Orienteering is an exciting outdoor sport that combines physical endurance with mental
navigation skills. Participants use a detailed map and compass to navigate through unfamiliar terrain,
finding a series of checkpoints (called "controls") in the shortest time possible.
🎯 In Simple Terms: Orienteering is like a treasure hunt in the wilderness, where your
map-reading and decision-making skills are just as important as your running speed.
A Brief History
Orienteering originated in Scandinavia in the late 19th century as a military training exercise. The first
public orienteering competition was held in Norway in 1897. Since then, it has grown into a worldwide sport
with competitions at all levels, from local club events to the World Orienteering Championships.
Today, orienteering is practiced in over 80 countries, with particularly strong traditions in Sweden, Norway,
Finland, Switzerland, and Russia.
How Does Orienteering Work?
The Objective
Complete a course by visiting all control points in the correct order, as quickly as possible. Each control
is marked on your map with a circle and has a physical marker (orange and white flag) in the terrain.
The Equipment
Map: A highly detailed topographic map showing terrain features like hills, valleys,
vegetation, paths, and buildings
Compass: Used to orient the map and take bearings
Control Card or E-Punch: To record your visit at each control point
Appropriate Clothing: Usually lightweight, protective clothing suitable for running
through forests
The Course
Courses are designed for different skill levels:
Beginner: Short courses (2-3 km) with controls on easy-to-find features like trail
junctions
Intermediate: Medium courses (3-5 km) requiring more navigation skills
Advanced: Long courses (5-15 km) with technically challenging control placements
Types of Orienteering
Foot Orienteering: The classic form - navigating on foot through forests and open
terrain
Mountain Bike Orienteering (MTBO): Navigate on a bicycle along trails and roads
Ski Orienteering: Navigate on cross-country skis in winter
Trail Orienteering: Precision map-reading from set viewpoints (accessible to people
with disabilities)
Sprint Orienteering: Fast-paced urban orienteering in parks and city centers
Why Try Orienteering?
🏃 Physical Fitness: Great cardiovascular workout combining running with varied
terrain
🧠 Mental Challenge: Develops problem-solving, decision-making, and spatial
awareness
🌲 Outdoor Adventure: Explore forests and natural areas you'd never otherwise see
👨👩👧👦 All Ages Welcome: Suitable for children to seniors, competitive or
recreational
🌍 Global Community: Events worldwide, great way to explore new places when
traveling
Getting Started
Find a Local Club: Most countries have orienteering federations with local clubs that
welcome beginners
Attend a Beginner Event: Many clubs offer "come and try" sessions with instruction
Start with Easy Courses: Don't rush to advanced courses - build your skills gradually
Practice Map Reading: Study maps at home and compare them to aerial photos
Use Our Simulator: Practice navigation skills without leaving home!
🎮 Practice Orienteering Online!
Our free simulator lets you experience orienteering from your browser. Navigate through 3D terrain, find
controls, and improve your map-reading skills.