Oaxaca: Create Your Own Chocolate Bars

If you’re heading to Oaxaca and have a sweet tooth or an interest in food crafts, this workshop is a delightful way to get up close and personal with Mexican cacao. While I haven’t personally taken this class, the detailed descriptions and glowing reviews make it clear that this experience offers a memorable mix of education, creativity, and tasty rewards. Perfect for those curious about the chocolate-making process or eager to craft a personalized treat, this activity breaks down complex techniques into manageable steps.

Two things stand out about this experience: first, its emphasis on hands-on practice with all necessary equipment included—meaning you’ll truly get your hands dirty and learn by doing. Second, the focus on exploring the origins and varieties of cocoa adds a layer of cultural understanding that enriches the craft.

A possible consideration? The workshop lasts just three hours, so those wanting a deep dive into chocolate production might find it a bit brief. But for most, this is ample time to create a unique edible souvenir. The experience is ideal for adventurous travelers, food lovers, and families with children over 12 who want an engaging, authentic activity in Oaxaca.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: Create and shape your own chocolate bar with guided instruction.
• Educational component: Learn about cocoa origins, varieties, and traditional flavors.
• All equipment provided: No need to bring anything besides comfortable shoes and curiosity.
• Flexible design: You can shape and flavor your chocolate as you like.
• Take-home treat: Your custom chocolate comes packaged, ready to enjoy or gift.
• Small group size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What the Workshop Entails

This 3-hour session offers an engaging introduction to the world of cocoa, perfect for anyone interested in how raw beans turn into the chocolate we love. The workshop begins with a brief overview of the origins and varieties of cocoa—an eye-opener that helps participants appreciate the diversity of flavors and textures that different beans can offer.

You’ll then move on to the transformation process—from roasted beans to the smooth chocolate mixture. No prior experience is necessary, which makes this accessible for beginners. The instructor will walk you through each step, especially focusing on tempering, a crucial process that ensures your chocolate will have the right shine and texture once set. It’s a technical skill but, with guidance, manageable and surprisingly satisfying when your bar comes together.

The Creative Part

Once your chocolate is tempered and ready, you’ll be invited to shape and flavor your bar. This is where your creativity gets to shine. The workshop provides a variety of flavors and tools, so you can add nuts, spices, or other ingredients—whatever your taste buds crave. The instructor encourages experimentation, and many reviews highlight how fun it is to see your personalized design come to life.

After shaping your masterpiece, you’ll receive packaging to take your creation home. This thoughtful touch makes your chocolate not just a souvenir, but a gift or personal treat to enjoy later.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $98 per person includes everything you need: an introduction to cocoa, exploration of its origins, all equipment for tempering, and your own personalized chocolate bar. You also get packaging—a small but appreciated detail. An optional English translator is available for an extra fee if language is a barrier.

Not included? You may want to bring your own snacks and water for before or after, and comfortable clothes and shoes are a must since you’ll be working with melted chocolate and possibly getting a little messy.

More Great Tours Nearby

Group Size and Atmosphere

The workshop is designed for small groups—maximum of 6 participants—which guarantees a more intimate, relaxed environment. Participants have reported that the instructor is engaging and guiding, which makes the experience accessible even for first-timers.

Location and Accessibility

Meeting at 5 de Mayo 210 in Oaxaca’s Centro district, the location is central and easy to find. The workshop generally takes place in the morning, fitting nicely into a day of sightseeing or culinary exploration.

Practical Tips

Since the workshop is suitable for ages 12 and above, families with older kids might find it an especially fun activity. Just remember that children under 12 are not eligible, likely due to the nature of handling hot materials and the concentration required for shaping chocolate.

Why This Experience Is Worth Considering

This workshop offers more than just a chance to make chocolate; it’s an educational journey that deepens your appreciation for Oaxaca’s renowned cacao heritage. The small group setting fosters personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and truly understand the craft. For food lovers and creative souls alike, the opportunity to customize your own bar is a highlight—both fun and satisfying.

The value of this experience lies in the combination of learning a traditional process and walking away with a tangible, edible keepsake. Compared to many standard tours, the $98 fee covers all materials, instruction, and packaging—a fair deal considering the personalized nature of the activity.

While it’s a short session, the focus on quality instruction and hands-on practice ensures you won’t just watch but participate. If you’re someone who enjoys making things yourself or wants an authentic, culturally rich experience beyond simply tasting chocolate, this workshop ticks many boxes.

Who Would Love This

Travelers interested in food history, hands-on activities, or chocolate aficionados will find this workshop enriching. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a small, intimate setting and want to learn techniques they can replicate at home. Families with kids over 12 will appreciate the creative aspect, and those seeking a memorable souvenir will value their custom chocolate bar.

Who Might Want to Skip It

If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a quick taste instead of a craft, this may not be ideal. Also, if you’re very experienced in chocolate making, the workshop might feel too basic. But for most, it’s a balanced and engaging experience that offers both education and craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior experience needed?
No, this workshop is designed for beginners and does not require any previous knowledge of chocolate making.

What is included in the $98 price?
You get an introduction to cocoa, exploration of its origins and varieties, all equipment for tempering, your own chocolate bar, and packaging to take it home.

Can I participate if I don’t speak English?
Yes, the instructor speaks both Spanish and English. An English translator is available for an additional fee, ensuring you don’t miss out on any details.

How long is the workshop?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, usually in the morning, making it easy to fit into your travel day.

Are children under 12 allowed?
No, this activity is suitable for ages 12 and above.

Where do I meet for the workshop?
At 5 de Mayo 210 in Oaxaca’s Centro district, a convenient and central location.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended since you’ll be working with melted chocolate. Bringing snacks and water is also suggested.

Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with older children who enjoy hands-on activities and creative projects.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

The Create Your Own Chocolate Bars workshop in Oaxaca offers a unique blend of cultural insight, culinary skill, and creative fun. You don’t just watch or taste—you participate and create, which makes for a memorable souvenir and a new appreciation for Mexican cacao.

For curious travelers, foodies, or families seeking a meaningful activity, this experience provides excellent value—an authentic, hands-on adventure that’s easy to fit into a day of exploring Oaxaca. The small group size and inclusive approach mean you’ll receive personal attention, and you’ll leave with a beautifully crafted, personalized chocolate bar—your edible trophy of Oaxaca’s sweet heritage.

If you’re looking for a way to learn, create, and indulge all at once, this workshop is an excellent choice. It’s a chance to bring home more than just souvenirs — you bring home a story, a skill, and a delicious memory from Mexico’s premier cacao region.

You can check availability for your dates here: