The Cayman Islands has become part of a global treasure hunt game, described as “high-tech hide and seek.”
The “geocaching” phenomenon involves participants using GPS devices to locate containers hidden by other enthusiasts all over the world.
There are already 100 “caches” on the Cayman Islands at locations including the Mastic Trail, the Wreck of the Ten Sail, and even underwater at the Kittiwake and at Stingray City.
Participants use a website to get coordinates and then seek out the cache.
Jane van der Bol of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association, which has a cache on its grounds, said the game helps divert tourists to different spots around the island.
She said it spread to the Cayman Islands through a group of local residents who started the trend here.
“The idea is to make sure that the caches are in fun places that are unique, like Smith Cove. Not every tourist thinks to go to Smith Cove, but if they are on a treasure hunt, they might.
“I don’t think people travel to a place to cache, but if they are on vacation somewhere, then they will go treasure hunting for caches.”
Caches are typically waterproof containers containing a log book, pen and “trade items.” When participants find the cache, they record their names and write about their exploits in the log book. They can also trade the items inside for something of equal or greater value.
According to CITA, there are more than 6 million geocachers worldwide, treasure hunting across 100 countries. They communicate through websites like www.geocaching.com, where coordinates are listed.
Ms. van der Bol believes the activity could be promoted as an exciting, low-cost way for families to explore the island.
She added, “Geocaching in Grand Cayman is a fun way for residents and visitors alike to enjoy a simple, inexpensive activity that allows them to explore and feel the excitement of a treasure hunt.”
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