COLOMBIA, TOLIMA MULTICOOP-ASOJUNTAS

Cordillera de Calarma is a prominent peak in the Andes within the Tolima Department, an area rich in cultural heritage. It was once inhabited by the indigenous Pijao tribe and now serves as a sanctuary for over 300 bird species and the native Spectacled Bear.

For local farmers in Cordillera de Calarma, coffee is the primary source of income. They also cultivate crops like beans, livestock, sugarcane, and cocoa to support their livelihoods. These small farms, typically ranging from one to three hectares and situated at altitudes between 1,500 to 2,200 meters above sea level, involve meticulous processes. Farmers hand-pick coffee cherries, depulp and ferment the beans for 18 to 48 hours, and sun-dry the coffee on the roofs of their homes and farm buildings.