The 21st International Course on Dynamic Agroforestry Systems will take place from April 6 (arrival in La Paz) to April 17, 2025, offering a unique and immersive opportunity to explore the forefront of regenerative agriculture. Held in Alto Beni, Bolivia, this course combines theoretical knowledge with practical field experience, focusing on the principles and real-world application of Dynamic Agroforestry (DAF)—also known as Successional Agroforestry.

Why Alto Beni?

Alto Beni is internationally recognized for its agricultural innovation and biodiversity. As Bolivia’s most important cocoa-producing region, it stands out for producing cocoa almost entirely in agroforestry systems—a direct result of the longstanding promotion of agroforestry by ECOTOP and Fundación PIAF – El Ceibo.

In 1987, El Ceibo, in partnership with Rapunzel Naturkost, produced the world’s first organic certified cocoa, marking a historic milestone in organic agriculture. Since then, Alto Beni has served as a living laboratory for pioneering research in regenerative farming systems, inspiring national and international researchers and practitioners.

Today, the region’s commitment to sustainability is enshrined in law: Alto Beni has declared itself an agroecological province, and both the municipalities of Alto Beni and Palos Blancos have passed legislation prohibiting mining activities, in a bold move to protect their ecosystems and agricultural legacy.

What to Expect

Participants will engage with the SysCom Sara Ana International Research Centre, the world’s largest comparative cocoa systems project led by FiBL, and visit Bolivia’s oldest DAF systems, which exemplify the transformation from monoculture to biodiverse, resilient landscapes.

Course highlights include:

• Field visits to agroforestry systems at different successional stages

• Hands-on training in the design and management of Dynamic Agroforestry plots

• Exploration of carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement, soil fertility, and pest regulation

• Direct exchange with local producers and cooperatives such as El Ceibo

This course is ideal for facilitators, technical staff, researchers, and professionals in sustainable agriculture seeking in-depth knowledge and practical skills in one of the world’s most advanced agroforestry regions.

More Info