Today, traveling implies something more than just a change of scenery. For those seeking authentic experiences, contact with nature, and a deep connection with local traditions, Riviera Nayarit reveals itself as a destination to be savored slowly. Here, coffee, tobacco, and rural tourism interweave to offer a sensory journey that invites you to know the state through its agricultural, cultural, and human roots.
One of the great protagonists of this experience is the Coffee and Tobacco Route, an invitation to discover the flavors of the state of Nayarit from their very origin. This journey unfolds primarily in the municipalities of Xalisco and the Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) of Compostela—two territories where agricultural history is transformed into gastronomic, artisanal, and nature-based experiences.
Xalisco, recognized as the state’s leading coffee producer, marks the beginning of this trip. A visit to a coffee plantation allows one to understand the process behind every bean, with special attention to the “beneficio seco” (dry milling) technique, which is fundamental for separating the coffee seeds. It is a direct encounter with field work and knowledge passed down through oral tradition, enriching every subsequent sip.
The journey continues in Compostela, a destination with roughly 150 years of coffee-growing history, originally spurred by French settlers. Its tranquil atmosphere and cultural legacy make this Magic Town a key point on the route. Walking along the well-known Calle del Café (Coffee Street) is an opportunity to engage with local producers and learn about projects centered around the bean. Here, experts explain every stage of the process—from harvest to roasting—and guide visitors through an introduction to coffee cupping, teaching them to recognize the fruity and floral notes that distinguish the region’s coffee.
The experience is rounded out with outdoor activities that connect the traveler with the natural environment. Hiking through mountain coffee plantations offers privileged views of the landscape and moments of contemplation in a serene setting. As an essential part of this route, coffee then gives way to tobacco—another of the area’s emblematic products—known locally as the “from leaf to cigar” process.
Delving into the world of tobacco also means learning its history and actively participating in the crafting of a handmade cigar, guided by expert hands who have mastered this trade.
To close the experience, visitors can explore the Historic Center of Compostela on foot, discovering the architectural beauty and the daily life of this unique corner of Riviera Nayarit.
