Santo Domingo: the cacao trail

This route was born in 2005 with the aim of promoting the culture and knowledge of cacao. The creation of the sendero del cacao, affiliated with Chococlub, the Italian Association of Chocolate Lovers, was made possible thanks to the RIZEK Group: a network of companies linked to production, marketing, investments, and services where cacao is the common denominator.

The exported product, organic cacao, is a leader in the local and international market, reaching even the US, European, and Asian markets. The company is currently the largest Dominican producer of quality cacao, thanks to the integration of an efficient group of professionals and a philosophy favoring the development of the cacao sector in all its aspects, blending traditional spirit with innovative ideas.

The heart of the trail unfolds inside the country, venturing through breathtaking landscapes and lush vegetation, arriving at San Francisco de Macorís, where the cacao plantations of Hacienda La Esmeralda García Jiménez are located, a company that extends over about 39 hectares: here, the first striking thing is the flowers of the cacao plants, with their delicate colors, as far as the eye can see.

A guide, along with specialized technicians, will illustrate how fruit harvesting, pod cutting, bean extraction, fermentation, drying, and packaging of cacao take place: all activities that fully engage the senses, especially touch, smell, and taste, since from the moment of harvest to packaging, the cacao fruit offers itself in all its generosity, releasing aromas and sweetnesses difficult to describe in words but that leave indelible memories.

The ecotourism experience culminates with the planting of a cacao tree, for which a certificate will also be received, promoting planet protection and greenery spreading. The excursion also includes the opportunity to participate in a workshop to produce chocolate in two different ways: the modern way, directly in the company’s chocolate factory, and the ancient way, according to the indigenous recipe. All sweets lovers will then be able to taste delicious hot chocolates coming from what the natives called “the food of the gods,” cacao.

An unforgettable moment for the sensations it gives, discovering one of the characteristic products of the Dominican Republic, which together with rum, cane sugar, and cigars is one of the sweet treasures of this country, ideal for authentic souvenirs capable of carrying back in all their persistence some of the typical scents of this land kissed by the sun.

Chococlub – Italian Association of Chocolate Lovers was founded in 1998 with the goal of bringing together all chocolate enthusiasts, the “food of the gods”: from simple sweet lovers to industry professionals (pastry chefs, tasters, and confectionery entrepreneurs). The association’s purpose is to promote, internationally, the knowledge of cacao and its enhancement through trips to producing areas, guided tastings, and themed events.