How Coffee Grows in Costa Rica: From Seed to Cup
Costa Rica is world-renowned for its smooth, flavorful coffee—but how exactly does it go from a tiny seed to the delicious brew in your cup?
In this article, we’ll explore how coffee grows in Costa Rica, the regions where it thrives, and how you can experience the process firsthand during your visit.
A Quick Look at Costa Rica’s Coffee Legacy
Costa Rica began cultivating coffee in the late 1700s, and it quickly became one of the country’s most important exports. Today, it’s not just an economic staple, it’s a proud part of Costa Rican culture and identity.
Costa Rica even banned the production of low-quality coffee in 1989, becoming the first country to officially require only Arabica beans (the highest quality variety) for commercial farming.
Step-by-Step: How Coffee Grows in Costa Rica
1. Planting the Coffee Seedlings
The process starts with Arabica coffee seeds, which are planted in high-altitude nurseries—typically between 3,000 and 6,000 feet above sea level. Costa Rica’s volcanic soil, consistent rainfall, and warm days make it an ideal environment.
After about 6–12 months, the young plants are strong enough to be transplanted into the fields.
2. Growing and Flowering
Coffee plants take about 3 years to mature. Once established, they bloom with delicate white flowers that smell like jasmine—this happens once a year, usually around April or May.
Climate Tip:
Costa Rica’s dry season (Dec–Apr) helps concentrate the sugars in the beans, contributing to the coffee’s signature bright acidity and smooth flavor.
3. Coffee Cherries Ripen
Over several months, the flowers give way to small green cherries that gradually ripen into a deep red. This stage is visually stunning and critical.
- Harvest season begins between October and March, depending on the region.
✅ Fun fact: Only ripe cherries are handpicked in Costa Rica—this selective harvesting is key to maintaining quality.
4. Processing the Coffee
After picking, the cherries are quickly transported to a beneficio (processing mill), where the beans are extracted and cleaned.
There are three main methods:
- Washed (wet) process: Beans are removed from the cherry and fermented in water
- Honey process: Some fruit is left on the bean to enhance sweetness
- Natural process: Cherries are sun-dried whole, lending fruity flavors
Each process gives the final coffee its unique profile!
5. Drying and Milling
After fermentation or drying, beans are further dried under the sun or mechanically. Once fully dry, the beans are hulled to remove parchment and polished before being sorted by size, weight, and color.
The result? Green coffee beans ready for roasting.
6. Roasting and Brewing
Roasting is an art form, and Costa Rica is home to some world-class roasters. Depending on the roast level (light, medium, or dark), different flavor notes emerge—from floral and citrusy to chocolatey and rich.
☕ The final step? Brewing—and enjoying a fresh cup of Costa Rican coffee, ideally while overlooking the very mountains where it was grown.
🌄 Best Coffee Regions to Visit in Costa Rica
If you want to see Costa Rica coffee production up close, these regions offer authentic experiences:
1. Central Valley (Alajuela, Heredia)
- Close to San José
- Easy to visit on a day trip
- Famous farms: Doka Estate, Café Britt
2. Tarrazú
- Premier high-altitude region south of San José
- Known for bright acidity and strong aromas
- Visit Coopedota or take a local tour in Santa María
3. Monteverde
- Cloud forest coffee with unique flavor
- Ideal for eco-conscious travelers
- Combine a coffee and chocolate tour with nature hikes
4. Naranjo & Grecia
- Less touristy, more traditional
- Beautiful scenery and family-run farms
- Try Mi Cafecito or Espiritu Santo
✅ RideWise Tip: We offer private transportation to these coffee regions—perfect for half-day or full-day excursions.
🚐 How to Explore Costa Rica’s Coffee Culture with RideWise
Don’t worry about renting a car or navigating rural roads. Let RideWise handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience. You can reach out on WhatsApp and we will create a custom itinerary for your excursion.
Our services include:
- 🚐 Private shuttles from San José, La Fortuna, or the coast
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly and group options
- 🌧️ Comfortable vehicles for all-weather travel
🧳 Experience the Journey from Bean to Brew
Learning how coffee grows in Costa Rica adds a whole new layer to your morning cup. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a full-on fanatic, visiting a farm or mill is one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can have in the country.
Let us help you get there—comfortably, safely, and on your schedule.