Central American Green Coffee Beans

Central American Green Coffee Beans

Central America produces some of the world’s most highly regarded coffees, including Costa Rican Tarrazú, Guatemalan Huehuetenango, and Panama’s sought-after Hacienda La Esmeralda. Known for their bright acidity, medium body, and refined flavours, these coffees offer a cleaner, more balanced profile than their South American counterparts, often with subtle chocolatey aromas. Grown at high elevations in volcanic soil and diverse microclimates, flavours vary from farm to farm, but those who love a bright, complex cup will find plenty to explore.

Looking to make a saving?

Build your own one-off bundle. Choose from a diverse selection expertly curated coffees from across over 30 countries as save up to 20%.

Start building bundle
  • Which country in Central America has the best coffee?

    It’s hard to say which Central American country has the “best” coffee beans—it really comes down to your personal taste. This region is a coffee lover’s dream, offering an incredible variety of flavors thanks to its unique climates, rich volcanic soils, and dedication to quality. Here’s a quick guide to what makes coffee from Guatemala, Panama, and Costa Rica stand out:

    Guatemala

    Guatemala is the second-largest coffee producer in Central America and is known for its beautifully balanced coffees. The regions of Antigua, Huehuetenango, and areas near Lake Atitlán produce some of the best beans, thanks to the rich volcanic soil and high altitudes. If you enjoy coffee with medium-high acidity, a medium body, and notes of berries and citrus, you’ll love what Guatemala has to offer.

    Panama

    Panama might be small, but it punches well above its weight in the coffee world, especially with its famed Geisha variety. Originally planted for its resistance to disease, Geisha has become one of the most sought-after coffees in the world for its floral, fruity, and tea-like flavors. More broadly, Panamanian coffee tends to have medium-high acidity, a full mouthfeel, and a mix of citrus, deep berry, chocolate, and fruit notes. If you’re after something elegant and complex, Panama’s coffees are worth exploring.

    Costa Rica

    Costa Rica is all about quality and innovation. The country’s diverse landscapes create a wide range of flavor profiles, but its coffees are known for being clean, balanced, and vibrant. If you try beans from the Tarrazu region, you’ll often find notes of chocolate, berries, apple, honey, and brown sugar, along with a creamy sweetness and lively acidity. Costa Rica is also famous for its honey process, which produces coffees with juicy, sweet, and sometimes more fruity flavours depending on how the beans are dried.

  • How do we source Central American coffee sustainably and transparently?

    We source our Central American coffee through trusted partnerships with four remarkable organisations: Caribbean Goods in Guatemala, Aguilera Coffee Traders in Costa Rica, Ensambles Cafés Mexicanos in Mexico, and Caldera Coffees in Panama. These partners share our commitment to sustainability, transparency, and uplifting the farmers behind every bean.

    In Guatemala, Caribbean Goods works closely with local farmers, ensuring fair practices and sustainable production. Founded by Javier Gutiérrez Abril, whose deep ties to Guatemalan coffee-growing communities inspire his work, the company helps produce exceptional coffees from regions like Antigua and Huehuetenango while creating meaningful opportunities for local farmers.

    Aguilera Coffee Traders in Costa Rica is led by Dylan Aguilera, a third-generation coffee expert whose family has grown coffee for over 60 years. Known for their innovative approaches and exceptional varieties, Aguilera’s team ensures that Costa Rican coffee, especially from regions like Tarrazú, delivers outstanding quality while fostering sustainable partnerships between farmers and roasters.

    In Mexico, Ensambles Cafés Mexicanos emphasises sustainability through shade-grown coffee and direct collaboration with small-scale farmers, while Caldera Coffees celebrates the unique flavours of Panama, including its world-famous Geisha variety. Both partners are passionate about preserving their countries’ coffee heritage while ensuring a transparent, eco-friendly supply chain. By working with these incredible organisations, we bring you coffee that supports both people and the planet.

  • Can you facilitate custom sourcing for specific Central American countries, processing methods, or varietals?

    Yes, we can! With strong partnerships across Central America—Caribbean Goods in Guatemala, Aguilera Coffee Traders in Costa Rica, Ensambles Cafés Mexicanos in Mexico, and Caldera Coffees in Panama—we can source exceptional coffees tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for specific varietals, innovative processing methods like honey or natural, or coffees from a particular region, we’re here to help.

    Contact us at hello@greencoffeecollective.com, and let’s find the perfect coffee for you.

  • Discover the Heart of Specialty: Central American Green Coffee Beans

    Central America is the center of the global green coffee trade. It is known for growing unroasted coffee beans that always meet the highest standards for quality, traceability, and cup flavor. This area has a huge variety of flavors, from the volcanic peaks of Guatemala to the misty mountain ranges of Costa Rica and Honduras. It's perfect for roasters who want complex, balanced, and reliable coffee.


    If you're looking for a microlot project or want to make a versatile house mix, Central American green coffees are a good place to start. Their beans are praised all over the world for having clean acidity, layered sweetness, and elegant structure. They should be a part of any well-rounded green coffee collection.

    The people who grow these beans are what make them stand out, not just the taste. A lot of the coffee in Central America comes from small-scale farmers who are proud of the environmentally friendly and safe farming methods that they have often been passed down from generation to generation. Their commitment to quality and careful processes after harvesting make sure that you get green beans that roast evenly and taste great in a variety of ways.

     
    In the UK and Europe, people want green coffee that can be tracked and was grown in an ethical way. Central American sources are still the best choice for roasters who won't skimp on ethics or cup quality.

  • Why Central American Green Coffee Beans Are Famous

    Roasters and buyers of green coffee beans from Central America have long known that these beans have unique cup qualities, are clear in their location, and can be used in many different ways around the world. Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua all have their own unique expressions based on their altitude, microclimate, and traditional farming methods.


    The variety that Central American green coffee adds to the table is what makes it so sought after. For instance, the bright citrus and stone fruit notes of beans from Costa Rica's Tarrazú region go well with the chocolatey depth and smooth body of beans from western Honduras. Roasters can use this kind of geographical variety to create their own unique flavor profiles or add subtle depth to blends that are good enough to win competitions.

    The area's stronghold in the world of specialty coffee isn't by chance. Many producers in Central America are constantly working on new ways to process their grapes, such as using washed, honey, natural, and experimental fermentation styles that are meant to show off the varietal and terroir in the best way possible. These methods have not only improved quality, but they have also earned the company a lot of praise in international coffee events, including regular spots in the Cup of Excellence auctions.


    In addition to being used by themselves, Central American green coffees are an important part of high-end espresso mixes and filter profiles in the UK and Europe. Because they have a clean finish and a balanced acidity, they are a popular choice among roasters who want to add structure to more experimental profiles or use them as a base for mixes that everyone will enjoy.

    With a history of quality that is ready to sell, partnerships with reputable cooperatives, and consistent praise at cupping events, Central American green coffee continues to set the bar for excellence in the global coffee trade.

  • Why Roasters Love Central American Green Coffee Beans

    Central American green coffee beans are very versatile and can be used with a wide range of brewing methods and amounts of roasting. This is why roasters in Europe and the UK select them. Whether you're making a complex filter roast, a well-balanced espresso, or a reliable blend component, these beans can be roasted in a wide range of ways and always give you clean cup results.


    Central American coffees work well at a range of roast levels because they naturally have the right amount of acidity, sweetness, and structure. Light to medium roasts bring out the delicate floral or citrus notes, making them perfect for hand-crafted drinks and single-origin options. Medium-dark profiles, on the other hand, bring out warming chocolate tones and body, making them great for espresso or milk-based recipes without being too bitter.

    Speciality roasters depend on these beans because they always turn out the same way in the roaster. Central American lots respond consistently to heat, whether they are roasted in a fluid bed or a drum-style machine. This makes them easy to dial in for both small-batch and large-scale roasting.


    Also, these coffees are still very popular with speciality buyers, especially those who want to know where their coffee comes from and how it tastes. They are often used in competitions and seasonal espresso changes because they give roasters the freedom to make offerings from a single origin that are both adventurous and easy to drink.

    Basically, Central American green coffees have the unique ability to be roasted, keep their taste, and appeal to a wide range of customers. This is a triple win for roasters who care about quality and consistency in every batch.

  • Flavor Profile & Cupping Notes

    People love the refined, clean, and expressive cup that Central American green coffee beans make. This makes them a top choice for roasters who want clarity, balance, and wide appeal. These beans usually have a bright to medium acidity, a round body, and a wide range of fruit, floral, and sweet undertones that change depending on where they are grown and how they are processed.

    Typical taste expectations from Central American lots include:

    • Acidity: Often described as crisp, citrusy, or gently sparkling particularly in washed coffees from high altitudes.
    • Body: Ranges from silky and medium-bodied in Costa Rican and Salvadoran coffees to creamier textures in Honduran and Nicaraguan profiles.
    • Flavor notes: Roasters can expect to unlock notes like lemon zest, red apple, cocoa, brown sugar, florals, and dried berries, depending on the terroir and process.
    • Cupping scores: Most specialty-grade lots from this region fall between 83–87 points, with microlots and experimental processes reaching higher scores in top auctions.

    Terrain in Central America, which includes volcanic soil, high mountains, and steady rain, is a big part of the quality of the cup. For example, the Huehuetenango region in Guatemala is known for its bright acidity and floral beauty. In Honduras, Ocotepeque produces cups that are richer, more chocolate-forward, and sweeter overall.


    When it comes to roast growth, these beans do best with light to medium roasts, which keep the flavors of the origin and let the acidity shine. For roasters who want to make espresso, a slightly deeper development brings out the chocolate and body notes without changing the identity of the origin.

    Processing methods also leave a distinct imprint:

    • Washed coffees bring clarity and articulate acidity.
    • Honey and natural processes introduce riper fruit notes, deeper sweetness, and a softer acidity curve.
    • Experimental lots anaerobic or extended fermentation can yield tropical complexity or spice-driven character, highly sought after by competitive roasters.

    With strong structure, consistent cupping scores, and transparent flavor potential, Central American green coffees give roasters the flexibility to build unique roast curves while maintaining quality from batch to batch.

  • Coffee-Growing Regions of Central America

    Central America is home to some of the most revered coffee-producing zones in the world each with its distinct altitude range, microclimate, and soil composition, shaping the final character of the green coffee. Roasters sourcing from this region can rely on regional diversity to craft unique cup profiles that suit a variety of roasting styles and customer preferences.

    Here’s a look at some of the region’s most celebrated growing areas:

    • Guatemala – Huehuetenango, Antigua, Cobán
      Huehuetenango sits at elevations above 1,800 meters, with dry, warm winds that allow high-grown cherries to ripen slowly. Expect refined acidity and layered fruit notes. Antigua, with its volcanic loam soil and cooler climate, produces well-balanced cups marked by cocoa and spice. Cobán, often misty and humid, brings softer fruit and floral characteristics.
    • Honduras – Santa Bárbara, Marcala, Copán
      Santa Bárbara is known for its cloud forests and rich volcanic soil, delivering bold, fruity profiles. Marcala, one of the first regions in Honduras to receive a denomination of origin, grows coffee at altitudes up to 1,650 meters, producing complex, sweet, and full-bodied lots. Copán offers approachable flavor profiles with chocolate and caramel tones, ideal for blends or darker roasts.
    • Costa Rica – Tarrazú, West Valley, Central Valley
      Tarrazú, often referred to as the “Area of the Saints,” is located at 1,200–1,900 meters, producing vibrant, citrus-forward coffees with high clarity. The West Valley, cooled by Pacific breezes, yields lots with delicate florals and stone fruit. Central Valley coffees are balanced and smooth, supported by nutrient-rich volcanic soils and stable rainfall.
    • El Salvador – Santa Ana, Chalatenango, Apaneca-Ilamatepec
      Santa Ana’s fertile volcanic soil supports both traditional and modern cultivars, offering balanced profiles with apple, nut, and vanilla notes. Chalatenango, home to numerous Cup of Excellence winners, features high elevations and cooler microclimates, giving rise to floral, sweet, and high-acidity cups. Apaneca-Ilamatepec is a region prized for honey and natural processing, producing syrupy textures and fruit-forward profiles.
    • Nicaragua – Nueva Segovia, Matagalpa, Jinotega
      Nueva Segovia is gaining recognition for its high-grown microlots and cup complexity, often with bright acidity and tropical fruit tones. Matagalpa offers coffees with creamy body and chocolate undertones, grown at 1,200–1,500 meters. Jinotega, Nicaragua’s largest coffee-growing area, produces dependable lots with soft acidity and nutty-sweet flavor profiles popular among larger-volume roasters.

    Each of these regions brings its own agronomic identity, giving roasters the opportunity to curate green coffee selections that are not only traceable but also distinctly expressive in the cup. Whether targeting complexity, balance, or volume, Central America’s regional offerings provide unmatched sourcing flexibility.

  • Varietals & Species

    The foundation of Central America’s green coffee excellence lies in its diverse portfolio of Arabica varietals, each offering a unique combination of flavor traits, agronomic behavior, and roasting potential. The region’s commitment to quality and experimentation has positioned it as a key source of both traditional and speciality cultivars that appeal strongly to roasters in the UK and Europe.

    The Arabica species, which produces the majority of coffee cultivated in Central America, is renowned for its higher cup quality and reduced caffeine content. Since the emphasis is still firmly on flavorful Arabica varieties that appeal to the niche market, robusta is not grown very often in this area.

    Among the most widely grown varietals are:

    • Bourbon: A legacy varietal prized for its sweetness, balance, and soft acidity. It performs well at high elevations, and roasters appreciate its clean cup and syrupy texture.
    • Typica: Known for its clarity, floral aromatics, and refined acidity, especially in cooler, higher-altitude regions. While lower yielding, it produces elegant profiles ideal for filter roasts.
    • Caturra and Catuai: Mutations and hybrids of Bourbon, these are compact plants that are favored for their productivity and adaptability. Roasters can expect notes of caramel, citrus, and soft chocolate, making them reliable for both single-origin and blend applications.
    • Pacamara: A hybrid of Pacas and Maragogipe, this varietal is known for its large bean size and bold cup character. It can express tropical fruit, florals, and creamy body when processed with care frequently used in high-end microlots.
    • Geisha (or Gesha): Though less common due to its sensitivity and low yields, Geisha has found a foothold in Panama and parts of Costa Rica. It is celebrated for its exotic floral, tea-like, and jasmine notes, commanding premium cupping scores and international demand.
    • SL28 & SL34: Introduced more recently for experimental farming, these varietals are grown in select microlots for their winey acidity, juicy mouthfeel, and dynamic fruit profiles sought after by competitive roasters.

    Producers frequently invest in heirloom and boutique varietals in areas such as Chalatenango, Santa Bárbara, and Nueva Segovia, choosing cultivars primarily for their cup potential rather than yield. When combined with careful processing methods, these coffees frequently get cupping scores of 86 and higher.
    The variety of Central American coffees gives roasters the opportunity to create unique products, ranging from rare microlots with exceptional character to reliable house coffees. The genetic richness of the area guarantees a wide range of cup choices, whether it is for competition sourcing or creating a seasonal lineup.

  • Harvest Seasons & Availability

    Roasters who want to source green coffee effectively must have a thorough understanding of the harvest cycle, particularly when freshness and quality are of the utmost importance. Because of the region's constant tropical climate and latitude, harvest seasons in Central America generally follow a similar schedule, but they do differ significantly by country and altitude.


    High-altitude farms typically harvest later in the Central American primary harvest season, which typically runs from November to March. El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua often start picking in late October, with January and February seeing the most activity. In some areas of Costa Rica, the harvest season usually begins a little earlier, starting in October and lasting through the first quarter of the year.


    Although secondary or fly crop harvests are typically smaller in volume and less frequently exported, they are also permitted on some lower-altitude farms or in particular microclimates, usually between June and August.

    The freshest arrivals of Central American green coffee beans generally reach the UK and European ports by March through July, depending on post-harvest processing times, logistics, and export clearance. This period marks the best window for sourcing fresh-crop lots with optimal moisture content, cup vibrancy, and roast performance.


    While some origins offer year-round availability through well-managed storage and vacuum-sealed packaging, many speciality buyers prefer to purchase seasonally to maintain cup quality and maximize flavor expression. For roasters working with direct trade or microlot selections, early booking during harvest or pre-shipment sample approval is often essential due to high demand and limited volume.


    Planning around these harvest windows allows roasters to align sourcing with production needs, marketing schedules, and freshness expectations ensuring they receive green coffee at its peak condition for roasting and retail.

  • Processing Methods in Central America

    The way that green coffee is processed in Central America is very important for forming the final cup profile. It gives roasters a wide range of flavor experiences to work with. The area is known for its precise and flexible processing methods, which are often tailored to bring out the best in each variety and microclimate. These include standard washed methods and new anaerobic fermentations.


    Most of the time, washed processing is used in Central America. In this method, the cherries are peeled, fermented to get rid of the mucilage, and then the beans are washed and dried. This makes the taste profile clear and refined, often with crisp acidity, floral notes, and high clarity. These lots are popular with roasters because they are consistent and easy to profile. This makes them a good choice for both filter and espresso roasts.

    Processing honey is very popular in places like Costa Rica and El Salvador, where people try drying honey with different amounts of mucilage retention to get yellow, red, and black honey. This method keeps the sweetness while lowering the acidity, which usually results in cups with more body, rounded fruit tones, and a caramel-like richness. The fruitiness and brightness of these coffees are just right for roasters who want to find a middle ground.


    Natural processing isn't as popular as washed processing, but it's becoming more popular in places like Nicaragua and Honduras, especially among growers who focus on small-lot and experimental offerings. With this process, whole cherries are dried on raised beds or patios. The sugars in the cherries soak into the seeds, making the cherries taste juicy and fruity with hints of wine. These coffees are great both when they are single-origin and when they are competing.

    There are more and more farms in El Salvador and Costa Rica that are trying new things and using anaerobic fermentation and other experimental methods. To stop microbes from growing, these ways usually involve sealing cherries or depulped beans in tanks with no oxygen. As a result, the green coffee often has notes of spice, tropical fruit, and layered acidity, which roasters like because it gives their lineup more depth and variety.

    Each country in the region has its own specialty in post-harvest practices:

    • Costa Rica is renowned for its micro-mill revolution, where small producers have adopted honey and anaerobic methods to produce boutique microlots.
    • Guatemala maintains a strong tradition of clean washed processing, particularly in high-altitude zones like Huehuetenango.
    • Honduras and Nicaragua are investing in processing infrastructure and drying innovations, allowing for higher-quality naturals and experimental batches.

    For roasters, this variety in processing means Central America is more than a single flavor source; it’s a toolkit of cup profiles, offering clean washed brightness, syrupy honey texture, or bold natural intensity depending on the need.

  • Notable Varieties of Central America Green Coffee Beans

    Central America is a genetic hub for high-quality Arabica varieties. This means that people who buy green coffee can choose from a wide range of cultivars that have different tastes and roasting possibilities. The region's wide range of varietals supports a wide range of taste profiles, farm resilience, and cup performance. These range from classic heirloom types to modern hybrids and rare specialty strains.

    Among the most widely respected and sought-after varieties in Central America:

    • Bourbon
      Bourbon is still a mainstay in places like El Salvador and Guatemala. It is known for having a beautiful mix of soft acidity and rich sweetness. It tastes like milk chocolate, red fruit, and vanilla a lot of the time, which is why it's a favorite for medium-roast or single-origin espresso blends.
    • SL28
      Originally developed in Kenya, SL28 has been selectively cultivated in parts of Central America for its exceptional complexity and drought resistance. Roasters working with SL28 can expect bright acidity, tropical fruit, and floral top notes, making it a standout for competition or showcase coffees.
    • Caturra
      A natural mutation of Bourbon, Caturra is compact and ideal for smaller farm plots. Its bright yet rounded profile often reveals notes of citrus, caramel, and light cocoa, especially when grown at mid-to-high elevations. Its reliability makes it well-suited for consistent roasting and versatile use.
    • Geisha (Gesha)
      Though it demands meticulous care and thrives only in select microclimates, Geisha is one of the most celebrated varietals globally, particularly from Panama and some parts of Costa Rica. Its cup character is often described as tea-like with jasmine florals, bergamot, and stone fruit, performing best at light roasts. Roasters often seek Geisha for limited releases and high-scoring offerings.
    • Typica
      As one of the oldest Arabica lineages, Typica has a refined, transparent cup that accentuates terroir and processing style. It’s especially valued in high-altitude zones, where it delivers clean acidity, delicate florals, and a smooth finish. Though it has lower yields, the sensory payoff makes it a compelling option for specialty-focused roasters.
    • Pacamara
      A cross between Pacas and Maragogipe, Pacamara is known for its large bean size and bold cup structure. It often produces fruity, creamy, and slightly savory profiles, ideal for experimental processes. Roasters value Pacamara for its distinctiveness and high scoring potential in competitions.
    • Hybrids (e.g., IHCAFE 90, Catuaí, Parainema)
      Many producers in Honduras and Nicaragua rely on hybrids developed for disease resistance and high yield. While these cultivars are designed for agronomic performance, they can also produce clean, sweet, and chocolate-toned cups when grown and processed with care. Their stability and versatility make them excellent candidates for large-scale roasting operations or blend foundations.

    With such a wide range of varietals, roasters can tailor their green coffee to different flavor profiles, roast styles, and customer groups, all while still getting their coffee from a single, traceable area.

  • Usage & Versatility of Central America Green Coffee Beans

    Once roasted, these beans offer exceptional flexibility, making them a valuable asset for roasters aiming to diversify their lineup without compromising on quality or consistency. Central America’s green coffee origins are known for their balanced structure, allowing them to excel in both standalone single-origin releases and blend formulations across a range of roast styles.


    From a roasting potential standpoint, these beans are incredibly cooperative. At light roasts, they tend to reveal crisp acidity, delicate floral layers, and fruit-forward complexity, ideal for filter brewing and seasonal offerings. Medium roasts bring out caramelized sugars, body, and balanced sweetness, making them highly adaptable for espresso and milk-based beverages. Even at darker roast levels, many Central American lots maintain clarity and structure, lending themselves well to more developed profiles without excessive bitterness or a flat finish.

    Central American green coffee can be used for many things and is perfect for roasters who want to make great single-origin expressions or solid blend components. Washed Guatemalans and Costa Ricans, for instance, are often shown as single sources because of their clear acidity and elegant profiles. Meanwhile, chocolate-colored lots from Honduras or Nicaragua are used as blend bases. They give the blend structure and balance so that the brighter parts can stand out.

    In terms of brewing applications once roasted, these coffees adapt seamlessly across formats:

    • Pour-over and Chemex: Their clarity and high-acidity potential make them excellent for slow-brew methods.
    • Espresso: Whether as a solo origin or part of a blend, medium-roast Central Americans provide a smooth, sweet, and layered shot.
    • French Press and AeroPress: Their consistent body and sweetness translate well into immersion brewing.
    • Cold brew and iced methods: Certain honey and natural-processed lots yield a round, syrupy profile with fruit-forward appeal, even in chilled formats.

    This all-around versatility makes Central American green coffee an intelligent choice for roasters who value ease of profiling, broad market appeal, and roast flexibility, all backed by traceable sourcing and regional integrity.

  • Best Brewing Methods for Central America Green Coffee Beans

    Once these beans are roasted, they work great with a wide range of brewing methods. This gives roasters a reliable choice for both everyday drinks and more complex flavors. Central American green coffees work well in both specialty and market settings, with or without brewing equipment, because they are naturally balanced and clear.

    • Espresso
      Central American beans make a smooth, well-balanced espresso with a medium level of acidity and a variety of sweet notes. They are perfect for roasters who like their coffee medium-roasted. Their structure holds up well under stress, giving you clean shots that go well with milk or on their own for clarity.
    • Pour-Over (V60, Chemex)
      The delicate characteristics of washed Central American lots are brought out to light to medium roast when brewed by pour-over, which is ideal for roasters who want to emphasize citrus-driven acidity or floral aromatics. Cups from high-grown origins, such as Huehuetenango or Tarrazú, are known for their crispness, articulateness, and transparent taste delineation.
    • French Press
      When roasted to bring out a bit more body, these beans offer a satisfying, full-bodied cup in immersion brews. Chocolate, spice, and nutty undertones become more pronounced, creating a cozy and consistent profile ideal for daily drinkers.
    • Cold Brew
      Coffees from Central America, whether they are roasted to a medium-dark shade or processed with honey, make for mild, sugary cold brews that are easy on the palate. They are ideal for chilled presentations due to their natural sweetness and mild complexity.
    • AeroPress
      Because it lets you dynamically explore roast depth and origin expression, the AeroPress is a favorite among experimental brewers. Central American beans provide a great deal of diversity in this regard, offering a crisp, tea-like taste at light roast or a rounder, more developed character at medium roast.

    These brewing options show how flexible the area is, which gives roasters faith that once their green coffee is roasted, it will work in a variety of ways without losing quality or flavor.

  • Quality Standards for Green Coffee Beans in Central AmericaQuality Standards for Green Coffee Beans in Central America

    The green coffee industry in Central America is shaped by a strong culture of quality control and government oversight, which is supported by both old and new systems.

    • Grading & Classification Systems
      In places like Guatemala and El Salvador, labels based on elevation, like Strictly Hard Bean (SHB) or Strictly High Grown (SHG), show altitude and, by extension, bean density. Beans that grow at higher levels tend to be denser, which is preferred because they make better coffee.
    • Cooperative & Government Oversight
      Standards pertaining to harvest management, export preparation, and traceability are enforced by national coffee institutes or councils in a number of nations, including IHCAFE in Honduras and ICAFE in Costa Rica. These groups ensure uniformity from farm to export by supervising milling procedures, moisture content, and defect tolerance levels.
    • Certifications and Traceability Efforts
      A large number of manufacturers are involved with independent certification programs, such as the Rainforest Alliance, Organic Trade, or Fair Trade. Not only do they improve things, but they also guarantee things for the environment and the workers. The use of farm-specific sourcing and traceable micro-lots has also been on the rise, particularly among specialist importers that value complete transparency and distinctive profiles.
    • Direct Trade and Quality Control Practices
      The rise of roaster-producer partnerships has spurred more direct trade sourcing, which in turn has encouraged more fair pricing structures and steady quality improvements. Modern, innovative producers that strive for specialty-grade designation often use standard procedures such as double fermentation, shade drying, and moisture monitoring.

    Central America is a great source for commercial and specialty green coffee because of these interconnected systems, which consistently provide high-scoring beans.

    Packaging & Sizing Options

    Green coffee from Central America is commonly available in a variety of bulk and small-batch formats, catering to the needs of both professional and home roasting environments.

    • Commercial Bulk Options
      Roasteries that buy in bulk should expect package sizes of 20Kg and 30Kg sacks, which are commonly lined with GrainPro or Ecotact bags to keep the beans fresh and wet while they are being shipped. For business orders and LCL pallet shipments, these sizes are the norm in the business world.
    • Medium to Small Batch Sizes
      You can now buy beans in 5Kg and 10Kg bags for micro-roasters, cafes, or tasting reasons. These bags are the right size for easy handling and storage.
    • Retail & Home Roaster-Friendly Sizes
      More 0.5Kg, 1Kg, and 2Kg options are now available, especially through e-commerce sites, as the number of people who want to roast coffee at home grows. Often, these smaller pieces come in nitrogen-flushed packaging that can be resealed to keep the quality until they are roasted.

    Whether you're a small-batch roaster or a large-scale buyer, Central American green coffee exports provide versatile packaging alternatives to meet your demands.

  • Sourcing & Traceability

    Our approach to sourcing Central American green coffee beans is rooted in long-standing relationships, ethical transparency, and a commitment to sustainable value chains.

    • Direct Farm & Cooperative Engagement
      We partner directly with smallholder farmers, family-owned estates, and regional cooperatives across Central American countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. These relationships are built on years of collaboration, ensuring consistent quality and mutual trust. Many of our sourcing partners are part of established producer associations that emphasize ecological responsibility and fair labor standards.
    • Ethical & Transparent Sourcing Practices
      We prioritize fully traceable lots, meaning every bag of green coffee we offer can be traced back to its origin, whether that’s a single farm, community washing station, or regional blend. Our sourcing contracts are structured to support producers through above-market pricing, incentivizing quality improvements while sustaining livelihoods.
    • Certifications & Shared Values
      Many of our offerings are backed by organic, Rainforest Alliance, and Fair Trade certifications, depending on the farm or cooperative involved. These certifications help verify compliance with sustainable agricultural practices and ethical labor conditions, aligning with our mission to offer only responsibly grown coffees.
    • On-the-Ground Presence
      With sourcing partners and quality teams on the ground, we maintain real-time feedback loops with producers during the harvest and post-harvest periods. This involvement allows us to identify micro-lots with standout potential and work collaboratively with farmers to tailor fermentation, drying, and milling techniques that meet roaster expectations.

    This level of traceability and sourcing integrity ensures that every Central American green coffee we offer is not only quality-focused, but also ethically and transparently produced.

  • Buy 100% High-Quality Central American Green Coffee Beans

    Unlock the vibrant essence of Central America with our premium selection of unroasted green coffee beans. Whether you're a home roaster looking for clean, complex flavors or a commercial buyer sourcing top-tier lots, our Central American offerings deliver exceptional freshness, diverse profiles, and full traceability from farm to bag.

    Explore a curated range of varietals and processing methods from acclaimed regions across Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama, and Nicaragua. Every batch is harvested at peak ripeness, meticulously handled, and shipped under optimal conditions to preserve its raw integrity.

    Farm-direct transparency
    Multiple origin options
    Fresh-crop arrivals year-round
    Ideal for single-origin roasting and blends

    Browse our collection today and experience why Central American green coffee beans are favored by specialty roasters worldwide.

  • What makes Central American green coffee beans a good choice for speciality coffee?

    These beans offer a consistent combination of traceability, clean flavors, and high elevation growing conditions, ideal for both single-origin features and blending components. Their adaptability to different roast levels and brewing styles makes them a go-to for speciality roasters seeking quality, transparency, and flavor depth.

  • Costa Rican green coffee beans – Tarrazú region

    Costa Rica

    Innovative and balanced, Costa Rican coffees offer clean profiles, rich sweetness, and processing diversity.

  • Guatemala Green Coffee Beans

    Guatemala Green Coffee Beans

    From rich chocolate to bright citrus, Guatemala’s high-altitude coffees offer depth, sweetness, and diversity.

  • South American Green Coffee Beans

    South American Green Coffee Beans

    Smooth chocolate, bright citrus, and bold fruit – a region defined by variety, altitude, and innovation.

  • African Green Coffee Beans

    African Green Coffee Beans

    Vibrant, complex coffees with wine-like sweetness and bright acidity – Africa at its most distinctive.

  • Asia Green Coffee Beans

    Asia Green Coffee Beans

    Earthy, rich, and distinctive – coffees from Asia offer bold flavours and a wide range of profiles.

  • Mexico Green Coffee Beans

    Mexico Green Coffee Beans

    Mexican coffees with light body, bright acidity, and smooth chocolate and nutty flavour notes.

Your questions, answered

What is the Green Coffee Collective?

We’re a community of coffee producers and sourcing experts, all working together to make green coffee easy to access—whether you’re a hobby roaster at home or a professional roasting hundreds of tonnes a year. Our platform is designed to simplify buying green coffee, just like any other online shopping experience. No fuss, just great coffee at your fingertips.

Are your coffees ethically and sustainably sourced?

Absolutely! We source all our coffees either directly from producers or through trusted sourcing partners who are just as committed to ethical practices as we are. We take the time to ensure the people behind the coffee are treated fairly. If you want to learn more, you can dive into our values.

How can I get in touch with your team?

We love hearing from our customers. If you’ve got a question or need any help, just shoot us an email at hello@greencoffeecollective.com, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you. We’re always here to make sure you’re taken care of!

What sizes or quantities can I order?

We offer coffee starting from as little as 0.5kg (1 lb) all the way up to full sacks. If you’re looking for larger quantities than what’s listed on our site, just get in touch! We’d be happy to help you organise and place a custom order. We're here to make sure you get exactly what you need.

Do you offer samples or trial batches before committing to larger orders?

Yes, we offer samples for most of our coffees. If you need a larger sample than what’s typically available, we recommend trying one of the smaller quantity options listed on our site. That way, you can test the coffee before committing to a larger order.

What are the characteristics of Central American green coffee beans?

Central American green coffee beans are prized for their balance of sweetness, acidity, and clarity. Depending on the origin and altitude, they can range from bright citrusy cups to chocolate-toned, full-bodied profiles. These beans often deliver clean, nuanced flavors, making them a staple in many specialty coffee roasters’ offerings.

What are some popular Central American coffee regions?

Some of the most celebrated regions include Antigua (Guatemala), Marcala (Honduras), Boquete (Panama), Nueva Segovia (Nicaragua), and Tarrazu (Costa Rica). These areas are known for their high elevations, ideal microclimates, and longstanding farming traditions that contribute to cup excellence.

Which Central American country has the best coffee beans?

There’s no singular “best” as it depends on roast preference and flavor goals. However, Panama’s Geisha, Guatemalan Huehuetenango, and Costa Rica’s West Valley are globally renowned for producing top-tier specialty-grade coffees with distinct characteristics. Each country offers something unique to roasters and enthusiasts.

When did green coffee beans come to Central America?

Coffee was introduced to Central America in the 18th century, with initial plantings in the Caribbean and coastal areas. By the 19th century, coffee cultivation had expanded across the region’s highlands, quickly becoming a major agricultural export and cultural mainstay.

Do Central American green coffee beans require a specific grinder type?

As with all green beans, a dedicated green coffee grinder (typically industrial or commercial-grade) is ideal, especially for sample roasting. Once roasted, a burr grinder is preferred to preserve grind consistency and unlock the delicate flavor notes typical of Central American coffees.

Are Central American green coffee beans suitable for espresso?

Yes, Once roasted, many Central American beans make excellent espresso, especially those with rich chocolate, caramel, or nutty profiles. They’re also widely used in espresso blends to add brightness, structure, or a smooth finish.

What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta in Central American coffee?

Nearly all specialty-grade Central American coffee is Arabica, known for its superior flavor complexity, lower bitterness, and smoother mouthfeel. Robusta is extremely rare in this region and mostly limited to low-altitude commercial farming.

What are the flavor profiles of different Central American coffee regions?

  • Guatemala: Deep chocolate, berry, and bright citrus notes.
  • Honduras: Balanced, creamy body with toffee and mild fruit tones.
  • Costa Rica: Crisp acidity, tropical fruit, and floral qualities.
  • Nicaragua: Sweet, nutty, with subtle stone fruit.
  • Panama: Especially Geisha, offers jasmine, bergamot, and tea-like delicacy.

Why do Central American coffee beans have a higher price than beans from other regions?

Premium Central American beans command higher prices due to elevation, microclimate advantages, small-lot farming, and meticulous post-harvest practices like washed and honey processing. Certifications and sustainable farming also add to the overall cost, but ensure superior cup quality and traceability.