Hidden high on Bordeaux Mountain, overlooking the Virgin Islands National Park and the Caribbean Sea, Yaya's Perch @ Bordeaux Botanica is unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. This immersive eco-glamping experience is for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a genuine connection with nature. A winding forest path leads through lush botanical gardens alive with tropical flora and fauna. With every step, the modern world fades away until you arrive at your own private mountain sanctuary.
Experience the wild beauty of the island without sacrificing comfort at Yaya's Perch, where authentic nature meets modern comfort. The elevated open-air pavilion overlooks miles of protected Virgin Islands National Park descending to the Caribbean Sea. Wake to birdsong, fresh mountain air, and distant ocean waves. Spend the day exploring St. John's world-famous beaches, hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters before returning to your private retreat in the mountains. As night falls, the forest comes alive with tree frogs, crickets, night birds, and countless hidden creatures. It's one of nature's greatest performances.
Yaya's Perch is located within Bordeaux Botanica, a regenerative food forest and botanical garden on Bordeaux Mountain. Explore our shaded walking trails and enjoy exclusive guest access to fresh, seasonal produce harvested straight from our food forest!
This unique glamping experience is ideal for adventurous nature lovers! If you are not a nature lover, this is not for you. If your dream vacation includes beaches, forests, wildlife, mountain breezes, and unforgettable views, you'll feel right at home.
Everything you need for a comfortable island adventure:
• 10x10 Kodiak Canvas Crossbow tent. Queen-size bed with bamboo sheets, blankets, and pillows.
• Indoor bathroom with flushing toilet and sink. 4 sets of shower towels, hand towels, wash cloths, beach towels
• Outdoor hot-water shower
• Covered outdoor kitchen with mini fridge, gas stove and oven, Dometic Recon 41L (42 Qt) cooler, blender, electric water kettle, French press, pots, pans, dishes, cutlery, cooking utensils, dry food storage, etc.
• Organic herbs and spices, cooking oils, and other culinary treats!
• Covered outdoor living area with hammock, hanging bench, table and chairs. 2 yoga mats are also provided.
• Gas grill
• Fire pit with seating for 2
• Snorkel gear for 2
• Guests may also purchase seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs, and microgreens harvested from Bordeaux Botanica.
Seasonal experiences may also be available, including:
• Guided paddleboard tours
• Interactive botanical garden tours
• Private yoga sessions
Located approximately 1,200 feet above sea level on Bordeaux Mountain, Yaya's Perch borders Virgin Islands National Park.
Approximate driving times:
• 20 minutes to Cruz Bay
• 10 minutes to Coral Bay
• 10 minutes to North Shore beaches
The final three minutes are along an unpaved mountain road.
A 4WD or AWD vehicle is strongly recommended.
The name Yaya comes from Taíno tradition, honoring the life-giving Creator Spirit associated with the origins of the sea and all living things. The name reflects what makes this place special. Here, forest, mountain, wildlife, and people exist together in balance. Every sunrise, birdsong, flowering orchid, and gentle trade wind reminds us that we are guests within a living ecosystem.
Yaya's Perch is located within Bordeaux Botanica, a regenerative agroforestry estate and living botanical garden on Bordeaux Mountain. Upon arrival to the gravel parking area, Guests walk 5 minutes down a winding trail through the forest until reaching the gate for Yaya's Perch.
Yaya's Perch is intentionally immersed in nature and offers an authentic Caribbean forest experience.
This stay is best suited for guests who:
• Are 18 or older
• Are comfortable walking on natural garden and forest paths
• Can navigate uneven terrain
• Appreciate wildlife and outdoor living
• Enjoy loud nature sounds at night. This forest puts on an impressive natural orchestra throughout the night! (Similar to the "rain forest" setting on a noise machine at medium to higher volumes. Ear plugs are recommended if you prefer a lower volume.)
• Have good night time vision, as pathways are softly lit to preserve the natural environment and exceptional stargazing. A flashlight or headlamp is recommended.
This is not a resort. It is a peaceful, authentic Caribbean forest experience.
If you are visiting us during the months of July - November, please note that this is hurricane season. If a tropical storm or hurricane is forecast to pass through or near St. John, you will be contacted immediately to change your travel plans. We will not be able to provide accommodation. In this unlikely event, a full refund will be issued.
