La Llama, Bolivia | Washed

The small ten-hectare farm is located in the settlement of Villa Rosario, in a lush and steep mountain valley just outside the town of Caranavi. Reaching the farm’s highest point is an adventure in itself, requiring a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the winding, narrow roads that cut through the rugged terrain. As you ascend, you pass through perfectly spaced rows of coffee plants surrounded by diverse native and timber trees. These trees not only provide essential shade for the coffee plants but also contribute to the farm’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

La Llama is perched at an impressive 1,650 meters above sea level, making it the highest farm among those managed by Los Rodriguez. This elevation creates an ideal environment for coffee cultivation, with daytime temperatures that are mild and nighttime temperatures that are significantly cooler. These conditions slow down the maturation of the coffee cherries, allowing sugars to develop more fully. The result is a sweeter, more flavorful coffee bean that reflects the care and patience invested in the process. Adding to the farm’s unique atmosphere, a mystical fog often rolls in during the early mornings and late afternoons, blanketing the exotic coffee varieties such as SL28, SL34, and Geisha. This fog is a product of the farm’s distinct microclimate, where shifting temperatures and mineral-rich soil provide the perfect balance for healthy and productive coffee plants.

The name “La Llama” pays homage to Bolivia’s most iconic animal, the llama. These hump-less cousins of the camel have been integral to life in the Andean highlands for centuries, serving as pack animals and symbols of resilience. When the Agricafé team first explored the land, they encountered a llama standing proudly on the terrain. With its pointed ears and watchful expression, it seemed to declare ownership of the land, almost as if warning, “come near my land and I’ll spit on you.” Inspired by this encounter, the team named the farm La Llama, embracing the creature’s spirited presence as part of the farm’s identity.

The farm was already an established coffee plantation, with trees that were 15 years old when it was acquired. Since then, it has become a centerpiece of Agricafé’s operations. It is home to several exceptional coffee varietals, including Geisha, Batian, Ethiosar, SL28, SL34, Orange Caturra, and Java. The farm also supports reforestation efforts, with trees such as Tajibos, Mara, and Ceibo planted to enhance the environment and preserve the ecosystem.

During the harvest season, which runs from April to November,

La Llama is a bustling hub of activity, with 50 to 200 pickers carefully harvesting cherries at their peak ripeness. The meticulous care taken during every step of the process—from cultivation to harvest—ensures that the coffee from La Llama reflects the farm’s dedication to quality and sustainability.