A Day of Discovery: Our Students’ Field Trip to Finca La Azotea

 

 

Our eager students stepped out of the classroom and into the sprawling, green embrace of Finca La Azotea, a renowned coffee farm with over 150 years of history in Jocotenango, near the historic city of Antigua Guatemala. This field trip wasn’t merely a break from routine; it was an immersive plunge into the essence of Guatemalan culture, agriculture, and natural beauty.

 

 

Delving into Guatemalan Coffee and Chocolate

At the heart of Finca La Azotea is its dedication to coffee cultivation, which provided our students with a firsthand look at the lifecycle of coffee beans. The highlight for many was the chance to participate in picking coffee beans themselves, engaging directly with the farm’s lush environment and gaining a tangible understanding of the work that goes into producing every cup of coffee.

But the learning didn’t stop with coffee. The finca also offered an insightful tour on the production of chocolate from cacao pods. Our students traced the journey of cacao, from its raw form as pods hanging from trees, through the fermentation and drying processes, to its transformation into the chocolate we love. This hands-on experience underscored the importance of traditional farming techniques and the artisanal craftsmanship that characterizes Guatemalan chocolate making.

 

 

Experiencing Local Music

Another unforgettable aspect of our trip was the introduction to local music. Through interactive demonstrations, our students were not only spectators but became participants in the rich musical traditions of Guatemala. They learned about the variety of instruments unique to the region, the cultural significance behind different musical styles, and even tried their hands at creating some of the harmonious sounds themselves. This engaging experience brought to life the vibrant spirit and heritage of Guatemala, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

 

 

Engagement with Nature and Education

Amidst the educational tours, our students also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the finca’s vast natural spaces. They roamed the coffee fields, walked through botanical gardens, and witnessed the biodiversity that thrives in this fertile region. It was a chance to connect with nature, appreciate its beauty, and understand the crucial role it plays in agriculture and culture.

 

Reflections on a Day Well Spent

The journey back from Finca La Azotea was filled with excited chatter, as students shared their amazement and the new knowledge they had gained. It was evident that the day had sparked curiosity, inspiring many to further explore topics of agriculture, environmental sustainability, and cultural heritage. 

The field trip to Finca La Azotea underscored the invaluable lessons that come from exploring the world beyond our classrooms. By engaging directly with the people, practices, and places that shape Guatemalan culture, our students gained a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the world. This hands-on learning experience enriched their education, broadening their perspectives and fostering a sense of global citizenship.

As educators at one of the best schools in Guatemala, it’s our aim at CDA to ignite such sparks of curiosity and understanding in our students. Experiences like our field trip to Finca La Azotea are vital stepping stones in that journey, offering lessons that textbooks alone cannot provide. We look forward to embarking on many more adventures, each one an integral thread in the tapestry of our students’ education.