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Birthplace of Coffee

The Birthplace of Coffee

Trace the legendary origins of coffee back to its roots in the ancient forests of Ethiopia, a journey of flavor and tradition.

Legend has it that a 9th-century goat herder named Kaldi discovered the energizing effects of coffee beans after noticing his goats became lively after eating berries from a particular tree. This discovery in the Kaffa region of Ethiopia changed the world forever.

Today, coffee is central to Ethiopian culture. To be invited to a coffee ceremony is a sign of friendship and respect.

The Coffee Ceremony

The traditional coffee ceremony, or 'buna,' is a vital social ritual. It's a process that involves roasting the beans over charcoal, grinding them, and brewing them in a special clay pot called a 'jebena.' Guests are served three rounds—abol, tona, and baraka—each said to transform the spirit.

A traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony

Explore the Coffee Regions

Kaffa
Kaffa

The ancestral home of coffee. Visit the area where the legend of Kaldi began and explore dense, wild coffee forests.

Sidamo
Sidamo

Known for its rich, full-bodied beans with floral and citrus notes. The region's high altitudes contribute to its complex flavors.

Yirgacheffe
Yirgacheffe

One of the world's most prized coffee origins, Yirgacheffe beans are famous for their bright, fruity, and tea-like characteristics.