Villa Vanilla Spice Farm
Villa Vanilla is a family run farm that was founded in 1987 by Henry Karczynski.
Born in Germany and raised in urban Chicago, Illinois, Henry studied business and worked in commerce for several years before finding his true vocation in life. It was until 1975, when he joined the Peace Corps as a volunteer that he got involved in agricultural development. He worked as a long term project manager for several Non- Government Organizations (NGO) and as a short term consultant in a half a dozen countries in Central America and the Caribbean.
About the Tour
Our tour is completely hands-on and will satisfy the curiosity of tourgoers of all ages. You will use all of your senses to navigate the farm while identifying an interesting variety of spices such as our beloved vanilla, true ceylon cinnamon, cacao, black pepper, allspice, turmeric and variety of exotic fruits and medicinal plants.
What People Say
This was a delightful tour with an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, Joyce. I feel it is a must-do if you are visiting the Manuel Antonio area. I learned so much about the process of cultivating vanilla, cacao and Ceylon cinnamon while in this magical jungle environment. Hats off to Kris who manages the business. So excited to then get to try the delicious ice creams, hot chocolate, chocolates, and cookies at the extraordinary overlook location! This is a unique opportunity tour and was definitely a highlight of my first trip to Costa Rica!
Written December 18, 2024
Incredible tour! Never thought there was so much to learn about spices. Loved the chocolate too
Written Decmber 18, 2024
Tour was really interesting. The place is beautiful. Our guide was very knowledgeable and we enjoyed trying the different samples.
Written December 7, 2024
Joyce was amazing. Knowledgeable. Friendly. Perfect guide. My husband and I thought it was one of the best tours we have taken here and we have done many. Learned so much about plants and spices. Had no clue vanilla was so labor intensive. Bought Christmas gifts at the shop. And, the treats mid way, DELICIOUS!!!
Written November 29, 2024
Probably the most beautiful and welcoming tour we have had the pleasure of having in years! The trails and greenhouses are shaded and beautiful. We look forward to coming back.
Written November 20, 2024
We are so glad to decided to go on this tour. It was the perfect length for our 6 year old. And the chocolate and ice cream break was a nice touch. Lots of good stuff to to buy after the tour (chocolate, vanilla, spices, etc)
Written November 30, 2024
Fun, informative and beautiful
We loved this tour, especially because it gave us something to do on a rainy day! Joyce was our guide and she was great. The property is stunning and the tour is fun. They even give your amazing treats made with their organic spices. We also saw toucans! Highly recommend.
Written November 13, 2024
Definitely worth coming to!
Our family had a great time on the Villa Vanilla tour! The guide was knowledgeable and engaging and the farm itself is beautiful. And of course the treats included with the tour were delicious! We learned so much about vanilla, cocoa, and other spices!
Written October 16, 2024
Great for those who like to know things, plant person, foodie
A last minute decision but a great one. The guide was so informative. If you are a plant person (hubby and I) or a foodie (me) – you will love this one. I like to know things so yes, great for that too. Near the end we got to sample a bit at a outdoor raised site with a fabulous view. And yes, bought their stuff in the gift shop even though they have an online site. 🙂
Written October 13, 2024
You have to go here!
Villa Vanilla is an incredible farm / conservation and a must see on your trip. It is perfect for all ages, families, couples, etc. Joyce was our tour guide and she was very knowledgeable, informative and answered every question you can think of – she also speaks English very very well. This farm is breath taking and they take very good care of their trees and fruits; you can tell a lot of hard work and passion goes into it. It was so interesting and I learned many things I didn’t know before, They also have a small shop where you can purchase their organic products and have lattes/beverages. I recommend the vanilla iced latte! Additionally, during the tour you stop in a tree house over look with amazing views and with the tour comes 3 ice creams made with vanilla and spices and a hot cocoa made with their own cacao plant. They also give you a welcome drink with hibiscus and all spice that tastes like the typical Fall flavors we love in the US. Thank you for having us!
Written September 21, 2024
