Cacao Farm

9 May 2013

The tour I was most excited about taking in Belize was the Cacao Trail. I love chocolate and I've been very interested in the bean to bar process, so the idea of visiting a cacao farm was even more interesting. Some of you have checked out already, but bear with me as this farmer is probably the most interesting man you'll ever meet!
Meet Eladio Pop. He's a Mayan Cacao Farmer who is passionate about his 30 acre subsistence farm in southern Belize. He has farmed this particular spot for the past 40 years (he's 54!). For about 2 hours we trekked over the hills and through the woods looking at eating everything he grows. Every time we crested a hill or turned a corner there was something new to try!

Maroon bananas

Hub holding some of the many things we were snacking on: Cacao & Jippi Joppa

Eladio demonstrating how to harvest and eat Jippi Joppa

Following Eladio up the hill

 Eladio spoke to us quite a bit about his farming philosophy. He shuns traditional slash and burn farming techniques in favor of a more natural farm. He has learned to grow in harmony with the nature that surrounds him. Indeed, I had expected a more American style farm with rows of plants and such so I was surprised to see how the cacao tress are actually planted and sheltered (and thrive) beneath the canopy of the forest. It is easy to see how Eladio works in coordination with nature to get the most from his little farm. He understands the needs of each plant and animal that inhabits his farm and works hard to meet each need....even the rodents. At one point he cuts down a coconut with his machete and opens it up for us. After we inhale the delicious interior, he leaves behind the other half for the animals. There is enough for everyone he tells us, and he is right! He has raised 15 children off this farm.

Eladio separated out the Cacao seeds from the pulp. The pulp is used to make wine and the seeds chocolate.

Traditional Belizean Rice and Beans lunch prepared by Eladio's wife & daughters.