Exploring Costa Rica’s Coffee – A Journey Through Volcanic Highlands

Published on March 07, 2025

Poás volcano, Alajuela Costa Rica

At Expedition Society Adventure Coffee, every brew is an invitation to explore the world’s wildest corners. Today, we’re embarking on an exhilarating expedition to the volcanic highlands of Costa Rica, where the lush landscapes of Alajuela yield some of the most vibrant coffee beans on the planet. Join us as we uncover the story behind our Costa Rica Alajuela single-origin coffee, from its sun-kissed origins to the sweet, honeyed notes in every cup. Grab your mug, step into your explorer’s boots, and let’s venture into the rainforest!

A Land of Volcanoes and Verdant Trails

Costa Rica is a land of natural wonders, where active volcanoes and dense rainforests create a paradise for coffee cultivation. The Alajuela region, nestled in the country’s Central Valley, is a hotspot for coffee production, with its rolling hills rising between 1,300 and 1,445 meters. This high-altitude terrain, enriched by volcanic loam soil, provides the perfect environment for coffee to thrive. Coffee arrived in Costa Rica in the late 18th century, and by the 19th century, it had become a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, with small farmers shaping its legacy.

Our Costa Rica Alajuela blend comes from micro farms tended by dedicated growers, who harness the region’s volcanic energy to produce exceptional beans. For Expedition Society, this connection to nature and tradition makes Costa Rican coffee a natural companion for adventurers seeking the road less traveled.

The Flavor of the Rainforest

What sets Costa Rican coffee apart? It’s the harmony of its flavors, born from the region’s unique terroir. The high altitudes and volcanic soils lend a bright acidity and full body, while the eco-pulped and sun-dried process enhances the beans’ natural sweetness. Costa Rican coffee is celebrated for its clean taste and nuanced notes—think sweet fruits, honey, and a silky finish that dances on the palate.

Our Costa Rica Alajuela Ground Coffee embodies this excellence. Sourced from micro farms in Alajuela at 1,300-1,445 meters, this medium roast features a delightful profile of sweet apple, raisin, and honey. Grown from Caturra and Catuai varieties in volcanic loam soil and eco-pulped before sun-drying, this blend offers a cup that’s as refreshing as a trek through Costa Rica’s rainforests. Whether you’re sipping it by a campfire or fueling your morning ascent, this coffee is your passport to a tropical adventure.

Sustainability in the Shade

At Expedition Society, we’re explorers of both flavor and ethics. Costa Rican coffee farmers often use shade-grown techniques, cultivating their crops under a canopy of native trees to protect biodiversity and the local ecosystem. The eco-pulped process, used for our Alajuela beans, minimizes water usage while preserving the coffee’s natural sugars, aligning with sustainable practices that honor the land.

When we partner with these micro farms, we’re not just sourcing coffee—we’re supporting a community of growers who preserve Costa Rica’s rich agricultural heritage. This commitment to sustainability is at the heart of every Expedition Society blend, inviting you to explore with a clear conscience.

Brewing Your Own Rainforest Expedition

Ready to taste the tropics? Here’s how to savor your Costa Rica Alajuela coffee:

• Method: A pour-over or French press will highlight the sweet apple and honey notes, bringing out the coffee’s bright acidity.

• Grind: Our Alajuela blend is ground for standard drip, but if you’re using whole beans, opt for a medium grind.

• Pairing: Pair this brew with a slice of banana bread or a drizzle of honey to amplify its fruity sweetness.

As you sip, picture yourself hiking through Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, the distant rumble of a volcano in the air, and the vibrant colors of the jungle all around. That’s the spirit of Expedition Society Adventure Coffee—every cup is a journey.

Join the Expedition

Costa Rica’s coffee is a celebration of nature, tradition, and adventure. At Expedition Society, we’re proud to bring this story to your mug with our Costa Rica Alajuela origin. So, whether you’re conquering a trail, exploring a new horizon, or simply dreaming of your next escape, let this coffee be your guide.

Ready to embark on your own rainforest adventure? Shop our Costa Rica Alajuela Ground Coffee and discover the flavors of the highlands today. Share your coffee-fueled journeys with us using #ExpeditionSociety—we can’t wait to see where your mug takes you!

Loved this Journey?

Discover more in our Single-Origin Expeditions category including the rugged trails of Peru!