Chocolate de la Cuenca de Altamira
Altamira, Puerto Plata, Dominican RepublicImpact
Chocolate de la Cuenca de Altamira (CHOCAL) has been working diligently since 2008 to foster employment and economic development opportunities for women. Founded by 30 women, they established a production plant where they craft various chocolate products.
Through Planeterra’s partnership, Chocal has connected with travellers inside an Iberostar Resort, allowing guests to experience Dominican culture and indulge in delicious, high-quality chocolate. This additional revenue will boost their income, enabling the community to grow and thrive.
Critical Need
CHOCAL produces high-quality organic chocolate products. It has provided many women in Altamira with the opportunity to acquire new skills and generate sustainable income. Now, numerous women have become empowered business owners and experienced chocolate producers.
The “Women of Altamira” serve as role models for other women and youth in the community, earning respect and admiration. Through their hard work and dedication, they have showcased their capacity for learning, leadership, and their commitment to enhancing the economic, social, and environmental conditions of the area.
They are the driving force behind the sweetness of CHOCAL, setting its heart in motion every morning.
Our Involvement
Planeterra collaborated with CHOCAL to create a community tourism experience that could be integrated into one of the Iberostar resorts in the Dominican Republic. Here, visitors can enjoy a short experience learning about chocolate production from the plant to the table and purchase various chocolate products.
Additionally, Planeterra provided a grant to set up stands within the hotel, allowing travellers to feel immersed in the community and recreate a community tourism experience onsite. We also conducted training sessions on how to develop such experiences. Thanks to these efforts, many of the Iberostar guests can now enjoy community tourism within the hotel, going beyond the typical resort experience.
