Guatemala Guide
The Verapaces
Finca Santa Margarita
Address: Just south of the centre of town at 3 Calle 4–12, Zona 2
Opening time: Mon– Fri 8am–12.30pm & 1.30–5pm, Sat 8am– noon
Price: US$2.75
For a closer look at Cobán's principal crop, take the guided tour offered by the Finca Santa Margarita, a coffee plantation just south of the centre of town. The interesting tour (an English-speaking guide is usually available) covers the history of the finca, founded by the Dieseldorff family in 1888, and examines all the stages of cultivation and production, including a walk through the grounds. You also get a chance to sample different low-, middle- and high-altitude Arabica coffee blends and, of course, purchase some beans.