Nature and farming

Plantation tours

From sprout to cup: journey to coffee and tea lands

ChillDry 2–6 hours Year-round; coffee harvest — October–January, tea — year-round 4 places

What it is and why

Vietnam is one of world leaders by export of coffee and tea, and best plantations are hidden in highland areas. Excursion is opportunity to see how coffee tree looks, how tea leaf is harvested manually and what secrets of processing distinguish farmer coffee from industrial.

You will not just walk on terraced slopes, but also take part in process: from harvesting berries to roasting beans in wood stove. In many places (especially in Da Lat or on plateau of Tuyen Nguyen) owners of plantations will treat you with freshly brewed drink with view on valleys, where often gather morning fogs.

Where to do it in Vietnam

Points on the map are real places where this activity can be done. Numbers in the list match the markers.

Coffee terraces of Da Lat
Da Lat
Center of growing of high quality arabica. Many private farms with master classes.
O Long tea plantations
Sapa
Famous tea terraces on slopes of mountains, best views in region.
Pepper farms of Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc
Unique black and white pepper. Can buy fresh spices directly from bush.
Coffee belt of Buon Ma Thuot
Dak Lak
Most large-scale region of production of robusta in Vietnam.

Tips

Best time for visit — morning (before 10:00), to catch process of harvesting before active sun.
Wear comfortable shoes with closed toe — walks on hills can be dusty or slippery after rain.
If you plan to buy coffee or tea home, take products directly on plantation: they are fresher than shop and often cheaper.
Do not hesitate to ask about processing methods (honey, wet or dry method) — farmers love to tell about their production.

Caution

In lunch time on open plantations very hot — do not forget headwear and sun protection cream.
Be ready to active presence of insects, use repellents when walking between beds.