Make chocolate to take home Oaxacan style

If you’re curious about how chocolate evolves from humble cacao beans into a delicious treat, this Oaxaca workshop offers a uniquely hands-on look. It’s a chance to learn about the history, processes, and flavors of Mexican cocoa, all while crafting your own chocolates to take home. With a reputation for passionate guides and authentic experiences, this class is perfect for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

We love how the workshop combines tradition and sustainability—the three-generation family behind it is eager to share their secrets. Plus, the chance to create and sample your own chocolates adds a memorable, personal touch. On the flip side, if you’re expecting a leisurely sightseeing tour, this is more of a craft class with a focus on hands-on participation. It’s best suited for those who want a practical, flavorful experience rather than just looking at sights.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Crafted in a family-run workshop with generational knowledge
• Hands-On Learning: Step-by-step guidance from expert chocolatiers
• Takeaway Treats: Participants leave with 150 grams of their own chocolates
• Inaccessible to Some: Limited to small groups of 6—perfect for personalized attention
• Valuable for Food Lovers: Combines history, technique, and tasting in one session
• Great Value: For $60, you get a comprehensive, memorable experience that includes tasting and your own chocolates to enjoy later

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Oaxacan Chocolate

This workshop is based in Oaxaca, a region famous for its rich tradition of chocolate making. You’ll start your journey at Teolab, a charming space marked by a big dog statue outside and a sign that reads FILOTEO. The setting immediately feels inviting—bright, cozy, and full of the aroma of cacao. Here, a knowledgeable guide will welcome you, offering a brief introduction to the fascinating world of Mexican cacao.

This initial segment is invaluable because it sets the context for everything that follows. We loved the way the guide shared stories about the history and diversity of chocolate types, giving us a richer appreciation of what we’re about to create. The emphasis on storytelling and tradition makes this more than just a craft class—it’s a cultural experience.

You’ll learn about the importance of sustainability and how local producers preserve old methods, which adds depth to the tasting and making process. The background information helps you understand why Mexican chocolate holds such a special place globally, making your hands-on activity feel connected to something bigger than just sweets.

The Workshop: Making Chocolate Step-by-Step

Once introduced, the real fun begins. Guided by a master chocolatier—who’s clearly passionate and eager to share—each participant gets to pick ingredients, grind cacao, and mold their chocolates. The process is designed to be accessible, with clear instructions and a friendly vibe.

The workshop is limited to just six participants, which ensures plenty of personal attention. The use of aprons, grinders, stoves, and molds means you’ll get a true feel for traditional chocolate-making techniques. We particularly enjoyed the part where we could weave flavors—adding spices or other local ingredients—making each piece uniquely ours.

Throughout the process, the guide shares generational secrets, revealing how recipes and practices have been passed down. This connection to tradition is palpable and makes each bite of your finished chocolate taste even more meaningful. The guide’s enthusiasm is contagious, and his storytelling about his family’s legacy adds a personal touch that elevates the experience.

Tasting and Creating Your Own Masterpieces

After the chocolates are molded, it’s time for the most anticipated moment: tasting. You’ll sample your own creations, savoring the rich flavors and smooth textures. The enjoyment of tasting your own work is surprisingly satisfying and makes the whole experience more rewarding.

As part of the package, you’ll take home 150 grams of your handmade chocolates. This is a generous amount, ideal for sharing with friends and family or keeping as a sweet souvenir. The chocolates you craft are not only delicious but also a tangible memory of your time in Oaxaca.

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the chocolates and the knowledgeable guides. One traveler from the U.S. called the instructor “charming, informative, and fun,” and many note that the experience exceeded expectations for value and authenticity.

What’s Included and Practical Details

For $60 per person, the workshop provides a lot of value. Included are chocolates or tea upon arrival—you can also request coffee—plus bottled water (which is eco-friendly, as plastic bottles are avoided). You’ll also enjoy snacks of chocolates crafted on-site, giving you an extra taste of Oaxaca’s sweet traditions.

All the necessary tools—aprons, grinders, stoves, molds—are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything special. The class lasts about 2.5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, making it an ideal activity to start your day. The small group setting ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Accessibility is also a plus, with wheelchair and stroller access, making it suitable for a range of travelers. The workshop is conducted in English and Spanish, accommodating international visitors comfortably.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience Location and Atmosphere

The workshop takes place at Teolab, a dedicated space for creative workshops and culinary experiences. The atmosphere is casual yet inspiring, with a focus on learning and sharing. The presence of generational secrets and family stories** makes this feel like a true cultural exchange rather than just a class.

Travelers have praised the staff’s attentiveness, with one reviewer noting that “Tomás was so inspiring with his passion for the process,” and others mention the “fun” and “knowledgeable” nature of the guide. The setting, combined with the authentic approach, makes this workshop stand out among typical tourist activities.

The Value of This Experience

At $60, this workshop offers excellent value—you’re not just getting a quick demonstration but a comprehensive experience that spans history, technique, and tasting. The chance to create something personal and take it home makes it especially worthwhile.

Compared to other experiences, this class emphasizes authenticity and craftsmanship. The ability to craft your own chocolates with guidance from a passionate family-run business turns what could be a simple activity into a meaningful souvenir.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This workshop is ideal for foodies, culture lovers, and families looking for a hands-on activity. It’s perfect for those wanting a deeper understanding of Mexican cacao and the chance to create edible memories. Since the group size is limited, it’s also suited to travelers who prefer more personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

However, if you’re seeking a quick sightseeing tour or don’t enjoy hands-on activities, this might not be your best choice. It’s a slow, engaging journey into the process of chocolate making—a true treat for those who love to learn and taste.

Final Thoughts

This Oaxaca chocolate workshop offers a rare blend of learning, creating, and tasting. It’s engaging and authentic, highlighting the skills and stories passed down through generations. For $60, you gain not only a batch of your own chocolates but also a deepened appreciation for Oaxacan tradition and craftsmanship.

Travelers who value authentic cultural experiences and enjoy culinary crafts will find this well worth their time. It’s especially suitable for those who want a fun, memorable way to connect with local traditions while taking home a delicious souvenir.

If you’re in Oaxaca and want to add a personal, flavorful touch to your trip, this workshop is a sweet choice that will leave you smiling—and maybe a little sticky—long after your visit.

FAQ Section

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, especially since babies are allowed to sit on an adult’s lap, and the activity is engaging for all ages. Just keep in mind the duration and the use of small tools.

Can I request different drinks?
The workshop includes chocolate or tea upon arrival, and you can request coffee or tea if desired. Other beverages are not specified, but the focus is on local flavors.

How accessible is the location?
The workshop is accessible for people in wheelchairs and baby strollers, with accommodations made for transport and surfaces. Guide animals are also allowed.

What is the group size?
Participation is limited to 6 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience and plenty of interaction with the guide.

How long does the workshop last?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, usually scheduled in the morning.

What’s the price?
It costs $60 per person, which offers good value considering the hands-on crafting, tasting, and take-home chocolates.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this activity suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the workshop is conducted in English and Spanish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What should I bring or prepare?
Nothing special is needed—just your enthusiasm! All tools and ingredients are provided, and you’ll be guided through each step.

This Oaxaca chocolate workshop strikes a lovely balance—it’s educational, fun, and offers a tangible souvenir of your trip. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture seeker, or just curious about the art of chocolate-making, this experience is sure to add a sweet layer to your Oaxaca adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby