Cocoa Route

Venue:

Zona Arqueológica de Izapa y Tuxtla Chico

Location:

Tuxtla Chico

Adress:

Known adress.

Description:

The adventure takes place in Tuxtla Chico, a municipality that receives its name in recognition of the presence of the chico zapote fruit, it is also known for being a leader in the Mexican southeast in the production of cocoa and artisan chocolate.

Here in Tuxtla Chico it is the first stop on the tour and we can see the Archaeological site of Izapa, whose existence dates back to 1500 BC. you can see large sculptures that integrate commemorative and mythological ideas about human beings and nature; In many of these stelae, are portrayed characters that appear in the legend of the Popol Vuh, a book that narrates the ancient traditions originating from the Mayan culture.

Afterwards, we will head downtown of Tuxtla Chico to visit the María Candelaria church, built in 1808 as well as observe its 18th century altarpiece, then you will take a tour of its picturesque market, main square and the colorful stairs that allow you to breathe the fresh air of the tropical forest and easily appreciate the birds and their songs.

Going to Tuxtla Chico and not trying their chocolate, it is definitely like not having been there, so the tour ends at the Laparra family's artisan chocolate workshop, 3 generations of women making artisan chocolate with the original recipe. Attended by the owner, Doña Josefina Laparra or "Chepis" as she likes to be called, visitors hear from her live voice the importance of cocoa for the region, the artisanal process of making chocolate and its peculiar anecdotes where you can perceive love and passion for this occupation. In this artisan gastronomic workshop, cocoa is traditionally processed and a delicious snack from the region is enjoyed, accompanied by a sparkling hot chocolate.