Cocoa & Varieties
What types of cocoa are there?
There are essentially three types of cacao worldwide: Forastero, Criollo, and Trinitario. According to the prevailing opinion among cacao experts, Forastero and Criollo represent the original varieties of cacao. Trinitario resulted from the natural crossbreeding of these two original varieties (Criollo and Forastero).
What are the differences between Adiwa, Aloha, and Kukulkan?
These three varieties are all based on an Acriollado cacao bean from the Sur del Lago region of Venezuela. They all differ in their processing, final form, perceived aroma profile, and effect. You can explore the latter for yourself, as it varies from person to person. Starting with Aloha, then Adiwa, and finally Kukulkan, the processing times for grinding vary between 12, 18, and 24 hours. Longer grinding results in a finer product, making Aloha the coarsest and Kukulkan the finest. Adiwa falls somewhere in between. As you can see in the photos, each cacao comes in different forms. Aloha comes in small pieces, while Adiwa comes in slightly larger and finer pieces, and Kukulkan comes in the form of drops or small round discs.
Where does your cocoa come from?
All our cocoa comes from Venezuela. Some of it comes from our partnership with cocoa farmer Agustin in the Sur del Lago region (Aloha, Adiwa, and Kukulkan). Other cocoa comes from our direct partner project in Macuro, Paria region, Sucre state, as well as from our own hacienda in Caripito, Monagas state. We also have the potential to source cocoa from Venezuela and, in the future, from other direct and fair-trade partnerships with other partners in other Latin American countries.
With whom does Mayamunay work in Venezuela?
Our cocoa comes from the Sur de Lago region, through direct cooperation with cocoa farmer Agustin and his network of other cocoa farmers. Our cocoa also originates from our direct partner project, Macuro. I, David, have personally experienced this firsthand, having visited Agustin's hacienda and undergone multiple visits and extended, intensive work-intensive stays in Macuro. I have also created this information for those interested. It was and remains important to me to get to know the farmers, their living conditions, and of course, the land, the jungle, and the cocoa itself, and to be involved in all the wonderful processes.
Furthermore, we work primarily with two wonderful souls from Venezuela, without whom Maya Munay wouldn't be where we are today: Luis and Marlene. Marlene was my first contact in the Venezuelan cocoa sector. After I told her about my vision, she brought Luis on board. Marlene is a human rights lawyer in Venezuela and also a chocolatier. Originally from one of Venezuela's countless cocoa-growing regions, she grew up on cocoa haciendas with her grandparents. I always call Luis the Tesla of cocoa. In the nearly 10 years I've been surrounded by cocoa, I've never met anyone who possesses and shares such expertise and experience. From cultivation to processing, from cocoa mass to chocolate, and in addition to all the economic aspects, we can rely on his 30 years of project experience in the cocoa sector, not only in Venezuela, but also in other Latin American countries and around the world. By profession—and by his original training—Luis is an agricultural engineer. With this team of concentrated chocolate, seemingly endless experience and expertise, both in cocoa and in the legal field, we feel blessed and richly gifted, and for all the steps ahead, especially coming to a country like Venezuela, we feel optimally thrown together by the divine.
Is your cocoa organically or fairly traded?
Our cacao grows in mixed forests in the jungle – you could say, in a natural agroforestry system that also adheres to permaculture principles. It therefore thrives organically and in harmony with its environment.
If by "organic" we mean that no artificial substances whatsoever are used, then we can affirm this with complete conviction. On our hacienda, we use exclusively natural materials: fallen leaves, cocoa pod shells, and other organic matter found in the forest serve as our compost and fertilizer.
Furthermore, we care for the soil by pruning the trees, mulching plant debris, and using worm compost, which produces a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer. Our approach is simple: we don't feed the plants, but the soil. Because healthy soil gives us healthy plants – and from that, a particularly robust cacao ultimately grows.
Is your cocoa vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, that's him.
Effects & Applications
How long does cocoa last?
According to current food safety regulations, cocoa has a shelf life of two years from the time the beans are processed into cocoa mass. However, with optimal storage – i.e., in a sealed glass jar , protected from light and at room temperature (ideally below 26°C) – our cocoa, in our experience, remains edible for considerably longer . We are not aware of a single instance where it was no longer good after this time – on the contrary: it often still tastes wonderfully aromatic even after a considerable period.
How do you prepare your cocoa?
Your hot chocolate will turn out best if you prepare it with love, time, and mindfulness . Use water and/or (plant-based) milk – entirely according to your taste – and stir it with a spoon or whisk until creamy and completely dissolved. Feel free to enhance it with your favorite spices such as cinnamon, chili, vanilla, or cardamom.
To preserve the vital nutrients , you should n't heat the cocoa above 45°C . However, if you prefer to enjoy it hot, you can of course experience for yourself how this affects the taste and its effects.
Traditionally, the Mayans cook cacao for ritual purposes – the focus is less on its nutritional value and more on its energy and spirit . The longer heating process strengthens the element of fire , making the cacao more potent but also somewhat more bitter .
Ultimately, there is no "right" or "wrong" – experiment , feel your way and find out which preparation feels most right to you .
Can I also prepare your cocoa cold?
Good question? Why not? Just try it out...
What effect does cocoa have on body, mind, and heart?
Is there a recommended daily amount of cocoa?
According to the prevailing scientific opinion, an adult should supposedly consume no more than an average of 30g per day. Based on scientific findings, it is claimed that higher consumption would affect the liver. Ultimately, such statements should always be treated with caution and subjected to personal experimentation. Generally speaking, it's probably best to avoid excessive consumption of anything over extended periods. Hmmm...is that really true?
Does cocoa contain caffeine?
Yes
How does the effect of cocoa differ from that of coffee?
Cocoa, referring purely to the activation and energizing of the human body and mind, has a longer-lasting effect and releases its energy more evenly.
Can I drink cocoa if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes. So far, there are no known side effects or experiences that would argue against consuming cocoa during these special times.
However, every body is different, and you should pay attention to how you feel.
Cocoa contains many nutrients that can be beneficial during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
You should probably pay attention to the dose. Excessive consumption of cocoa can lead to heart palpitations, restlessness, or diarrhea.
Towards the end of your pregnancy, you can consider using cocoa and discuss it with your midwife/doctor. Cocoa has a mild(!) labor-inducing effect and can be a helpful companion during childbirth.
The basic rule is always to pay attention to your body and talk to your doctor or midwife if you have any concerns.
Is the cocoa also suitable for children?
In our experience, our cocoa is also wonderfully suitable for children. Just like with adults, it has a heart-opening and harmonizing effect, often provides balanced energy, and can support emotional well-being.
However, as with everything, each child reacts individually: While some parents report that their child is particularly lively after cocoa, others say that their child becomes calmer and more relaxed as a result.
Cacao is one of the most complex and nutrient-rich foods we know – and in our view, it definitely has its place in a conscious diet, even for children. It's wonderful when parents approach the experience openly, without expectations – and simply observe how their child reacts to the cacao.
Ceremonies & Community
How does a cacao ceremony work?
This can vary greatly – because basically anything can be a ceremony .
A teacher once said in my presence:
"If you take away everything from the form and what remains is love, then everything is right."
– Ana Lahak, Mexican medicine woman
And that's exactly what it's about: A ceremony is a consciously experienced moment.
All of life is a ceremony – we just rarely notice it.
When I design a cacao ceremony, my aim is to arrive in the moment , to become aware that this moment contains all of creation – and that I myself am both a part of it and the whole.
Or, as Rumi essentially said:
“I am a drop of water in the ocean – and the ocean is in the drop of water.”
How did you first encounter cacao ceremonies?
I experienced my first cacao ceremony almost ten years ago with Nana Marina , a medicine woman at Lago de Atitlán in Guatemala – an experience that profoundly shaped me.
The cocoa is lovingly roasted there, peeled by hand, ground and then cooked – yes, you heard right, cooked!
I remember how surprised I was when Nana Marina looked at me and said:
“Well, you gringo – you’re probably thinking: Why is she boiling the cocoa, all the nutrients get destroyed that way?”
Busted. That's exactly what I thought.
But she smiled and explained:
"You Europeans are so fanatical about your diet. Cacao consists of all the elements – including fire. When I prepare the cacao and tune into the group, I feel how much transformative fire is needed – and accordingly, I cook it for a long time."
These words have permanently changed my view on cocoa.
What happens during a cacao ceremony?
After the cacao has been blessed, sung about, and charged with intention , the actual ceremony begins.
A fire is lit, the cardinal directions and elements are invoked, and the spirit of cocoa is invited.
In Guatemala, tobacco and flowers are also given as gifts to Mother Earth, the water, the air and the fire – as an expression of gratitude and connection.
In traditional medicine, tobacco is considered the first plant spirit to come to Earth and is revered as a great teacher.
As the cacao takes effect after about 45 minutes, the heart opens, the mind becomes clear, and an inner journey begins – often accompanied by music, prayers, or quiet moments.
Feelings are allowed to flow: tears, laughter, peace.
It's about opening the heart, cleansing, forgiveness and connection – with oneself, the group and the earth.
Is there a specific ritual associated with drinking?
Yes – before I drink the cocoa, I offer the first drop to Mother Earth or Grandfather Fire .
This is an act of gratitude and a reminder that all life is interconnected.
What is the goal of a cacao ceremony?
There is no fixed goal.
Cacao invites us to slow down , to feel ourselves and to meet ourselves, others and the moment with an open heart .
It is less about doing than about being.
And sometimes that's all it takes to make a difference.
Can I visit one of your cocoa haciendas?
Yes very much!
I, David , and sometimes other members of the Maya Munay team , travel to the cocoa haciendas of our projects every year at the beginning of the year. There, we support the work on site, get our hands dirty with the soil and the cocoa trees – and learn anew each time from the wonderful, loving people who live and work there.
The next trip will take place in March 2026 .
You are cordially invited to join us – for one week or, if you wish, for up to four weeks .
We will support you with the organization and will be there for you throughout the entire process.
On site, you essentially cover your own costs and contribute to the projects and the organization of Maya Munay .
Can I also meditate or practice yoga with your cacao?
Yes, absolutely!
Cacao is a wonderful companion for yoga, meditation , or a conscious ceremony with yourself .
He supports you in traveling inward, opening your heart, and entering into a loving dialogue with the spirit of cacao .
Many people experience a deeper connection to themselves, to their body, and to the moment.
Cocoa can also have a gentle, connecting and heart-opening effect during dance rituals , creative work or in mindful togetherness with your partner .
How can I collaborate with you?
You can be an ambassador for us. You can share our cacao with others as an affiliate or as a B2B customer. If you share ceremonies with our cacao, you can let interested parties know by adding your ceremony/event to our event calendar on our website. Here are the links to the relevant pages ( Affiliate , Ambassador , Tree Sponsorship , and the Event Calendar ).
Partnership & Support
Is there an affiliate system?
Yes, there is an affiliate program. Click here to learn more about the affiliate program.
How can I support your vision and your projects?
Wow, that's awesome that you're asking yourself this... You can share your ideas, inspirations, and your time with us on how you, along with cacao, would like to bring more peace to your world and ours, step by step. Of course, you can also donate money and/or sponsor a tree. Furthermore, you can help us bring cacao back into society as a third "power," alongside coffee and tea. Perhaps you know a local organic shop, a bar, or can think of anything else where you'd like to see us and our cacao. Become a tree sponsor!