There is a peculiarity in Nicaragua: although there are many cocoa trees,  it is not always possible to buy chocolate in a store. It’s just too warm. So many types of chocolate melt: it’s unprofitable for sellers!

But there is one unusual place in Matagalpa where they try to put things in order and provide chocolate lovers with the right product! This place is called the Cocoa Castle (El Castillo del Cacao). It`s a small local chocolate factory where chocolate sweets so loved by many are made.

This is a real castle: you notice it already under the hill by the characteristic contours of the building with crenelated walls and turrets.

Walking tours provide complete immersion in the process of chocolate production. There, much is still done manually, as it was many years ago. The factory is working on the production of chocolate with a cocoa content of 75% or 50% and various additives: cashew nuts, ground coffee or coarse grinding cocoa beans. Adults are offered to try rum candies, where liquid chocolate is mixed with cane rum to create a thin, soft mass with a faint aroma of the drink. A walk inflames the chocolate appetite. Therefore tasting is one of the most pleasant moments in getting to know the Cocoa Castle. You should try liquid chocolate and various types of off-the-shelf products. And, of course, you need to stock up on sweet support to continue your journey around the city or country!

The Cocoa Castle is located in the suburb of Matagalpa, near the highway to La Dalia. A magnificent view of the surrounding landscapes opens from the slope of the castle hill. The factory building is not a house of the nobility or the king, but simply a castle-style structure. However, appearance is not as important as what is happening inside. This is one of the most famous chocolate factories in Nicaragua.

The factory was not always located in the castle. It all started with a modest room of about 20 square meters. The construction of the castle was possible thanks to the enthusiasm of employees who were determined to create a success story. The Cocoa Castle not only tries to create new jobs in Nicaragua but also supports the conservation and restoration of forests, lands, and the environment as a whole.

And the chocolate produced in the castle is made from organic ingredients, including organic cocoa: beans are processed right on the spot. The factory buys beans from local farmers who also try to grow organic products.