Paccari Chocolate has long held a special place in our chocolate-loving hearts—not just for their mouthwatering mix of rich dark chocolate and vibrant Ecuadorian fruits, but for their commitment to organic and sustainable practices. That’s why we’re happy to announce that Paccari is available in the United States via Amazon! That means we can get our fix of this award-winning Ecuadorian chocolate even when we’ve polished off all the bars from our last trip.
Never heard of Paccari? Or curious about how to experience it right at the source in Quito? Read on!
Paccari’s Origins
Created as a family business in 2002, Paccari’s founders Santiago Peralta and Carla Barbotó have always put farmers first. For decades, they have championed regenerative agricultural practices and established direct trade with small-scale farmers, many from Indigenous Kichwa communities. This dedication is reflected in their name; Pacari -with a single c- means nature in Kichwa (Why Kichwa and Not Quechua?).
If you come across both Pacari and Paccari in your searches or older photos, don’t worry—it’s the same beloved brand. The name Pacari was used until 2024, when the company rebranded to celebrate their 20th anniversary. It’s a small change, but it might take time for online sources to fully catch up. Moving forward, it’s Paccari!
One aspect the company didn’t need to rebrand is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. From the beginning, Pacari has championed biodynamic cultivation, encouraging their farming partners to embrace polyculture methods rather than monocropping. This approach not only protects the land but also fosters biodiversity, including the preservation of wildlife and traditional medicinal plants. Their philosophy is deeply rooted in Ecuador’s ancient connection to cacao, honoring the traditions and practices that cultivated chocolate thousands of years before it reached Mesoamerica (The Surprising History of Chocolate). As the company proudly states, they “respect the ancient traditions of Ecuadorian cacao” while innovating for a sustainable future.
Crafting Chocolate That Reflects A Sense of Place
Since living in Quito, I’ve had a love affair with Paccari Chocolate. My favorite flavors featured Ecuadorian ingredients little-known in the United States, like sunfo, a tiny aromatic herb reminiscent of mint, and uvilla, a small orange fruit often called a Cape Gooseberry. But I also love other flavors, including Andean blueberry, ginger and chia seed, coffee, cardamom, Yerba Mate, and even hot pepper.
I always carried a bar stuffed into the side pocket of my backpack for easy access, especially during high-altitude hikes. Many Ecuadorians swear by dark chocolate as a remedy for altitude sickness—some believe the caffeine content can ease minor headaches caused by the elevation. While it’s not a substitute for addressing serious symptoms (Tackling High Altitude), it’s a delightful excuse to keep chocolate close at hand!
Paccari’s Awards and Recognitions
We’re not alone in thinking that Paccari Chocolate is worth seeking out. With an impressive 300+ awards —including the prestigious 2023 International Chocolate Awards for flavors like Piño Marítimo, Passion Fruit, and Lemon Verbena— it’s clear that Paccari is celebrated worldwide. These achievements highlight not only their exceptional quality but also their bold, innovative approach to flavor, reflecting the rich diversity of Ecuador.
They have also won awards for Vegan chocolate – every bar is made without dairy products. If you are unsure which you might want to try, consider their pack of mini bars with a variety of their most popular flavors.
Paccari in Quito
If you find yourself in Quito craving a chocolate fix, I highly recommend the Paccari Chocolate Experience House and sales room in La Floresta. The cafe boasts a privileged view of the city from its back balcony. Indulge in chocolate in all its forms, from bars to delicious cakes and ice cream. Pair your dessert with a mean mocha, tasty hot chocolate, or smooth cafe Americano if you prefer a bitter contrast to your sweet dessert.
For those exploring Quito’s Historic Center, Paccari also has a tasting room and café on the Plaza Grande. While it’s a lovely spot, we prefer heading to other tasting experiences in Old Town. That said, if you’re tight on time, this location offers a convenient way to sample Paccari’s delights while soaking in the history of Quito.
Want to experience Paccari like a local? Head to one of their cafes in Quicentro or Cumbaya. Paccari has made serious inroads in the trendy cafe scene where friends and office mates converge in the late afternoon. Don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table!
Buying Paccari Chocolate To Take Home
Even with Paccari’s availability on Amazon, we highly recommend stocking up on new and unique flavor combinations while in Quito. The Paccari Amazon Stock of fan favorites, like this pack of mini bars, sells out quickly and restocking can take time.
For the best prices, head to the Paccari store in La Floresta, where you’ll find a wide selection at reasonable prices. If you’re lucky, you might also stumble across a bargain at local grocery stores like SuperMaxi, especially during a sale. However, keep in mind that grocery stores may have a more limited selection of flavors.
While you can find Paccari Chocolate at artisan markets and gift shops, I don’t recommend buying bars from these locations. The slower turnover rate means the chocolate may not be as fresh as elsewhere. And if you’ve waited until the last minute, don’t worry, you can still grab Paccari Chocolate at Quito’s International Airport before your flight home!
Remember to buy enough for friends and family! When gifting Paccari Chocolate bars, you’re sharing more than chocolate—you’re offering a piece of Ecuador.
