Looking for something to do this Easter? Why not try a modern twist on the classic Easter egg hunt: Geocaching. Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunt game that uses your smartphone. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional egg hunts, offering adventure, exploration and a chance to connect with nature. Let’s delve into why you should try Geocaching this Easter weekend activity for families and friends and how you can get your own Geocaching adventure set-up.
What is Geocaching?
Geocaching is a real-life treasure hunt, the world’s biggest in fact! Powered by an easy-to-use app, with clues and information for where to find ‘treasures’ all over New Zealand and the world. Once found, a “cache” might contain a logbook so participants can leave their names and other trinkets. There are currently over 3 million active Geocaches globally and roughly 25,000 in New Zealand alone. So, odds are there are probably a few not too far from you!
The app provides detailed instructions from coordinates and clues to lengthy descriptions and sometimes photos to help you out. Finding a cache leaves you with a sense of achievement and a thirst for more!
So, instead of the traditional hunt for chocolate Easter eggs, you might want to rally the kids and get in teams to head out and find some treasure.
Why go Geocaching this Easter?
We all love a traditional Easter egg hunt, whether your favourite part is the competitive element of the hunt or enjoying your tasty haul afterwards. You can’t deny it’s a family hit. So why switch it up this year? First of all, Geocaching is completely free and requires little time or effort to pre-plan. That means, instead of hiding eggs all over the back lawn you can simply download an app! We do suggest having some chocolate on hand as prizes for finding caches or else it might not be such a hit with the kids!
Geocaching is also a great excuse to get outside and have some fun whilst exploring your neighbourhood. Being an engaging outdoor activity, Geocaching takes participants on a real adventure outdoors. It encourages exploration of parks, forests, urban areas, and scenic landscapes. It’s an excellent way to get some fresh air, exercise, and soak up some Vitamin D. All while bonding or competing with loved ones!
How to get set up?
Setting up is super simple. The app is available for download on both Android and iOS. Whilst there are some premium options, the free version allows you to find and collect basic Geocaches. Once you’ve downloaded the app, setting up an account can be done with either an online account like Facebook or Google, or just by using your email and password.
Make sure you’ve allowed the app to access your location, then you’re all set to begin. Simply bring up the in-app map and see what Geocaches are around you. Tap on one cache you would like to find and then you will be given more details about its location. Details can include hints, descriptions and photos. The app also has a handy difficulty rating and list of attributes to see if the Geocache is ideal for you and the kids to go hunting for.
Now that you’re all set to go Geocaching this Easter, make sure to download the app and give it a try! Having trouble navigating your smart device? Struggling to connect to the Wi-Fi at home? Reach out to the Geeks for help with all things tech. Our expert technicians can help with everything from computer repairs to smart home set-ups.