Contrary to what many people believe, not all fruits and vegetables found at Antigua’s Mercado are wholesome and organic. In fact, many crops are sprayed with a huge amount of pesticides – some claim that in Guatemala up to 40% more pesticides are used than actually necessary.
That is the reason why we wash all our fruits and vegetables at home very thoroughly before eating them. But that still leaves one exposed to all the chemical fertilizers used to grow the crops. So, what to do?
Caoba Farms in Antigua Guatemala
Organic Produce Store
Fortunately, there’s a growing awareness in Antigua about the importance of using sustainable, organic farming techniques.
This week, I visited Caoba Farms, an organic farm that provides restaurants and locals with many vegetables (such as arugula) that aren’t available anywhere else, as well as standard products.
Caoba Farms’ Store and Offices
I came away very impressed with their operation. Caoba Farms produces most of the items they sell, including honey, free-range meat, and of course, fruits and vegetables. I was surprised to find they even had chemical-free dog food available for sale. Their prices are reasonable, and they even deliver as far as Lake Atitlan.
I also liked that all their produce is thoroughly washed with filtered water before packaging (see photo gallery). To place an order, call 7832-9201 or 5203-8473.
Wide Selection of Produce and Items
How to Volunteer at Caoba Farms
Caoba Farms also accepts volunteers, which work alongside paid staff. If you want to learn more about organic farming – and get paid in veggies – Caoba Farms is worth checking out. You get a bag of vegetables for three hours of work – it starts at 9 am sharp. Some of the tasks include pulling weeds, cleaning animal yards, planting seedlings, turning compost, and harvesting seeds. you can see their volunteer schedule here.
If you’re interested in volunteering, email them at farmscaoba@gmail.com or call them at 5685-7286.
Guided Tours
They also offer guided tours for 60Q, which last an hour to an hour and a half. For 135Q the tour concludes with a meal. See more info here.
There’s also an introductory course to permaculture, which lasts 3 days, and costs 1,150Q – lunch included. Contact them for course dates.
Tours start when the shuttle picks up passengers – Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3 p.m and Saturdays at 10 a.m. Email info@caobafarms.com for details.
Caoba Nights (Thursdays)
This is geared more towards adults, but kids are welcome. There’s live music, a large selection of craft beers, plus board games and other games (cornhole or toss, depending on where you come from).
There’s a free shuttle, which departs from Tanque de la Union (2a Avenida Sur and 6a Avenida Oriente) every half hour, starting at 6 pm.
Farmers Market (Saturdays)
Caoba Farms hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday with live music, art exhibits, organic food and drinks, games, and workshops.
There are free shuttles to the farm starting at 9 am from Tanque de la Union (2a Avenida Sur).
Activities For Kids (Sundays)
If you’re looking for a place to have lunch with your kids, Caoba has you covered. They offer free activities from 11:30 am to 2 pm, while you sit down for a relaxed meal or have a drink at the cafe. There’s often live music as well.
Yoga Classes (Thursdays and Sundays)
If you’re in the mood, Caoba has yoga classes every Thursday from 5 pm to 6 pm and Sundays from 10 am to 11:15 am. A donation of 30Q is suggested.
Flea Market (First Sunday of Every Month)
Whether you want to buy or sell your second-hand items, you can visit Caoba on the first Sunday of every month. It’s a fun atmosphere, as there is live music, and food and crafts vendors as well.
Photos of the Farm
Click on any pic to open gallery:
Location Map (Walking Directions)
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More activities here: https://okantigua.com/things-to-do-in-antigua-guatemala/
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Have you shopped at Caoba Farms?
What was your experience like?