Geocaching is an outdoor recreational activity that involves using a Global Positioning System (GPS) or a mobile app to navigate to specific coordinates and find hidden containers called geocaches . These containers are hidden all over the world by other participants . Geocaching is often described as a real-world treasure hunt and is considered a family-friendly activity .

How It Works

1. Find a geocache Using the Geocaching app or website, search for geocaches near your location .

2. Navigate Use a GPS device or the app to navigate to the coordinates of the geocache .

3. Find the cache Look for a hidden container, which can vary in size and may be camouflaged .

4. Sign the logbook Once found, sign the logbook inside the cache to prove you found it .

5. Trade items (optional) Some larger caches contain trinkets or toys for trade. If you take something, leave something of equal or greater value .

6. Replace the cache Put the cache back exactly as you found it .

7. Share your experience Log your find online and share your experience with the geocaching community .

The first geocache was placed on May 3, 2000, and the activity was originally called “GPS stash hunt” . The name was later changed to “geocaching”. Today, there are over 3 million geocaches hidden in 190 countries .