If you’ve ever gone on a geocaching adventure, you know just how exciting it can be to unlock the treasure at the end of a long journey. And if you’re new to the popular activity, we have a feeling that after reading this blog post, you’ll be itching to go on your own excursion.
Geocaching is when people use GPS navigation systems to find hidden containers called “geocaches.” When geocachers come across a geocache that they want to explore further, they log their name and the date in them. If you’re interested in geocaching yourself but don’t know where to begin, look no further than this list of our favorite apps for finding the perfect cache near you!
Table of Contents
Best Apps For Geocaching
- Geocaching by Groundspeak
This is the game’s official app, which is why it appears first in this list (and also because it is compatible with both Android and iOS). It features a free version that allows users access to just the basic caches with easy difficulty and terrain ratings. For $29.99 per year you have the option to go premium, which greatly enhances the available features of the app.
You will have access to the premium caches with higher difficulty ratings. It also gives you the option to download maps for offline use, absolutely vital if you are heading out of range for a while.
Pros
The free version allows users to get a feel for the game before committing.
It is compatible with both iOS and Android.
Cons
The free version is quite limited.
New caches must be logged on the website.
Download the app here: geocaching.com
- C:Geo
This app is available for android users only and is completely free, which is perfect for those not looking to take cache hunting too seriously. You will still need a geocaching.com account, and although it will work better with a premium membership, that is not actually necessary.
You are able to view geocaches on a live map, on either Google Maps or OpenStreetMaps and search for those caches by various criteria. You are also able to log your finds in either online or offline mode, store cache information on your android device and also manage and create waypoints.
Pros
Store caches and maps on your device to view in offline mode.
Easy to use and navigate with compass, map or other available apps.
Cons
Not available for iOS users.
Download the app here: play.google.com
- Cachly
Cachly is an iOS only app that is compatible with iPhones, iPads and even Apple Watches. There is no free version – you can get the app for a one-time payment of $4.99 – but it is packed with features that will make your cache-hunting experience easier and fun.
Not only can you download maps for offline use, but you can also choose your favorite map app: Google Maps, Apple Maps or even Ordinance Survey for the serious hunters.
It has other really handy features, such as the ability to find caches close to the one you are already searching for, and to hide caches on the map. This is particularly useful if you have already found the geocache and want to remove it to avoid confusion, or perhaps you are just not interested in finding it in the first place.
Pros
Fairly easy to use and inexpensive.
You can social network with other treasure hunters by adding friends who have a geocaching.com account.
Cons
It only works for iOS.
There is no free version.
Download the app here: cach.ly
- Cache Maid
This android app is Geocaching-live enabled so that you can download caches and upload logs wherever you are in the world. It offers an array of advanced features that are easy to navigate. It features offline maps, paperless caching and support for trackables, as well as the ability to import pocket queries and gpx files.
Pros
Great for offline use.
Free to download.
Cons
The GPS sometimes disconnects with the app.
Need to purchase additional features via in-app purchases.
Only available for Android.
Download the app here: play.google.com
- Looking 4 Cache Pro
This iOS app comes in a ‘Lite’ version which is free of charge, however the Pro version, which comes with an array of extra features, is the one we recommend. Priced at $5.99, this app comes with everything you would expect from a program using the geocaching.com live API. You can download information to view in offline mode, and import a gpx file or a pocket query.
Another nice touch is the proximity alert, so you can keep your iPhone in your pocket and be notified according to how close you are to the target. Or alternatively, install and sync the app on your Apple Watch to see what it happening without having to continually remove your phone from your pocket.
We also like the ability to enter corrected coordinates directly into the app, as well as a collapsible compass that you can position above the map.
Pros
There is a free version of the app to see if you like it
It is compatible with Apple Watches
Best geocaching app for android
c:geo
One of the most popular geocacher apps out there, this free and open-source program does not use the official geocaching API. This can cause issues as updates don’t necessarily happen immediately and don’t translate to the app directly. It does support functions like importing lists of caches, searching for nearby ones, and saving relevant info. It’s easy to use and, all in all, a solid choice especially for a casual geocacher.
Locus Map Free
This app isn’t geocaching-specific – it’s for generic outdoor navigation. The offline maps are great if you lose connectivity and the app is integrated with the official Geocaching API. It lets you import your tracks and GPS location. The map is quite accurate and detailed, and you can turn individual caches on and off at will.
GCC – GeoCache Calculator
GCC is a complete tool that offers all sorts of help with puzzles and the like. It has calculators, converters, en- and de-crypting tools and more, but you’ll need a map-tool to go along with it. You’ll be able to solve all sorts of puzzles with relative ease – this one is definitely a must-have for any dedicated geocaching puzzler.
Best Paid Apps:
Geocaching
This is the official geocaching app directly from Groundspeak. While it is somewhat pricy, it also provides a complete experience. Updates and changes go live immediately, and functions like pas logs, hints and more are all available. It also supports offline use and has a built-in compass – just about everything you could want from this sort of app. It isn’t too intuitive to use though, so if you are just starting out, you may want to go with a free option before committing to this one.
CacheMaid
This one has a 30-day demo so that you can try the app before you buy it. It uses the official geocaching API and is a pretty basic app. It features lists, details and a map as well as a compass, but not much more. It’s simple enough to use, but if you are looking for a fully-featured app, there are some simpler choices out there. For casual use, this is a great cheaper alternative to the official Groundspeak app though!
Conclusion
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