One day, while walking through Antigua, we passed the Choco Museo Guatemala. Never one to resist temptation, I dragged the kids inside immediately. The intoxicating smell of chocolate filled the air, and we noticed a class happening at the back of the shop. After speaking with the staff, I booked two classes. I would take a truffle workshop, and then I’d return with Mia and Caius for a shorter chocolate-making class the following week. The anticipation was real.

Getting to ChocoMuseo Guatemala

Navigating Antigua on a scooter for the first time was slightly confusing. But much better than that dreadful bus ride in. The city’s grid layout and one-way streets kept me on my toes. Finally, we arrived, just 1.5 blocks from the central square, and I was only a minute late for our 11 am class. Perfect timing!

History of Chocolate at ChocoMuseo Antigua

We met the staff and our funny, knowledgeable instructor, who guided us to the back of the store to explain the history of cacao. Adjacent to the workshop space is a small museum showcasing chocolate’s fascinating journey.

I learned so much that day. Originally, chocolate was only consumed as a drink in South America. It took centuries before it reached Guatemala and even longer before Europeans discovered it, transforming it into milk chocolate and solid chocolate. They eventually transported cacao plants to Africa and Asia to expand cultivation.

Fun fact: Australians consume around 60 100g of chocolate bars per person per year. Guilty!

The Chocolate Making Process

After our history lesson, we got hands-on with the bean-to-chocolate process. We peeled the cacao beans, brewed tea with the shells, and created ganache from the beans. I was fascinated to learn that ganache originated from a French apprentice chef’s mistake, proving that beautiful things can come from errors.

Next came truffle making. We crafted around 30 truffles, experimenting with coatings like coconut, macadamia, sprinkles, chili, cinnamon, and other spices. While we worked, we watched chocolates being made in-store by the amazing Carol. She cooled silky milk chocolate before our eyes without ever licking her fingers, a skill I found impressive.

Using leftover milk chocolate, we made a sheet of 12 filled chocolate shells with sultanas, mint, cookies, and other delicious fillings.

The Sweet Results

Two hours flew by, and I was giddy with chocolate-fueled excitement. My truffles and chocolate shells were beautifully boxed to take home, a perfect memento of the experience.

ChocoMuseo Guatemala Workshop Details

ChocoMuseo Guatemala offers two main workshops: “Bean to Bar” and “Truffles.” We did the truffle workshop, which is pure indulgence. Classes run at 11 am, 1:30 pm, and 4 pm daily, and it’s essential to book ahead as spots fill quickly. In 2025, the cost is US$25 per class, an amazing value for two hours of chocolate-making fun and the chance to take your creations home.

ChocoMuseo Guatemala is consistently ranked as one of the top things to do in Antigua on TripAdvisor. Visit their website or Facebook page and make a chocolate adventure a priority on your next trip.

Returning with Kids for a Chocolate Adventure

Less than a week later, I brought Mia and Caius back for a “Bean to Bar” workshop. This class, similar to the truffle workshop, allowed the kids to learn about chocolate and then dive into making it themselves.

Caius, at 2, was a bit too young for the class and spent the first hour in my arms. Luckily, there’s a café attached, so we enjoyed hot chocolate and banana cake while exploring the beautiful fabrics sold nearby. Meanwhile, Mia was eager to jump in, apron on, ready to work alongside other students.

This class was messier than the adult workshop. Picture a 2- and 4-year-old making chocolate: “one for the mold, one for me, one for the mold, two for me…” You get the idea. Mia’s favorite part was licking the chocolate bowl clean after filling the molds. Surprisingly, Caius did a great job making chocolate lollipops, with most chocolate ending up in the molds.

Taking kids to ChocoMuseo Guatemala is highly recommended. Two weeks later, Mia is still asking to go back. Watching them enjoy making chocolate was priceless, and the class even included fruit and fondue for a sweet, healthy finish.

Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala is full of charming accommodations perfect for families. I recommend staying near the central square for easy access to attractions like ChocoMuseo. Options range from boutique hotels like Hotel Casa Santo Domingo, which features beautiful courtyards and a small museum, to family-friendly guesthouses like Meson Panza Verde, offering spacious rooms and lush gardens for kids to explore. Booking ahead is essential, especially in 2025, as Antigua continues to be a top destination for travelers.

Other Things to Do with Kids in Antigua Guatemala

Antigua has plenty of family-friendly activities beyond chocolate workshops. Explore the Antigua Guatemala Central Park, where kids can run and play amidst colonial architecture. Visit Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views of the city and volcanoes, or take a guided volcano hike suitable for older children. The Antigua Markets are full of colorful textiles, handmade crafts, and tasty snacks that make for fun cultural experiences. Families can also enjoy cooking classes, pottery workshops, and puppet shows around town.

Don’t forget, less than 6 hours away is Central America’s largest waterpark – Xocomil.

Explore With Erin Choco Museo Antigua Wrap Up

ChocoMuseo Guatemala isn’t just for adults – it’s an unforgettable experience for kids too. Watching Mia and Caius discover chocolate from bean to bar made me feel like the best parent ever. We left with sweet memories, big smiles, and boxes of chocolate treasures, all while learning the rich history of one of the world’s most beloved treats.