Manu biosphere reserve

Manu National Park, covering an area of 4.3 million acres and straddling the departments of Cusco and Madre de Dios, is Peru’s largest protected natural area - and one of the largest on the planet. Its biological diversity unparalleled anywhere else on earth, the bio reserve was declared a World Heritage site in 1987 by UNESCO.

The area has three levels of protection: an untouchable center – to preserve wildlife and virgin forest; a reserved area, where strictly controlled use is permitted for the extraction of resources, research, and tourism; and a cultural area, where villages and farming are allowed.

Manu is home to Amazonian indigenous groups, many choosing to live in voluntary isolation. Each group is unique, with their own language, harvesting techniques, hunting and fishing practices, religious rituals, and medicine. Manu is also home to more than 800 species of birds; including the harpy eagle, jabiru, and cock-of-the-rock, 200 species of mammals such as the black maquisapa monkey, giant river otter, black caiman, jaguar, ocelot, spectacled bear, and huemal deer. There are many varieties of insects and reptiles yet to be classified, and more than 2,000 classified species and unique varieties of plants - including giant orchids and trees towering up to 45 meters high and 3 meters in diameter (147 ft tall and 10 ft in diameter).

Attractions & Activities:

• Anthropology
• Eco-tourism
• Tours with expert and highly experienced guides & naturalists
• Wildlife & bird watching
• Jungle Treks
• River rafting