The Fazenda and My Horse
by NedHopkins
Brazil produced more than 90 percent of the world's cocoa crop -- and made a handful of 'cocoa barons' fabulously wealthy -- until after World War II, when a devastating disease struck the trees. Today over 95 percent of all cocoa beans are harvested in West Africa -- though most are shipped to Ilheus for processing.
The fourth-generation owner of the fazenda -- which still produces a small crop -- explains everything from care of the trees to preparation of the beans.
Lunch (not included) is at a rodizio halfway between the fazenda and Ilheus. At R$15 (US$5.23) it is a bargain.
If you go, avoid 'my' horse: you can walk from the casa to the orchard in half the time it takes this poor nag. Leave a Comment
Other Contact: NV Turismo (near R. Jorge Amado)
