Bogotá: Experience of a Coffee Competition

Imagine standing in a cozy Bogotá coffee shop, yourself transformed into a coffee judge for a few hours, tasting and evaluating some of the best brews Colombia has to offer. For $120 per person, this 2.5-hour guided experience takes you through the behind-the-scenes world of coffee competitions, offering a fascinating blend of education and sensory delight. Led by a certified World Competition Judge, you’ll participate in a simulated Brewers Cup presentation, tasting a world-awarded coffee and learning the finer points of grading and presentation.

What we find especially appealing about this experience is its hands-on approach. You’re not just observing; you’re actively involved in the judging process — a rare chance to see how professionals evaluate coffee. Plus, the fact that you receive a certificate of participation and gifts makes it feel like a true achievement rather than just another tour.

One possible consideration, however, is that the experience is conducted in Spanish, which could be a barrier if you’re not fluent. But don’t let that deter you if you’re eager to learn; the practical demonstrations and tasting are straightforward and engaging. This experience is perfect for coffee lovers, aspiring baristas, or anyone curious about what makes a truly excellent cup of coffee and how experts identify its qualities.

If you’re interested in authentic, educational, and fun coffee experiences in Bogotá, this tour offers a rare insight into the art and science of coffee tasting while providing a memorable, sensory adventure.

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Key Points

Authentic Judging Experience: Participate in a simulation training led by a Certified World Competition Judge.
Tasting of Top-Quality Coffee: Sample an award-winning coffee often recognized in international competitions.
Hands-On Learning: Learn the protocol for grading coffee and observe a real barista presentation.
Certificate & Gifts: Receive a certificate of participation along with a coffee taster’s wheel miniature and sample.
Small Group Setting: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
Convenient and Flexible: Includes skip-the-line access, flexible cancellation, and the option to reserve now, pay later.

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A Detailed Look at What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Meeting

Your journey begins at Casa Fahrenheit / Tourist Coffee, a cozy hub known for its specialty coffee. The experience is designed to be intimate, with a small group of up to four people, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized feedback. The activity concludes back at the same meeting point, streamlining logistics.

The Judging Workshop

Once seated, you’ll meet your instructor — a Spanish-speaking expert who is a Certified World Competition Judge. Their role is to guide you through the process of evaluating coffee based on sensory analysis, including aroma, flavor, body, and acidity. The focus isn’t just on tasting but understanding how professional judges score a cup.

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Simulation with a Barista Presentation

The highlight of the tour is witnessing a real barista presenting a brew similar to one you’ll see in international competitions like the Brewers Cup. You’ll evaluate service, presentation, and barista skills alongside two other participants, mimicking a competition environment. This part is both educational and entertaining, offering a behind-the-scenes look at competition standards.

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Tasting and Evaluation

Next, you’ll taste a world-awarded coffee, likely one of the best in international competitions, which accentuates the aromatic and smooth qualities that coffee professionals look for. As one traveler commented, “The coffee tasting was impressive: I have never had such an aromatic and smooth coffee.”

Learning the Protocol

You’ll learn the simple protocol used to grade coffee, helping you understand what professionals look for and how they distinguish among different brews. Receiving a miniature coffee taster’s wheel adds a practical tool to help you analyze coffee even after your trip.

Final Touches

Participants receive a certificate of participation, which is a nice reminder of the skills gained and the fun of tasting at a professional level. The tour also includes gifts like a sample of coffee to take home, making it a tangible souvenir of your Colombian coffee adventure.

Why This Experience Offers Excellent Value

At $120, you might wonder if it’s worth it. When you consider the quality of guidance, the hands-on experience, and the exclusive opportunity to judge a real competition in a relaxed environment, it’s a solid investment in your coffee knowledge. Plus, tasting award-winning coffee is a rare treat that many travelers might not get to experience otherwise.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it easier to learn and ask questions. The skip-the-line feature also saves time, which is valuable in a busy itinerary.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer described it as “Three unforgettable hours,” highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the helpful information on brewing top-quality coffee at home. The tasting was described as “impressive,” with particular praise for the aroma and smoothness of the coffee.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for coffee enthusiasts, foodies, or those who want a deeper understanding of what makes a great cup of coffee. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy interactive learning rather than passive sightseeing. Keep in mind, the activity is conducted in Spanish, so some language skills or a translator could be helpful.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for a unique, engaging activity that combines education, sensory enjoyment, and cultural insight into Colombia’s world-famous coffee industry. However, if you prefer a more extensive tour of Bogotá’s sights or don’t care about coffee tasting, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This Bogotá coffee judging experience offers a rare opportunity to peer behind the curtain of professional coffee competitions. It’s especially valuable for those wanting to expand their coffee palate and learn how experts evaluate brews. With knowledgeable guides, personalized attention, and the chance to taste award-winning coffee, it’s a worthwhile addition to any coffee lover’s itinerary.

The small group setting and hands-on approach make it accessible and engaging, ensuring that you leave with new skills and a better appreciation for the craft of coffee making. Whether you’re a budding barista, a seasoned coffee enthusiast, or simply curious about how coffee is judged at the highest levels, this experience provides a fun, authentic, and educational journey into Colombia’s rich coffee culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
The activity is conducted in Spanish, so some proficiency or translation assistance may be helpful. The demonstrations and tasting are straightforward and engaging, even if language isn’t perfect.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive activity within a busy travel schedule.

What is included in the price?
You get to participate in the tasting and judging, a certificate of participation, a coffee taster’s wheel miniature, and a sample of coffee to take home.

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

Is the activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that most travelers can participate comfortably.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended. Since the activity involves tasting coffee, you might want to bring a small bottle of water for palate cleansing, though unlimited water is provided.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under age 10, 18, or babies under 1 year, primarily due to the sensory focus and the nature of the tasting.

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a fun, cultural activity, this Bogotá experience offers a distinctive taste of Colombia’s renowned coffee scene. It’s a small but memorable slice of Colombian hospitality and craft, sure to leave you with new appreciation and perhaps even a new hobby—coffee tasting.