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Zaruma Coffee Farm

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Aug 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

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Zaruma, one of Ecuador's oldest and most scenic cities, is world-famous for its premium highland coffee grown on steep slopes at altitudes exceeding 1,200 meters. The region's coffee farms benefit from a unique microclimate and mineral-rich volcanic soils, which impart an intense aroma and sophisticated acidity to the beans. Cultivation is largely performed using traditional manual labor under shade trees, a method that supports local biodiversity and soil health. Most Zaruma coffee consists of Arabica varieties, processed in small family-run mills that oversee every stage from harvesting and fermenting to roasting. Beyond agriculture, the city is renowned for its UNESCO-listed colonial wooden architecture and deep-rooted gold mining history, making coffee tourism a vital aspect of its cultural identity. A farm tour provides a firsthand look at the roasting process and the chance to enjoy the local 'Tigrillo' dish, traditionally paired with a fresh brew. Zaruma's coffee has consistently earned top honors at international trade fairs.

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A postcard from Zaruma Coffee Farm

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Location: Ecuador
Highlights: Loma Bonita · Museo Municipal · Iglesia La Florida
Nearby: Piñas (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	17	17	17	17	17	17	17	17	18	18	18	17
Rain mm	69	100	115	71	44	34	25	19	20	41	46	50

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Zaruma Coffee Farm in the mountainous El Oro region is famous for growing some of the best Arabica beans in South America. It significantly contributes to the local economy and coffee tourism.

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Visiting

The farm is often open to visitors, who can join guided tours through the coffee fields and processing. Access can be a bit challenging due to the altitude.

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Where to view it

Viewpoints on the farm offer broad vistas over the terraced coffee fields and surrounding mountains. From Zaruma town, you also get a beautiful view of the plantations.

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Local products

Besides high-quality coffee beans, the farm also grows bananas and oranges. Local markets in Zaruma sell coffee powder, honey, and handwoven baskets.

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Active season

Coffee harvest in Zaruma mainly spans from May to September. During this time, fields are full of ripe cherries and processing facilities are active.

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Nearby

Combine the plantation visit with exploring the historic gold mining town of Zaruma. Yacurí National Park with its lagoons and waterfalls is also nearby.

Geography

Coordinates

-3.69100, -79.61100

Facts

Cultivation altitude between 1,200 and 1,600 meters
Predominantly Arabica varieties (Typica, Bourbon)
Traditional shade-growing protects the soil
Zaruma is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status
Coffee farming has been established since the 19th century
Local specialty: coffee served with 'Tigrillo'

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Zaruma<1 km · WExplore →

Piñas8 km · WExplore →

Sanctuary of the Virgin of El Cisne27 km · SEExplore →

Catamayo43 km · SEExplore →

Pasaje46 km · NWExplore →

Santa Rosa47 km · NWExplore →

Arenillas Ecological Reserve52 km · WExplore →

Arenillas53 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

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Sights in the town Zaruma Coffee Farm (6)

Loma Bonita 🌿 nature

A prominent mountain peak named for its scenic, elevated viewpoints.

Museo Municipal 🏛 museum

A civic museum preserving and displaying the municipal history and cultural heritage.

🕒 Mo-Fr 08:00-17:00; Sa, Su 09:00-16:00

Iglesia La Florida ⛪ religious

A Christian church serving the spiritual needs of the La Florida community.

Cascada "Arco Iris"📍 landmark

A natural waterfall where sunlight often creates a visible rainbow in the cascading mist.

Cruz y Urna de Cristo 📍 landmark

This religious monument near Kaffeefarm Zaruma Life features a cross and an urn, serving as a site for reflection.

San Antonio📍 landmark

Set in the scenic coffee-growing area of Zaruma, this local attraction provides visitors a glimpse into the rural surroundings of San Antonio.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is the coffee harvest season?

The main harvest in Zaruma takes place between June and October.

Can you buy coffee directly?

Yes, most farms sell their freshly roasted coffee directly to visitors on-site.

How long does a tour take?

A standard tour takes about 1.5 to 2 hours including tasting.

What is the typical breakfast?

Tigrillo (mashed green plantains) along with local Zaruma coffee is a must-try.

Is the farm located in the mountains?

Yes, Zaruma is at about 1,200 m, which gives the coffee its special aroma.

Zaruma Coffee Farm: where is it located?

Zaruma Coffee Farm is located in Ecuador.

Zaruma Coffee Farm: what is there to see?

Highlights include Loma Bonita, Museo Municipal, Iglesia La Florida.

Zaruma Coffee Farm: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.

Zaruma Coffee Farm: why is it worth visiting?

Zaruma, one of Ecuador's oldest and most scenic cities, is world-famous for its premium highland coffee grown on steep slopes at altitudes exceeding 1,200 meters.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Zaruma Coffee Farm

How well do you know Ecuador?

A postcard from Zaruma Coffee Farm

Best time to visit & climate