Guatemala has joined the World Network of Cacao Tourism Destinations, an initiative presented at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) 2024 in Madrid. The network is led by the Tourism and Society Think Tank and Amora Carbajal Schumacher.
The initiative aims to create an international alliance among destinations with a shared interest in cacao and its products. Through this network, travelers can explore the history, culture, and production process of cacao from its origins.
Participating countries include Guatemala, Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, the Philippines, Ghana, among others. Tourists visiting these countries will have opportunities to learn about cacao cultivation and processing through plantation tours. They can also visit factories and chocolate shops to observe how cacao is transformed into various products.
The network provides access to cacao museums around the world in places such as Belgium, Canada, Italy, Switzerland, offering educational perspectives on the evolution of cacao. Interactive experiences are also planned through cacao routes that include workshops and classes where visitors can make their own chocolate.
In his remarks at FITUR 2024, Harris Whitbeck, general director of INGUAT (Instituto Guatemalteco de Turismo), highlighted the historical importance of cacao for Guatemala: "He explained how this product played a central role in the culture and society of the Mayas and ancient peoples of Mesoamerica."
Whitbeck added that joining this project allows Guatemala to diversify its tourism offerings: "He also stated that with the presentation of this project there is an opportunity for Guatemala to diversify and expand its tourism offer, which is one of the priorities of President Bernardo Arévalo's government."
He thanked Amora Carbajal Schumacher and the Tourism and Society Think Tank for inviting Guatemala to participate: "He also expressed his gratitude to Amora Carbajal Schumacher and the Tourism and Society Think Tank for inviting Guatemala to join the World Network of Cacao Tourism Destinations since this initiative will surely provide a memorable experience for travelers who visit our country."
More information about Guatemala’s participation can be found on INGUAT’s official website at https://inguat.gob.gt/prensa/noticias-recientes.html
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