Cacao Trail and Chocolate Making Tour from Santo Domingo
Join our Chocolate Tour Santo Domingo and savor the heart of the Dominican Republic at El Sendero del Cacao. This immersive bean-to-bar journey takes you from cocoa plantations to chocolate tasting and moulding.
This immersive day trip takes you to El Sendero del Cacao in San Francisco de Macorís, one of the country’s most renowned cocoa plantations.
From bean to bar, discover how the Dominican Republic became a world leader in sustainable cocoa production. Walk through lush plantations, learn ancestral traditions, and follow the tantalizing aroma into a real chocolate factory. Along the way, you’ll enjoy an authentic Dominican lunch, savor a guided chocolate tasting, and even craft your own chocolate mold to take home.
More than just a tour, this is a cultural journey into the flavors, history, and heritage of Dominican cocoa. Perfect for foodies, families, and travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the city.
Tour Highlights
Your journey commences in Santo Domingo, with a scenic drive to Hacienda La Esmeralda, an organic cocoa plantation known for its superior quality produce. The day unfolds as follows:
- Warm Welcome: Start your day with a delightful cup of hot chocolate upon arrival.
- Cocoa Plantation Tour: Wander through the lush greenery and learn about the secrets behind quality cocoa cultivation.
- Chocolate Factory Visit: Follow the tantalizing scent to the factory, where you'll uncover the final stages of crafting exquisite chocolate.
- Authentic Dominican Lunch: Relish a typical Dominican meal after the morning's activities.
- Chocolate Tasting: Learn how to savor chocolate using all five senses, deepening your appreciation for the gourmet delight.
- Masterclass: Gain insight into crucial processes like fermentation and drying, key to the production of gourmet chocolate.
- Chocolate Moulding: Make your own chocolate mold, a fun and memorable end to your tour.
Itinerary Overview
- 06:30–08:00 a.m. → Hotel pick-up in Santo Domingo.
- Welcome Drink → Hot chocolate on arrival at Hacienda La Esmeralda.
- Plantation Tour → Guided walk through organic cocoa fields.
- Chocolate Factory → Learn about fermentation, drying, and production.
- Dominican Lunch → Traditional meal with local flavors.
- Chocolate Tasting → Explore chocolate with all five senses.
- Masterclass & Moulding → Create your own chocolate bar.
- Return to Santo Domingo → Evening drop-off at your hotel.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This itinerary is for reference only. Timings and sequence may vary depending on road conditions, group size, and logistics. We ensure the best possible experience on the day of your tour.
What's included
- Round-trip transportation from Santo Domingo.
- Professional bilingual guide.
- Visit to cocoa plantation and chocolate factory.
- Dominican lunch.
- Chocolate tasting session.
- Chocolate moulding workshop.
What’s Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses or souvenirs.
- Tips (optional).
Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes.
- Bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
- Carry valid ID or passport.
- Bring extra cash/credit card for purchases.
- Don’t forget your camera!
