Orienteering

Purpose

Orienteering is a navigation challenge where teams use a map and compass to find a series of checkpoints in natural terrain. It develops decision-making under uncertainty, strategic route planning, physical endurance, and team communication. The exercise takes teams out of conference rooms and into nature, creating shared adventure experiences that strengthen bonds.

At a glance

• Group size: 6–40 participants (teams of 3–5)
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
• Facilitation style: Briefing with autonomous execution
• Setting: Outdoors; park, forest, or campus with varied terrain

How to run

1. Brief (10 min): Teach basic map reading and compass use. Explain the scoring system and safety boundaries.
2. Distribute materials (5 min): Each team gets a map, compass, checkpoint list, and a punch card or phone for recording finds.
3. Navigation phase (60 min): Teams navigate autonomously. Set a firm return deadline. Late teams lose points.
4. Scoring and debrief (15 min): Tally checkpoints found. Discuss: How did you choose your route? How did you split decisions? What did uncertainty feel like?

Materials needed

• Orienteering maps (one per team, pre-marked with checkpoints)
• Compasses (one per team)
• Checkpoint markers (flags, stamps, or QR codes)
• Punch cards or smartphone app for recording
• First aid kit
• Communication devices (phones, radios) for safety

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Area too large: Keep the course within safe boundaries and a 60-minute walking radius.
• No safety plan: Establish boundaries, buddy system, and check-in protocol. Have an emergency contact plan.
• Insufficient map training: A 5-minute refresher prevents frustration. Not everyone has used a compass.
• All checkpoints too easy or too hard: Mix difficulty levels. Include some quick wins near the start.

Inclusion & accessibility

• Offer routes with varying difficulty, including wheelchair-accessible paths.
• Ensure teams include a mix of fitness levels and assign roles (navigator, pace-setter, spotter).
• Provide water, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate gear reminders.

Variations

• Score Orienteering: Checkpoints have different point values. Teams choose which to pursue within the time limit.
• Photo Orienteering: Instead of physical checkpoints, teams must photograph specific features described on their list.
• Night Orienteering: Conducted at dusk or dark with headlamps. Dramatically changes the experience.

When NOT to use this

• In extreme weather (heat, storms, dense fog).
• Without adequate safety provisions and communication devices.
• When the terrain presents genuine hazards (cliffs, deep water, dangerous wildlife).
• With groups that include individuals unable to walk moderate distances without alternatives.

Source & further reading

• International Orienteering Federation. Guidelines for event organisation.
• McNeill, C., Cory-Wright, J., and Renfrew, T. (2006). Teaching Orienteering. Human Kinetics.