The Best Places to Sample Exotic Ecuadorian Chocolate in Quito

Exotic gourmet chocolate is a hot commodity in world markets, and Ecuador is meeting the demand with ample supply. For chocolate-lovers traveling in Quito, a visit to the the popular Mariscal Foch plaza provides an expedient cacao tour with three local companies—Republica del Cacao, Pacari, and Kallari—which not only grow their own cacao but create specialized brands for adventurous chocolate connoisseurs.
Since the mid-1800s, Ecuador has been producing cacao, the core ingredient in chocolate, to sell to corporate chocolate producers (such as Hershey’s and Nestlé) in the United States. Yet at the end of the 20th century, gourmet chocolate—organic, dark, flavored, and sans milk—emerged as a popular, fashionable ware in the world market. Enterprising Ecuadorians were quick to capitalize on this trend and began to manufacture their own exotic brands targeted towards foreign customers. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.