Bolivia: Felipe Guarachi Tola - Finca Chuquiago

Washed Process∙Medium Roast

Intense molasses and dried grapefruit flavors with mild acidity and candy-like sweetness.

Grown at 1550 Meters Above Sea Level (MASL)

Our Origin Select coffee this month comes fromFinca Chuquiago, owned by Felipe Guarachi Tola, which is located in Bolivia’s La Paz region and is renowned for producing the Java coffee variety. Situated at approximately 1,550 meters above sea level, the farm benefits from fertile soils, abundant water resources, and a favorable climate that support the cultivation of high-quality specialty coffee. The farm’s name is derived from “Chuquiago Marka,” the indigenous Aymara name for the area that is now La Paz, reflecting a deep connection to the region’s cultural heritage.

La Paz, Bolivia’s most recognized coffee-growing department, lies in the country’s northwest and shares a border with Peru. Characterized by dramatic Andean landscapes and the forested Caranavi region, it has long been Bolivia’s most productive coffee-growing area. However, producers face challenges including high export costs associated with being landlocked, difficult mountain terrain, and competition from historically more profitable agricultural sectors.

Coffee processing in Bolivia closely resembles practices used by specialty producers in Colombia. Many smallholders invest in on-farm processing infrastructure, where coffee is carefully sorted, depulped, fermented, washed, and dried for approximately two weeks. Across the region, producers are dedicated to improving quality through better cultivation techniques, experimenting with new varieties and processing methods, and maintaining ecological balance. Farms range from coffee gardens similar to those found in Ethiopia to open-sun and shade-grown systems.

The growth of specialty coffee production, cooperatives, education, and market access has positioned Bolivia as an exciting origin for distinctive coffees. Producers in Caranavi and throughout La Paz continue to drive innovation while strengthening connections between indigenous communities and the global specialty coffee market.

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