Durga’s Den

Durga’s Den is a farm stay experience in Jamaica that offers visitors and volunteers the opportunity to engage in a holistic, sustainable lifestyle rooted in authentic Jamaican culture. Guests can enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, organic food, natural living amenities like rainwater showers, and scenic surroundings while participating in or observing the day-to-day rhythms of rural life and community hospitality.

Durga’s Den is a regenerative eco-farm and agrotourism retreat nestled in the lush hills of St. Ann Parish, Jamaica. Founded in 2007 by Lise and Michael Alexander, the five-acre property blends organic agriculture, cultural immersion, and sustainable infrastructure to offer guests and volunteers an authentic Jamaican lifestyle experience. The farm operates off-grid, utilizing solar power, rainwater harvesting, and composting systems to minimize environmental impact .

Visitors to Durga’s Den can choose from various accommodation options, including private cottages and group facilities, all designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings. The retreat emphasizes a holistic approach to living, encouraging guests to engage with the land, participate in daily farm activities, and enjoy farm-to-table meals prepared with organic produce grown on-site .

Their Work

Permaculture & Organic Farming

Durga’s Den employs a range of regenerative farming practices aimed at restoring soil health and promoting biodiversity. Techniques include:

• Agroforestry Planning: Integrating trees and shrubs into crop and animal farming systems to create more diverse, productive, and sustainable land-use systems.

• Living Soil Management: Utilizing cover crops, crop rotation, and organic composting to enhance soil fertility and structure.

• Water Conservation: Implementing swales and terraces to manage water runoff and reduce erosion .

Community Engagement

The farm actively engages with the local community through various outreach programs:

• Educational Workshops: Hosting workshops on topics such as composting toilet construction and sustainable agriculture practices.

• Youth Programs: Providing local children with access to an internet café for homework and educational resources.

• Market Participation: Selling organic produce at local markets in Ocho Rios and Kingston, promoting healthy eating and supporting the local economy .

Volunteer and Internship Opportunities

Durga’s Den offers volunteer and internship programs for individuals interested in sustainable living and farming. Participants contribute to daily farm operations, gain hands-on experience in regenerative agriculture, and engage with the local community. In exchange, volunteers receive accommodation and meals, fostering a cultural exchange and learning environment .

Key Approaches

• Off-Grid Living: Utilizing solar energy and rainwater harvesting systems to achieve energy and water independence.

• Composting Toilets: Designing and implementing composting toilet systems to manage waste sustainably.

• Permaculture Design: Applying permaculture principles to create self-sustaining agricultural ecosystems.

• Community-Based Tourism: Integrating local culture and community involvement into the tourism experience to promote mutual benefit and understanding.