La Esperanza

Huehuetenango (often called ‘Huehue’) is located in the west of Guatemala, on the border with Mexico, and trade across the border thrives. Huehuetenango was the ancient center of the Mam people, and their capital Zaculeu is preserved in the city; Popti speakers can also be found here. After defeating the Mam at Zaculeu, Spanish invaders forced many indigenous people to work in mines and on plantations in this region.

Huehue is very remote and the roads in the region can be difficult; before flights from the city, reaching farms in this area used to take 8-10 hours of bumpy driving in the high mountains. But the altitude of this region, combined with the hot dry winds that blow over from Mexico’s Tehuantepec Plain, create excellent conditions for quality coffee here. Because of the altitudes and remoteness of the region, most farmers process their coffee at home rather than at a central wet mill.

Over the years we have gained experience and knowledge about the area, farming practices and post-harvest processing, which has enabled us to empower and support the local farmers through trade and our agronomy program. We have become well known in the area, making a point to work with the new generation to create a more sustainable coffee industry in Huehue. Huehuetenango is known for beans with an intense and pleasant acidity, full body and delightful wine, floral and fruity notes.