The largest Tropical Rainforest biosphere reserve on earth lies the furthest tip of the upper Amazonas river in the remote south-eastern region of Peru. Only 100 miles (160 Km) from the spectacular Archaeological Inca Site of Machupicchu, Manu is unique in that it protects three, highly distinct ecosystems: the Puna-a high altitude, Tundra-like area characterized by pale yellow ichu grass, isolated blue lakes and tassel eared llamas. The Cloud forest-a mysterious world bathed in constant mist and inhabited by brilliant red Cock of the Rocks, Spectacled Bears and scores of dripping tree ferns. The Lowland Rainforest –home of the Black Caiman, Giant Otter, 13 species of Monkeys and over 1000 species of Birds (10% of the world’s total). Although invaded at different times by Incas, Spanish “conquistadors” and Victorian rubber kings, Manu Biosphere Reserve has largely been protected through the centuries both by its remote location and by the presence of hostile native tribes. Manu currently supports four native ethnic groups-two of which are still uncontacted-and protects 4,646,564 acres (1,881,200 hectares) of land. Almost half the size of Switzerland, Manu is perhaps the most species-rich protected area to be found anywhere on earth.