This archive report was first published on 7 December 2019.
On December 7, 2019, Google officially launched its virtual maps feature, known as Street View, for some Kenyan parks and conservancies.
The move will enable tourists all over the world to take virtual tours around Kenya, exploring landmarks and park features remotely.
Some of the parks scheduled for the service include Amboseli, Nairobi National Park, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru, Hell’s Gate, Mt Kenya, and Samburu National Reserve.
According to Google Kenya country director Charles Murito, 'With 82% of travellers undecided on a destination and 74% of them starting their research or inspiration online, it’s critical that we have Kenya online.'
The virtual map captures 360-degree ground-level imagery, allowing users to explore the parks remotely.
The capture of images was done through a collaboration between Google, the Ministry of Tourism, Kenya Wildlife Services, the county governments of Narok and Samburu, and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Street View, by Google Maps, is a virtual representation of our surroundings on Google Maps, consisting of millions of panoramic images.