The Sierra de Manantlan was established as a biosphere reserve in 1987. In 1988, it was designated as part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

The reserve encompasses a forested mountain range with different zones representing different types of forest with different types of trees and foliage. These include cloud forests, deciduous forests, semi-dry forests and mixes of different types.

The jungles of the Sierra de Manantlan are home to a large number of very diverse species of both plant and animal.

More than 2,900 types of plant have been identified in the reserve with similarly large numbers of animal species. The reserve is home to more than 110 mammal species, 336 bird species (36 endemic) and 85 reptiles and amphibians (13 endemic).

Mammals include a lot of small animals like voles, gophers and rabbits but also include several species of jungle cat, including big ones like the puma and Jaguar, as well as smaller cats like the oncilla, jaguarundi, bobcat, and ocelot. More than a dozen species of bat live in the reserve including 4 that feed on fruits rather than insects.

Birdwatchers will find a number of tropical bird species in the reserve, including 36 endemic species. Birds of prey include the magnificent golden eagle. Colorful tropical birds include several kinds of parrot including the military Macaw, the red-lored amazon.

Reptiles and amphibians include 13 endemic species like the very rare Autlan rattlesnake (one of several kinds of rattlesnake lurking in the forests). Other reptiles include black iguanas and beaded lizards while amphibians include several kinds of frog.

From Colima, drive northwest on Av. J. Merced Cabrera, which will also bear signs as Colima state highway 3 as it leaves Colima. Continues on CO-3 for 80 km to the town of Ocote Arco, Jalisco, where you will find the entrance to reserve.