Origen Ecuador
The oldest cacao in the world.
Ecuador is the cradle of cacao. Its history of domestication dates back more than 5,300 years, making it the oldest known origin of cultivated cacao in the world.
This knowledge is supported by research led by Dr. Francisco Valdez, along with scientists Sonia Zarrillo from the University of Calgary and Claire Lanaud from CIRAD France. Their work has confirmed that it was in this territory where humans first began to cultivate and transform cacao.
In Palanda, in the Ecuadorian Amazon, intact tombs and pottery dating back to 3,000 BC were discovered, containing traces of cacao DNA. A finding that rewrites the history of chocolate as we know it.
Research funded by France through IRD (Institut de la Recherche pour le Développement).
At Origen Ecuador, we are committed to projects — both public and private — that promote the preservation of fine aroma national cacao, an emblematic variety of Ecuador recognized worldwide for its exceptional aromatic profile.
This is not about excluding other varieties: any cacao deserves attention and respect, as long as natural cultivation, fermentation, and drying processes are preserved, and the soil is nurtured according to its own needs.
Because great cacao is not only about genetics — it is also about listening, patience, and respect for the ecosystem that sustains it.