Pure Tree Experience — Local services in Bastimentos

Janette gave great instructions on getting there. When we reached their home in the jungle there were cats and a dog there and happy to greet us, same with Janette she was very pleasant and welcoming. We got to meet the animals as well as 3 of the parrots loving around the area. She told us about a tortoise that also lived close by. Her son took us on the tour, he informed us about many plants and the uses of them. As we smelled, ate and observed the different plants growing in their space he would also tell us the things we would get to try and eat later in the lunch being prepared for us. This was very nice because it helped us look forward to experiencing these new things and actually eat them prepared. We got to see monkeys and learned so much about what grows on the island. The food was all amazing there wasn't even one thing I didn’t enjoy, from soups, bread, plantain chips and fruit and hot coco it was all delicious. Worth the money 110% these guys will give you an experience you won’t forget. At the end we got to see all the creative items being sold such as paintings, jewelry, clay, oils, lip balms and so much more. There’s so much joy and creativity that goes into a place like this and it leaves you feeling full from such a way of living. I support all you guys are doing !!...

My wife and I shared an amazing experience with both the family and a small group of amazing people. The hike from the boat dock is colourfull and peppered with locals living like locals along the way up the hill. A kind local pointed us to sticks at the beginning of the gravel trail, definitely, take a stick. The trail is easy by many standards but the rains can make it slick. At the top of the hill we met Janette and Teo and their beautiful organic labour of love. This is truly the image of organic farming I've dreamed of. The hike through the farm is very unexpected with Teo pointing out and providing samples to smell touch and taste of various plants. The cacao trees were growing wild as well as all the other edible plants. We were treated to a truly awesome lunch experience, everything harvested that morning was prepared by the family and served by Teo. Teo explained each course of the lunch and left us all too enjoy the experience and to socialize with the group. I wish we could have spent more time on Bastimentos, we will have to go back again before we leave. If you are planning to to visit the islands, this is a must see. We will most certainly be repeat...

I had the most incredible time on this tour! The adventure begins with a scenic 15–20 minute hike from Old Bank up to the highest hill on Bastimentos — part jungle path, part winding walk through the colorful town. The trail is well marked, and though it’s definitely an uphill trek, the views (and the experience waiting at the top) make every step worth it.

Once on the tour, I was blown away. Our guide, the middle son, was so knowledgeable and passionate, weaving together fascinating lessons on permaculture, organic farming, and cacao production. Everywhere you look, something new is growing — cacao pods, tropical fruits, herbs, etc. He would just pull something off of a tree or bush and give it to us to eat!!

The tasting portion was a highlight — fresh edible plants and fruits right from the garden, and a rich, aromatic chocolate milk that was some of the best I’ve had. The experience ended with a hearty farm-fresh snack that honestly felt more like a delicious lunch: warm homemade bread, fresh toppings, and their famous brownie, which absolutely lives up to the hype.

After the tour, I lingered to take photos of their cute birds...