What is Wherigo?
Wherigo is a GPS-based game platform that allows geocachers to create location-based adventures. Unlike traditional geocaches, Wherigo cartridges are interactive programs that guide you through zones, present puzzles, and reveal coordinates dynamically.
Key Concepts
- Cartridge: The downloadable program file (.gwc or .gwz)
- Zones: GPS-defined areas that trigger events when entered
- Characters: NPCs you interact with during the adventure
- Items: Virtual objects you collect and use
- Tasks: Objectives to complete
Equipment You Need
Mobile Apps
- • WheriGo (iOS) - Official app
- • Wherigo (Android) - Multiple options available
- • Cachly (iOS) - Includes Wherigo support
GPS Devices
- • Garmin Colorado series
- • Garmin Oregon series
- • Some newer Garmin handhelds
Pro Tip: Smartphones are generally more reliable for Wherigo due to better screens and processing power. Download the cartridge before going to the field in case of poor signal.
Common Wherigo Puzzle Types
Zone-Based Puzzles
You must physically enter specific zones to trigger clues or unlock the next stage.
Strategy: Study the cartridge beforehand to understand zone locations and required order.
Question & Answer
Answer questions based on information found at locations or general knowledge.
Strategy: Take photos of signs, plaques, and information boards at each location.
Item Collection
Collect virtual items by visiting zones and use them to solve puzzles or unlock areas.
Strategy: Keep track of items in your inventory and read item descriptions carefully.
Character Interactions
Talk to virtual characters who give clues, ask riddles, or provide items.
Strategy: Exhaust all dialogue options; sometimes clues are hidden in conversation.
Timer Challenges
Complete tasks within a time limit or in a specific sequence.
Strategy: Scout the area first if possible; know your route before starting timed sections.
Logic Puzzles
Solve riddles, ciphers, or mathematical problems within the cartridge.
Strategy: Use CacheHack tools! Many embedded puzzles use standard cipher techniques.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Zone Not Triggering
- • Ensure GPS is accurate (check satellite count)
- • Walk around the zone boundary slowly
- • Try restarting the cartridge
- • Check if you need to complete a prerequisite task first
Cartridge Crashes
- • Clear app cache and restart
- • Re-download the cartridge
- • Try a different Wherigo app
- • Check for cartridge updates
Stuck on a Puzzle
- • Re-read all dialogue and item descriptions
- • Check if you missed a zone or item
- • Look for hints in the cache description
- • Check recent logs for spoiler-free hints
Wrong Final Coordinates
- • Verify all answers were entered correctly
- • Check for typos in coordinate entry
- • Some cartridges have multiple endings
- • Use a coordinate validator
Testing with Emulators
Before heading to the field, you can preview or test cartridges using emulators. This helps you understand the structure and prepare for puzzles.
Urwigo
Windows application that can build and emulate Wherigo cartridges. Allows GPS spoofing for testing.
Wherigo Web Player
Browser-based player for some cartridges. Limited functionality but convenient.
Ethics Note: While emulators can help with preparation, many Wherigo experiences are designed to be enjoyed on-site. Use emulators primarily for troubleshooting or accessibility needs, not to skip the intended adventure.
Advanced: Cartridge Analysis
When truly stuck, you may need to analyze the cartridge file itself. This should be a last resort as it can spoil the experience.
Wherigo Kit / Earwigo
Tools that can decompile .gwc files to readable Lua code or .gwz format.
- • Extract zone coordinates
- • View puzzle solutions
- • Understand cartridge logic
- • Debug problematic cartridges
What to Look For in Code
- ZonePoint: Defines GPS coordinates of zones
- OnEnter/OnExit: Zone trigger events
- ZInput.GetInput: User input prompts (answers nearby)
- Variables: Often contain final coordinates or solutions
Warning: Decompiling should only be used when genuinely stuck or for caches that are known to be broken. Respect the cache owner's work and try to solve it legitimately first.
Pro Tips for Wherigo Success
Download Before You Go: Always download cartridges at home. Cell signal at GZ may be poor.
Bring Backup Power: Wherigo cartridges are battery-intensive. Bring a power bank.
Take Notes: Write down clues, answers, and coordinates as you go.
Save Progress: Many apps allow saving. Save frequently in case of crashes.
Check Attributes: Look for special equipment, time requirements, or seasonal restrictions.
Allow Extra Time: Wherigo caches typically take longer than traditional caches.
Useful Resources
Coordinate Converter
Convert coordinate formats
Coordinate Validator
Verify your coordinates are correct