Northern Colombia Prepares for a Promising Coffee Harvest in 2025–2026

As we enter the final stretch of the year, ElevaFinca would like to share early insights into the upcoming harvest season in northern Colombia, covering the departments of Cesar and Magdalena, where we work closely with our partners at Riosierra.

Initial field observations point to encouraging prospects in both volume and quality, supported by coordinated efforts and generally favorable climate conditions, though several factors remain to be monitored as the season advances.

Harvest Timing and Field Conditions

The harvest in Cesar is expected to begin in September 2025, followed by Magdalena in October, with peak collection anticipated between November and December, and continuing into early 2026.This timeline is broadly consistent with last year’s cycle, offering a basis for planning and scheduling. Early signs include gradual cherry maturation and the mobilization of skilled labor by cooperatives, though climate variations could influence pace and consistency.

Volume Projections

The combined forecast across Cesar and Magdalena is currently estimated at 38.4 million kilos of parchment coffee, with the following breakdown:

Cesar

• Estimated production: 22 million kilos

• Key municipalities: Agustín Codazzi (4.8M), La Paz (4.5M), Pueblo Bello (4.2M)

• Cultivation area: ~24,158 hectares across 19 municipalities

• Equivalent to approximately 1,143 containers

  
  

Magdalena

• Estimated production: 16.4 million kilos

• Key producing zones: Santa Marta, Ciénaga, Aracataca, Fundación

• Involves ~4,914 farming families across 17,917 hectares

• Equivalent to approximately 851 containers

  
  

If these projections hold, this harvest could represent one of the stronger seasons of recent years, potentially exceeding last year’s volumes.

Quality Outlook and Regional Profiles

As the harvest season begins, early lots are offering a first glimpse into the unique potential of each region. Quality and consistency are expected to strengthen in the coming weeks.

• Cesar’s coffee, grown in the Serranía del Perijá, is showing promise as a distinctive origin with balanced profiles of aroma, body, and structure.

• Magdalena’s higher-altitude production continues to deliver smooth and well-balanced coffees from smallholder farms with long cultivation traditions.

  
  

Logistics and Harvest Readiness

Riosierra has prepared to support the season with trained field teams and local collaborators.

• Partnerships with transport providers are established to facilitate movement of coffee from farm to mill

• Focus remains on time and cost efficiency across the value chain

Risks and Mitigation

The main risks this season include:

• Heavy rainfall, which could disrupt picking and transport

• Labor shortages, given the anticipated volume

To address these, Riosierra and partners are reinforcing staffing, coordination, and contingency planning.