Google has officially launched Street View imagery of all of South Africa's national parks, nature reserves, top tourist attractions and a host of new trails.
More than 200 South African volunteers from across the country were involved in the 12-month project, mapping out the parts of South Africa that they call home. Many were SANParks, CapeNature and KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife rangers and guides. Others were avid hikers, nature lovers and tech enthusiasts.
"The hundreds of volunteers who helped along the way proved to be truly passionate about showing the best of South Africa through their participation in the loan program," said Magdalena Filak, program manager for Google.
The team of volunteers was coordinated by loan program partner Drive South Africa. Andre Van Kets, outdoor enthusiast and founder of the Cape Town-based travel company, saw the potential in this technology to showcase South Africa to travelers around the globe, when applying to the program.
"The Trekker camera is a 50-pound, custom-made backpack fitted with 15 cameras pointing in all directions. The onboard technology plots the camera's exact location on the trail. While recording, the camera takes a 360-degree photo every two seconds. It's basically the off-road equivalent of Google's Street View cars," said Van Kets.
"For the first time, travelers and wildlife lovers from across the globe can explore the full spectrum of South Africa's diverse wilderness areas on Google Maps and Street View," he added.