Guatemala Hunbatz

Nestled in the picturesque northwestern highlands of Guatemala, the Cuilco region of Huehuetenango is home to a dedicated group of small coffee producers who are the heart and soul of Hunbatz coffee. These artisans cultivate their coffee with care, drawing from centuries-old traditions passed down through generations. For every 30 kg bag of Hunbatz coffee sold, a tree is planted on behalf of the purchasing roaster, reinforcing a deep connection between the land and those who enjoy its bounty.

The name Hunbatz draws inspiration from the rich mythology of the Mayans, where the howler monkey god stood as a symbol of creativity, art, and music. As told in the Popol Vuh creation myth, the brothers Hunbatz and Hunchouen were skilled artists—masters of dance, sculpture, music, and more. Their talents embodied the spirit of craftsmanship, much like the farmers who produce this exceptional coffee. Transformed into monkeys through mythic adventures, their story resonates with the wisdom, artistry, and respect for nature that echo in every cup of Hunbatz coffee.

Many people cite Guatemala as their favourite coffee origin, and for good reason: coffees from here tend to be balanced and sweet but with lots of complexity, and the diverse regions from volcanoes to plateaus to rainforests provide a huge variety in growing conditions and terroir.

Guatemala is one of the world’s most renowned coffee-producing nations, and enjoys nigh-on perfect growing conditions across most of the country. Since its introduction in the mid-18th century, coffee has become a massively important part of Guatemala’s economy and culture.

With support from the national coffee association, Anacafé, Guatemala's coffee industry has grown to become the world's tenth largest producer, generating around 40 percent of the country's agricultural export revenue and supporting almost half a million families.

Speciality coffee is grown across eight distinct regions in Guatemala, designated by Anacafé as those producing Strictly Hard Bean (high altitude) coffee, and can be divided into five volcanic and three non-volcanic regions. Huehuetenango, one of our favourite coffee producing areas (which means 'Place of the Ancients') is the highest of the non-volcanic regions, located in the west of the country along the Mexican border and dominated by the Cuchumatanes Mountains.

Here, hot air sweeps across from the Plains of Tehuantepec in Mexico, and mixes with cooler mountainous air, creating a frost-proof microclimate that allows coffee to be cultivated up to 2,000 metres. Coffee from Huehuetenango (pronounced way-way-teh-nahn-go) is much sought-after and often places highly in Guatemala's Cup of Excellence competition.

Our speciality coffees are 100% traceable and ethically sourced. We work direct with farmers, or through trusted partners, to bring you the best coffee from around the world.

Sourced in partnership with: Caribbean Goods
Producer relationship length: 2 years

Caribbean Goods is dedicated to sourcing high-quality Guatemalan coffee through ethical, transparent trade. By building direct relationships with farmers, they ensure fair pay, sustainability, and exceptional coffee for roasters in the UK.