Manu Biosphere Reserve

Manu is a tropical rainforest region and a National Park with the title Biosphere Reserve. Manu is the most bio-diverse region in the world. Some facts:

• 925 species of bird - 25% of all species known in South America

• The highest concentration of bird life on earth

• 13 species of primate

• Over 100 species of bat

• 13 endangered species, including black cayman, giant otter and ocelot

The reserve is among 25 of the earth's most important and fragile ecosystems which have been selected to receive money from Unesco. The park, located on the eastern slopes of the Andes in south-eastern Peru, spreads across an area half the size of Switzerland.

It rises from just 150 to 4,200 metres (500 to 13,600 feet) above sea level, is home to 13 different species of monkey, and has the highest concentration of bird life on earth. Apart from the huge variety in animals, it is home to some indigenous tribes.

Mountain forest in Manu Biosphere Reserve. This part of the
jungle is situated at 3500 m above sea level. The difference
between Manu's highest and lowest areas is over 3000 m.