Tucked away in the lush, verdant hills of Jardin, Finca Mariposa offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Colombian coffee culture. Visitors are whisked away in a classic 1954 Willys Jeep, climbing to an elevation of 1800 meters to explore the scenic coffee-growing region. From picking ripe beans to learning the intricate cultivation process, this immersive tour promises an educational and visually captivating experience. But the true delight lies in savoring the homemade refreshments, including the renowned Mariposa coffee, all while drinking in the breathtaking vistas of the Andes. There’s more to uncover at this enchanting coffee haven.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Coffee Tours And Tastings In Jardin.
Key Points
- Unique immersive experience in Colombian coffee production traditions, including hands-on activities like picking coffee beans and observing processing methods.
- Scenic mountain tour in a classic 1954 Willys Jeep to the Finca Mariposa coffee plantation at an elevation of 1800 meters.
- Insights into the history, growth, and production stages of coffee at the Finca Mariposa, with over 6000 coffee trees.
- Opportunity to enjoy homemade refreshments and snacks, including freshly brewed Mariposa coffee, during the educational tour.
- Intimate group size of up to 6 travelers for a personalized and accessible experience, with highly rated guides.
Tour Highlights
The tour at Finca Mariposa offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich tradition of Colombian coffee production.
Travelers are picked up in a classic 1954 Willys Jeep and whisked away to the coffee-growing region at an elevation of 1800 meters.
Finca Mariposa boasts over 6000 coffee trees and stunning mountain vistas.
The tour includes hands-on activities like picking coffee beans, learning about cultivation, and observing the production process.
Guests gain insights into the history of Colombian coffee and witness the washing, fermenting, and sun-drying stages.
With delicious coffee, homemade snacks, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an authentic, intimate coffee experience.
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Coffee Picking Experience
Participants on the Finca Mariposa tour are equipped with traditional coffee baskets to actively pick the ripe coffee beans from the trees. Guided by the expert coffee farmer, they learn the art of selecting the perfect red cherries, carefully plucking them from the branches.
The group traverses the lush coffee and banana plantations, seeing the rhythmic process of harvesting the precious beans. As they fill their baskets, they gain a newfound appreciation for the meticulous work required to bring the beloved coffee drink to life.
This hands-on experience allows travelers to directly engage with the coffee production cycle, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to the flavorful beverage.
Coffee Cultivation and Production
Guided by the expert coffee farmer, guests gain insights into the growth and production stages of the coffee plant.
They learn about the careful cultivation of the coffee trees, which can grow up to 30 feet tall. Participants observe the coffee cherries as they ripen from green to deep red, signaling the optimal time for harvesting.
The tour then delves into the intricate post-harvest processing, including washing, fermenting, and sun-drying the beans on elevated beds.
Visitors have the chance to climb onto the drying platforms to witness firsthand the meticulous drying process that helps unlock the flavor and aroma of the Mariposa coffee.
Scenic Mountain Views
As the Jeep ascends the winding mountain roads, guests are treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes peaks and lush, rolling hills.
The elevation of 1800 meters provides a panoramic view of the picturesque coffee region, where vibrant green coffee and banana trees dot the landscape.
Finca Mariposa’s location amidst these towering mountains creates a serene and picturesque setting, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Colombian countryside.
With over 6000 coffee trees spread across the estate, the farm offers a stunning backdrop for learning about the coffee cultivation process and exploring the rich history of this renowned beverage.
Homemade Refreshments and Snacks
Throughout the tour, guests are treated to a variety of homemade refreshments and snacks. The tour includes coffee or tea, a cup of freshly brewed Mariposa coffee, and homemade snacks.
These locally-sourced delights provide a delicious complement to the educational experience. Participants can sip on the rich, aromatic coffee as they learn about the intricate process of coffee production, from bean to cup.
The homemade snacks offer a tasty respite during the immersive tour, allowing guests to refuel and reenergize. This thoughtful inclusion of refreshments enhances the overall experience, ensuring visitors leave with not only newfound knowledge but also a satisfied palate.
Transportation and Meeting Point
The tour begins with pickup at 8:30 AM in a traditional 1954 Willys Jeep.
Travelers won’t need to worry about transportation, as the tour includes private transportation to the Finca Mariposa. However, it’s important to note that no transportation is provided from Medellin to Jardin, where the tour operates.
The meeting point is at Café Cuchillas, located at Calle 10 #3-80 in Jardin.
The tour duration is approximately 3 hours, giving participants ample time to explore the coffee farm and learn about the coffee production process.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, the experience promises an intimate and personalized encounter with the rich coffee culture of the region.
Tour Accessibility and Group Size
The tour’s accessibility and group size are well-defined.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
The group size is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers per tour. Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
This intimate group size allows for a personalized experience, where guests can engage directly with the knowledgeable guides and fully enjoy the coffee-making process.
The accessibility and group size cater to a range of travelers, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience at Finca Mariposa.
Travelers’ Testimonials
According to the provided information, travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Finca Mariposa coffee tour and jeep tour experience.
With a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 14 reviews, the tour is highly recommended by all who’ve experienced it. Travelers highlight the friendly and informative guides, particularly Daniel, a fourth-generation coffee farmer, who shares his deep knowledge of coffee production.
The intimate group size and engaging learning opportunities about coffee cultivation and processing are also praised. Many describe the tour as a must-do activity in Jardin, praising the beautiful mountain scenery and delicious coffee tasting.
Guests appreciate the personal touch and the opportunity to directly participate in the coffee picking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour does not have a minimum age requirement, but infants must sit on laps. Travelers of all ages can participate, though the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the nature of the activities.
Can We Bring Our Own Coffee Beans to Be Roasted?
The tour operator does not offer the option to roast personal coffee beans. However, guests can enjoy a cup of the farm’s freshly brewed coffee and purchase bags of their signature beans to take home.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Accommodations Available?
The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions, but they do provide homemade snacks. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any special needs or accommodations required prior to booking to ensure a smooth experience.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?
The tour operators at Finca Mariposa can accommodate requests to extend the tour duration or customize the itinerary, subject to availability. Travelers should inquire about these options when booking to ensure their needs are met.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price includes coffee, tea, homemade snacks, and private transportation. There are no additional costs or fees, though travelers are responsible for their own transportation to the meeting point in Jardin. The tour duration is fixed at 3 hours.
Recap
The Coffee Tour and Jeep Tour at Finca Mariposa offers a captivating immersion into the heart of Colombian coffee production. Visitors can savor the rich flavors of Mariposa’s coffee, explore the scenic mountain landscapes, and gain hands-on insight into the cultivation process. This unique experience combines education, adventure, and the opportunity to connect with the region’s vibrant coffee culture.