Lacy white waterfalls cascade from the western slopes of the Andes into the tropical selva (Amazon Basin) between the Andes and the Pacific coast. Steeped in ancient Mayan history and culture, this land is one of brilliant red, green, and turquoise birds, verdant green rainforest and steep, rich mountainsides. The valleys of the Chanchamayo region east of Lima produce approximately 40% of the country's coffee.
Here the elevations are high, and coffee is mostly shade-grown. The cooler temperatures result in slower growth and ripening, which yields denser, more flavorful beans. Most coffee growers in the Chanchamayo region are of Mayan descent. Many belong to grower cooperative organizations which give them access to training, processing mills, and certifications. Other producers have their own on-site micro-mills. Much of the coffee is organically grown, and producers partner together to protect the wildlife and biodiversity in their valleys and mountains.