Manu National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Covering 1,716,295 hectares, it spans from the Amazon lowlands (300 m) to the Andean peaks (4,000 m), creating a unique range of ecosystems—from tropical rainforests and cloud forests to Andean grasslands.
Established in 1973, this remote, roadless region remains largely untouched by human impact. It is often called the “world’s lung” due to its immense oxygen production and ecological significance. The Manu River winds through its pristine forests before merging with the Madre de Dios River.
Indigenous presence in the park dates back centuries, as evidenced by Inca and pre-Inca ruins. Some indigenous communities remain in voluntary isolation, while others maintain traditional lifestyles. Legends of the lost city of Paititi continue to intrigue researchers and adventurers, adding to Manu’s mystique.
Manu National Park’s vast range of altitudes, climates, and soils creates a rich mosaic of ecosystems, from Andean grasslands to pristine cloud and tropical forests. This diversity supports an estimated 2,000 to 5,000 plant species and over 1,000 vertebrates, including 200 mammals and 800 birds. Iconic species like the jaguar, puma, giant otter, and Andean mountain cat thrive here, alongside 13 primate species and countless arthropods, including 1,300 butterfly species.
The park’s isolation has preserved its extraordinary biodiversity and high endemism. Its conservation status makes it one of the world’s most significant protected areas for wildlife. However, external threats such as gas extraction and road construction could impact this fragile ecosystem, highlighting the need for responsible management.
Manu has long been a reference for tropical ecology research, continuously revealing new species and deepening our understanding of rainforest ecosystems. Its exceptional biodiversity and abundance make it a true natural wonder, still holding many secrets yet to be uncovered.
Manu National Park remains one of the most untouched regions of the Peruvian Amazon, benefiting from its remote location and natural barriers. The presence of apex predators like jaguars, pumas, giant otters, and harpy eagles reflects its pristine state, with little evidence of invasive species.
The park is part of a vast conservation network, including Alto Purús National Park and Megantoni National Sanctuary, ensuring additional protection. It also connects to ecological corridors extending into the Brazilian and Bolivian Amazon. The entire Manu River basin is safeguarded, with minimal human interference limited to indigenous communities whose presence aligns with conservation efforts.
However, external developments pose potential risks, emphasizing the importance of protecting the park’s buffer zone to maintain its ecological integrity.
Manu National Park has remained largely untouched due to its isolation and long-term protection. Conservation efforts began in 1968 with the Manu Natural Reserve, later formalized as a national park in 1973. In 1977, UNESCO recognized it as the core of a larger biosphere reserve, now managed by SERNANP under Peru’s Ministry of the Environment.
The park is divided into zones, with the largest being the Restricted Zone, dedicated to conservation and research. Other areas allow regulated use, including cultural and recreational activities. Management follows a Master Plan with local stakeholder participation, though funding and resource gaps persist.
While immediate threats are minimal, infrastructure developments, such as roads and gas exploration near the park, could impact its integrity. The buffer zone plays a critical role in preserving Manu’s future. Additionally, the park safeguards indigenous communities from external pressures, necessitating clear policies to protect their way of life.
Like all national parks in Peru, Manu National Park is managed by SERNANP (National Service of Natural Protected Areas by the State).