Image: YLE / Päivi Solja

The popularity of geocaching has been growing fast. Geocaching is a type of real-world outdoor treasure hunting game. Players try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, using GPS-enabled devices and then share their experiences either with other participants or online.

This weekend's Mega Finland 2011 event in Tampere has drawn over 1500 participants, many of them from abroad.

Caches have been hidden around Lake Pyhäjärvi. There are none on the campgrounds itself, but the "treasure" hunters don't have to go far.

"In some direction, just 20 metres from the gate is the first jar. It contains specific information for even a casual finder. The most important thing is that the jar isn't moved," explains Päivi Pyyvaara, one of the organizers of the event.

Electronic aids or not

The hobby of geocaching can be practiced without electronic devices, as well. Some enthusiasts, such as Päivi Pyyvaara, prefer to use a traditional map and she leaves GPS devices to her husband.

"I use a traditional map search. We always have our own little competition. I think it is so much easier and faster to 'start up' maps than it is for my husband to get all his technical devices turned on. And, indeed, I've been beating him at it lately," Pyyvaara laughs.

There are thousands of these caches hidden in Finland. Worldwide there are more than a million.

"A few weeks ago in Scotland we were in wonderful places because of the caches. They're always some catch involved. Every time they can give you a surprise. Great natural and historical sites become familiar in a totally different way because of the caches," Päivi Pyyvaara beams.