This majestic elephant can be seen enjoying a grassy snack on Google Street View. Photo / Google
If you've ever dreamed of a safari holiday but baulked at the price, here's your chance to experience one from afar.
With help from Google Street View, people from all over the world can witness elephants, leopards, zebras, warthogs and more from the comfort of their own home.
The online map service now offers viewers a 360-degree virtual drive through Kruger National Park in South Africa.
A post on Google's blog said the experience gave users the chance to see a rhinoceros grazing, an elephant enjoying a grassy snack, a herd of buffalo charging and an elusive leopard.
As well as Kruger National Park, the Mzansi Experience extends to the impressive view from Table Mountain, Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Cape Point, and Kirstenbosch Gardens.
Armchair tourists can also take a virtual stroll along the Sunset Beach and Durban's Golden Mile.
Located in northeastern South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in the continent. It became South Africa's first national park in 1926.
- nzherald.co.nz
Tackling untamed roads, temperamental weather and 'the issue of wandering sheep'.