Our Farm – A Regenerative Organic Permaculture Model

Nestled in the heart of the Dominican Republic, our 120-hectare farm is more than a place where cacao grows—it is a living example of regenerative agriculture, permaculture design, and deep ecological stewardship.

Over the past 15 years, our co-founder Günther Schichl has transformed former cattle pastures into a thriving food forest. Through the planting of more than 100,000 trees—including 60,000 cacao trees representing 15 genetic varieties such as Criollo, Trinitario, and Forastero—the farm has become one of the most recognized agroforestry projects in the Caribbean, frequently highlighted by permaculture experts around the world.

Beyond cacao, the farm hosts a diverse ecosystem of fruit and medicinal trees, including:

🌿 3,000 bitter orange trees
🥭 1,500 zapote trees
🥥 500 coconut palms
🥑 Numerous other fruit varieties such as avocado, mango, sweet lime, abiu, and Persian lime
🌶️ Spices and medicinal plants including turmeric, vanilla, pepper, chili, and many others

By integrating biodiversity, sustainable land management, and organic cultivation methods, we have restored the land, enriched soil health, and created a self-sustaining ecosystem that grows in harmony with its natural environment. 🌱✨

Unlike conventional cacao farms that rely on monoculture, pesticides, and aggressive farming, we cultivate a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem where cacao grows in harmony with nature. Our farm follows agroforestry and permaculture principles, ensuring that every plant and tree contributes to the health of the land.

Rather than uniform rows of cacao, we nurture a diverse food forest, where cacao grows alongside tropical fruits, medicinal plants, and hardwood trees, mimicking the balance of a natural rainforest. This approach enhances soil health, biodiversity, and cacao quality, allowing it to develop a richer flavor and stronger energetic presence.

🌱 Soil Regeneration – Deep-rooted trees and ground cover plants enrich the soil naturally and prevent erosion.
🐦 Biodiversity & Pollinators – The farm is a sanctuary for birds, bees, and butterflies, ensuring a healthy, balanced ecosystem.
🌿 No Chemicals, No Harm – We rely on companion planting and organic methods instead of pesticides.
🔥 High-Vibration Cacao – Grown in its natural habitat, our cacao develops exceptional flavor and powerful medicinal properties.
🌍 Climate Resilience – Biodiversity makes our farm more resistant to pests, diseases, and extreme weather.

We don’t just grow cacao—we cultivate a regenerative ecosystem that gives back to the Earth, creating truly sacred and sustainable cacao. 🌿✨

Every cacao bean that leaves our farm carries a story of love, patience, and conscious cultivation. From the moment our farmers hand-harvest each pod, every step of the journey is done with intention and care, ensuring the cacao retains its full medicinal properties, rich flavor, and spiritual essence.

🌱 Hand-Harvested with Care – Each pod is carefully selected at peak ripeness, ensuring the highest quality beans.

🔥 Fermented & Sun-Dried Naturally – Unlike industrial methods, our cacao is fermented in wooden crates and dried under the sun, allowing the flavors to fully develop while preserving vital nutrients.

🌍 Stone-Ground & Handcrafted – Processed in small batches, our cacao remains pure, minimally processed, and full of life force.

💛 Fair & Regenerative Trade – Every bean supports fair wages, ethical sourcing, and sustainable farming, ensuring a positive impact on both people and the planet.

When you drink Almarte cacao, you’re not just consuming a product—you’re participating in a sacred exchange. Every sip connects you to the land, the farmers, and a movement that honors nature, tradition, and conscious living. 🌿✨