Cacao has a rich history dating back to the pre-Columbian civilizations of the Americas. The Mayans and Aztecs considered it a divine food, using it not only in religious rituals, but also as a currency and status symbol. The term “chocolate” comes from the Nahuatl word “xocolatl”, which referred to a bitter drink made from cocoa.
With the arrival of the European colonizers, cocoa was taken to Europe, where it was transformed into a sweet by the addition of sugar and milk. This change was fundamental to turn chocolate into the product we know and enjoy today in various forms: bars, chocolates, drinks, among others. However, behind this apparently simple process there is a complex value chain that involves small producers, artisans and large industries.
The World Cocoa and Derivatives Tourism Destinations Network has the mission of highlighting tourist destinations that base a large part of their attractiveness on cocoa production. This network brings together different cocoa-growing regions that have developed sustainable tourism products based on cocoa and its derivatives, such as chocolate. Its main objective is to boost local development through the promotion of responsible tourism, supporting producers and raising awareness of the importance of cocoa in the economic development of rural communities.
Chocolate tourism has grown significantly in recent years, especially in cocoa-producing regions that have been able to take advantage of this product not only as an export commodity, but also as a tourist attraction. Visitors are increasingly looking for authentic and educational experiences, which has led to the development of tourism routes focused on cocoa and chocolate.
This type of tourism has a positive impact on local economies, as it generates additional income for cocoa producers and fosters job creation in the tourism sector. In addition, chocolate tourism experiences are often associated with sustainable practices, contributing to the preservation of the environment and the improvement of living conditions in rural communities.
World Chocolate Day is an excellent opportunity to reflect on the impact this product has on our lives, not only from a gastronomic perspective, but also from its influence on the economy and culture of many producing regions.
The World Cocoa and Derivatives Tourism Destinations Network will continue to play a key role in promoting cocoa and chocolate tourism, working to ensure that the benefits of this industry reach those who need it most: small producers and local communities. As interest in experiential tourism and fair trade products grows, the future of chocolate tourism is as sweet as the product it celebrates.
