Following the first of the three-part BBC2 programme “I Bought a Rainforest” which aired on Sunday, all eyes are on the astounding region of Manu in the Peruvian Amazon – one of the most bio-diverse places on earth. The programme follows wildlife photographer and presenter, Charlie Hamilton James as he buys a plot of land in Manu, a region in the south west basin of the Amazon, and uncovers problems facing the forest including illegal gold mining, logging and poverty. With the help of crees (www.crees-manu.org) – a not-for-profit organisation based in Manu which strives to improve the future of the Amazon through wildlife and community projects, Charlie embarks on a mission to understand the underlying problems and a campaign to work with the local people and preserve the region's spectacular forests.

crees and Steppes Travel have launched a new photography tour with Charlie Hamilton James offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be guided and coached by Charlie, photojournalist and television presenter, learning new skills with the camera and about life in the Amazon. Guests will be able to explore Manu National Park - a fascinating area of primary rainforest in southern Peru - and gain a unique insight into the work of research scientists in the area, with the chance to help with monitoring programmes. Profits from staying in Manu go back into conservation and community work in this area.

*NEW* 14-day 'Rainforest Photography Tour with Charlie Hamilton-James' in the Manu Biosphere Reserve from £5,225 per adult. The wildlife focused itinerary includes one night in Cusco, nine nights in Manu with crees (including 5 nights at Romero Lodge with Charlie) on a full-board basis. The price includes return international and domestic flights, transfers and accommodation. For more information please visit www.steppestravel.com / 0843 778 9926

For further press information please contact:

Frangelica Flook frangelica.flook@cedartreepr.com

Henrietta Quicke henrietta.quicke@cedartreepr.com

T:  020 7978 4534, M:  07747 606 898

Note to Editors:

Steppes Travel:  Specialist tour operator Steppes Travel designs innovative tailor-made itineraries for 'off the beaten track' trips. With over two decades' experience in the industry, Steppes Travel fields a team of creative, knowledgeable and responsible experts committed to providing ethical, pioneering journeys all over the world.

Steppes Discovery:  Exceptional wildlife holidays focusing on conservation with sustainable and responsible travel at the forefront of their mind.By joining forces with local research projects on an Indian tiger safari or whilst gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, or supporting carefully chosen wildlife charities in the Galapagos Islands, Steppes Discovery is able to give privileged insight into the natural world while supporting conservation and local communities worldwide.

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