Travelers are just now beginning to discover Manu, the least explored section of the Peruvian Amazon and also one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. UNESCO declared Manu a World Heritage site in 1987 because of the abundance of life here, and yet there are still only around 3,000 visitors to Manu each year. Adventurous travelers and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path type of experience are now looking to Manu for their exploration of the Amazon.
The cloud forest, with its cooler temperatures, higher elevation, and increased moisture creates an ideal home for some of the most interesting species in the Amazon. Every tree and shrub is teeming with life from thick, rich mosses, giant leafy ferns, to rare orchids, and bromeliads which attract naturalists and biologists. Bird watchers come here not only to spot the vibrant colored birds, shocking against the bright green plant life, but also to hear the constant chattering and singing that creates a natural musical background to the visual experience. Manu has over 15,000 plant species and close to 1,000 bird species for the curious traveler to observe, study, and photograph.
Of course the most popular bird is the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, with its flaming orange head and puffed crest. This is Peru’s national bird and there are few spectacles that compare to the males’ flamboyant and ostentatious dance while they court the females. Budding film makers and photographers often use these birds as subjects for their artistic endeavors.
Another subject of great interest to those who dare brave the forest after dark is the night monkey, the only truly nocturnal monkey. These small primates weigh between 2 and 3 pounds and make an incredible variety of sounds from low trills and grunts, to screams and hoots. The monkeys live in family groups and can often be located for observation after the sun sets. Unfortunately, these monkeys are one of the few species who are susceptible to malaria and have been used for scientific research for the prevention of malaria in humans.
