El Eden’s Mexican Guerrero comes to us from the El Eden Cooperative*, located in Atoyac de Alvarez, Guerrero, Mexico. Atoyac de Alvarez is located high in the jungle, approximately 200 miles southwest of Mexico City, nestled between the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Seirre Madre Sur Mountains to the north. Atoyac’s location, though difficult to access, is near optimal for growing coffee — dense jungles canopies, cool ocean water, and high altitudes (4,000 – 4,500 feet above sea level).
El Eden is a beautiful community nestled into the foothills of Tiotepec (3,550 meters), Guerrero’s highest peak. Despite being only 30 miles from the Pacific coast, El Eden remains one of Mexico’s most remote locations due to the arduous 3 hour journey up the dense, forested mountain. Those who do make it to the El Eden, after taking in the stunning views, will notice the lack of a gas station, grocery store, running electricity (which stops at El Eden) and communication lines. Many residents still have homes warmed by burning stoves and lit solely by candle light. The community’s only line of communication to the outside world is a telephone booth that announces callers through a loudspeaker. El Eden has no permanent police department or mayor and most community members hold dual coffee and community roles. People live humble, dignified lives.
*The El Eden Cooperative partners with Tiger Orchid Coffee Company, a direct trade green coffee retailer, to ensure all co-op members receive continued education, resources, and a fair market price.
Coffee with the Queen 