolate, providing a unique sensory experience.
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