Google Street View: Explore the Amazon on a Zip Line
You won't have to leave your desk for this adventure.
— -- How's this for a sweet getaway from the comfort of your desk?
Google Street View is taking people on an adventure through the Amazon rain forest all without having to ever pack a bag.
The spectacular tour was filmed on a zip line, allowing virtual travelers to take in the lush sights of tree tops, vines and thick moss that make up the rain forest's diverse ecosystem.
Another view takes viewers to the forest floor, surrounding them with towering trees, insects and plants. After exploring the 360-degree view there, hop on a boat and glide down the Rio Aripuanã or the Rio Mariepauá. Google said viewers can sail down more than 300 miles of the scenic rivers.
The tour also features stops in 17 local villages, allowing virtual travelers to see how people live along the Amazon River.
"These people are the devoted stewards of the river and forests, and protect it by living with it, preventing the destruction of the trees and the life that depends on them," a Google blog announcing the virtual tour said.
The adventure was made possible with the help of the Amazonas Sustainable Foundation, a group promoting preservation of the area.