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General Information

What Is Global Scavenger Hunt?

Imagine a travel competition where the world is your playground, and every destination is a mystery. GSH is the ultimate around-the-world travel adventure, designed to challenge and inspire explorers from all walks of life. Over 23 days, teams of two race across at least ten secret countries, solving scavenger challenges that immerse them in local culture.

This isn’t your typical vacation—it’s an adrenaline-fueled journey that tests your travel instincts, adaptability, and curiosity. Since 2000, GSH has crowned The World’s Greatest Travelers, earning a reputation as the Olympics of travel. It’s an experience that goes beyond sightseeing, pushing you out of your comfort zone and into the heart of the unknown.

If you’re ready for an unparalleled adventure filled with surprises, cultural discovery, and the chance to compete for a free trip around the world, this is your call to action. Are you in?

Is This Just a Race Around the World?

No. GSH is about more than speed. Inspired by European auto rallies, this adventure is a strategic, culture-driven competition.

Each leg varies from a few hours to several days, allowing you to immerse yourself in each location while completing scavenger challenges. Whether navigating a spice market in India, uncovering hidden street art in Saigon, or floating in the Dead Sea, every challenge is designed to deepen your travel experience.

It’s not about how fast you go—it’s about how well you travel.

Will I Know Where I'm Going Beforehand?

Not a chance! The mystery is all part of the adventure. Each destination is kept under wraps, ensuring an authentic, spontaneous experience that challenges your instincts and adaptability.

There’s no itinerary, no advance research, and no time to strategize—only pure, unfiltered discovery. Every team starts fresh, navigating the unknown with resourcefulness and creativity.

If you thrive on surprises, love testing your travel savvy, and crave the thrill of stepping into the unknown, this is your ultimate challenge. Are you ready to embrace the unexpected?

How Is GSH Different from Other Travel Competitions?

GSH is not just another travel competition—it’s a real-world test of exploration, strategy, and cultural engagement. Unlike races that prioritize speed or TV productions that manufacture drama, GSH is an authentic, immersive challenge designed for those who love travel with depth and purpose.

Here’s what sets it apart:

  • A Level Playing Field – No advance route planning, no guidebooks, no pre-trip research. Every team starts fresh with only instincts, adaptability, and resourcefulness to rely on.

  • No Staged Challenges, No Scripted Moments – Every scavenge is designed to engage with real cultures, local people, and unexpected experiences. There are no producers setting up shots—just pure, unscripted adventure.

  • No Eliminations, No Drama – Unlike TV competitions, GSH is about the experience, not the spectacle. All teams complete the journey, and camaraderie is encouraged over cutthroat rivalry.

  • Strategy Over Speed – The competition isn’t about who gets there first. Winning requires smart decision-making, creativity, and cultural curiosity—not just rushing from place to place.

  • Independent, Self-Guided Travel – You won’t be following a set itinerary or being led by a crew. Teams must navigate the unknown, problem-solve on the fly, and embrace the unexpected.

  • A Title That Means Something – GSH is the only travel competition that crowns The World’s Greatest Travelers based on real travel skills, cultural intelligence, and adaptability—not just physical endurance.

Whether you’re racing through the streets of Bangkok, decoding historical clues in Rome, or uncovering hidden traditions in South America, GSH challenges you to experience travel in its purest form. No staged moments, no shortcuts—just the ultimate adventure for those who want to truly explore the world.

Why Travel Like This?

Because life is too short for predictable travel. GSH reignites the magic of discovery, stripping away the stress of planning and replacing it with spontaneity, cultural immersion, and genuine human connection.

Science backs it up—surprise and adventure trigger a deeper emotional response, making experiences richer and more memorable. No over-researched itineraries, no second-guessing, just an adventure where every moment is a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

If you crave excitement, mystery, and the joy of the unexpected, this is your kind of travel.

What About Regional Trips?

In addition to the global adventure, GSH now offers exclusive regional scavenger hunts. These shorter, high-stakes competitions maintain the same spirit of adventure but focus on a single region.

What makes regional trips different?

  • A more focused cultural deep dive

  • A faster-paced competitive format

  • Same high-level scavenger challenges, tailored to the region

If you’re not ready for a full global competition or want to sharpen your travel skills before the big event, a regional scavenger hunt is the perfect way to experience GSH in a more condensed format.

Why Are Destinations Kept Secret?

Because real adventure thrives on the unknown.

In GSH, you won’t know where you’re headed until your next departure. No hints, no research, no time to plan—just pure, unfiltered travel as it was meant to be.

Why the secrecy?

  • It levels the playing field – Every team starts from the same point: zero knowledge. No pre-trip planning, no advantage, just raw travel instincts.
  • It restores the thrill of discovery – Imagine stepping off a plane with no expectations, no itinerary—only the excitement of the unknown.
  • It pushes you to be resourceful – With no time to overanalyze, you’ll trust your instincts, embrace spontaneity, and rely on your own problem-solving skills.

Most people plan every detail of their trips—but GSH isn’t about control; it’s about letting go. You won’t just visit new places; you’ll experience them with fresh eyes, as if for the first time.

If you’re ready to break free from predictable travel and embrace the unexpected, this is your moment. The question is: Can you handle the unknown?

Event Details

When Is the Next Global Scavenger Hunt?

The next Global Scavenger Hunt will take place starting mid April 2026. The best time of year for global exploration, this event guarantees perfect travel conditions across all destinations.

Want in? Apply now and secure your spot before it’s too late.

What’s at Stake? The Ultimate Travel Title & More.

Winning GSH isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s about claiming your place among the world’s best travelers.

  • Global Competition: The winning team is crowned The World’s Greatest Travelers and earns an invitation to a future Global Scavenger Hunt—completely free.
  • Regional Competitions: Regional winners are named Regional Champions and awarded a curated gift package at the final event, celebrating their achievement in style.

Victory comes down to total points earned across the journey. The more scavenges you complete, the more you prove your travel savvy—and the closer you get to the ultimate travel title.

Are you ready to claim your spot at the top?

How Do We Win?

To win, teams must outthink, outmaneuver, and out-travel their competition. You’ll complete scavenges—cultural, physical, and social challenges—each worth varying points. The team with the highest cumulative score at the end of the competition wins it all.

The key to success? Strategy, problem-solving, and adaptability.

How Much Does It Cost to Enter?

Cost-wise, here’s the bottom line:

Global Scavenger Hunt

  • Entry Fee: $15,500 per person
  • Includes:
    • All international airfare to and from our North American departure city.
    • All hotel accommodations for 23 days (based on double occupancy)
    • Approximately 40% of your meals
    • Transportation from each airport to our official hotels
    • At least two major hospitality events—a Bon Voyage Party in our North American departure city and a Winners Gala in our return North American city
    • Two or three on-the-road hospitality events in exotic locales during downtime between legs
    • A pre-departure travel goody box with fun travel-related items and official event gear

Regional Scavenger Hunts

  • Entry Fee: Varies by trip (typically between $7,900 – $9,500 per person)
  • Includes:
    • All international airfare to and from our North American departure city.
    • All hotel accommodations for 23 days (based on double occupancy)
    • Approximately 40% of your meals
    • A pre-departure travel goody box with fun travel-related items and official event gear

Most of our travelers are self-financed, but if you have more will than wallet, we have ideas on how to raise the funds or obtain sponsorship. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

Ready to embark on this incredible journey and compete for the title of The World’s Greatest Travelers? Apply now and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!

What Kind of Scavenges Will We Do?

Here’s a taste of past challenges:

  • Vietnam: Play “Taxi Cab Roulette” by letting a driver take you to their favorite restaurant—order whatever they recommend.

  • Myanmar: Join a pilgrimage to the Golden Rock Pagoda.

  • Gibraltar: Find a viewpoint where you can see three different countries at once.

  • Portugal: Order and review a trio of Portuguese wines.

  • Jordan: Float in the Dead Sea while reading a newspaper.

  • Bangkok: Be the first team to send us a live elephant photo.

Every scavenge is designed to immerse you in the culture, test your creativity, and push you outside your comfort zone.

Can’t Make It This Year? Here’s How to Stay in the Loop.

We get it—timing doesn’t always line up. But if the Global or Regional Scavenger Hunts is on your travel bucket list, you don’t have to miss out completely.

Stay connected by joining our newsletter. Just fill out a quick form on our website, and you’ll be the first to know about:

  • Future event dates (Global & Regional Scavenger Hunts)
  • Exclusive early-access invitations before public registration opens
  • Special announcements & insider updates

Whether it’s next year, two years from now, or whenever the stars align, we’ll make sure you don’t miss your shot. The adventure isn’t going anywhere—but spots always fill fast.

Participation & Eligibility

Who Can Participate With GSH?

GSH is an invitation-only event, but if you’ve got the right mix of curiosity, adaptability, and a passion for travel, you can apply. We’re looking for dynamic two-person teams ready to take on the ultimate adventure—whether that’s best friends, spouses, siblings, parent-child duos, or even complete strangers paired by us.

Since 2000, GSH has welcomed participants from over 60 countries, with past winners hailing from Canada, the USA, New Zealand, Australia, and Belgium. Our travelers range in age from 13 to 80—proving that adventure isn’t about age, but about a mindset.

We don’t care about your job title, zip code, or how many stamps are in your passport. What we do care about? Your openness to new experiences, ability to think on your feet, and enthusiasm for immersing yourself in different cultures.

Think you have what it takes to outmaneuver, outscavenge, and outtravel the competition? Apply now and take the first step toward an unforgettable journey.

What’s the Application Process?

We take applications seriously because GSH isn’t for just anyone—it’s for bold, adventurous travelers who embrace the unknown. Here’s how it works:

  1. Apply Online – Fill out our application and tell us why you’re the perfect fit. Share your travel background, experiences, and what excites you about this challenge.
  2. Initial Screening – Our team reviews your submission and may reach out with a few follow-up questions to better understand your travel style, problem-solving skills, and enthusiasm for the unknown.
  3. Interview – If you advance past the screening, you’ll have a one-on-one interview with our Race Director via Zoom, FaceTime, or phone. This is your chance to ask questions, learn more about the event, and demonstrate that you have the right mindset for this adventure.
  4. Invitation to Compete – If you’re selected, you’ll receive an official invitation and complete the necessary paperwork to confirm your spot.
  5. Get Ready to Go! – With mystery destinations ahead, there’s little you can pre-plan. Just pack smart, bring an open mind, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Each year, we receive hundreds of applications from passionate travelers across the world. Only a select group makes the cut.

Think you have what it takes? Apply now and take your first step toward becoming the next winner.

Can I Apply as a Solo Traveler?

Absolutely! Don’t have a partner? We’ve got you. Every year, we match a select number of solo applicants with like-minded travel companions.

How it works:

  • After processing all applications, we first fill slots with ready-made teams. If space remains, we then match solo applicants with suitable teammates based on personality, travel style, and strategy.
  • About 85% of teams come pre-formed, and 15% are successfully matched by us.
  • Some of our top-performing teams started as strangers!

If you’re open-minded, adaptable, and willing to embrace the unknown, applying solo could lead to a winning partnership.

Note: Entry fees are based on double occupancy, so solo participants must be open to sharing accommodations.

What’s the Physical Demand of the Event?

This isn’t a triathlon or a marathon—but it is an endurance event for your mind and travel skills.

What to expect:

  • Daily activities like city walking tours, cultural experiences, local transport, and scavenger challenges.
  • Some optional activities—kayaking, biking, light hiking, or snorkeling—but nothing extreme.
  • Most participants walk anywhere from 3–10 miles per day, but you control your own pace.

You don’t need to be a gym rat, but you do need to be comfortable moving, thinking on your feet, and handling the occasional sprint to catch a flight.

Our participants range from 13 to 80 years old, and the biggest asset isn’t your physical ability—it’s your adaptability, problem-solving, and team strategy.

Do I Need Prior International Travel Experience?

Not necessarily. If you’ve never left your home country, this might not be your event—but we’ve had plenty of competitors who weren’t seasoned globetrotters.

More important than stamps in your passport?

  • A willingness to adapt
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Curiosity & cultural respect

That said, if you’re new to international travel, consider joining one of our Regional Scavenger Hunts to sharpen your skills before tackling the global event.

Preparation & Requirements

Beyond the Entry Fee: What Additional Expenses Should I Expect?

Your out-of-pocket expenses will depend on your travel style, personal preferences, and the destinations you visit. Here’s what to budget for:

Estimated Daily Costs:

Average Spend: $85 – $120 per team per day

Breakdown of Expenses:

  • Meals & Drinks – Approximately 40% of your meals are covered, but you’ll need to budget for the rest. Your spending will vary depending on whether you prefer street food, casual dining, or fine restaurants. Drinks and extras add up, so plan accordingly.
  • Scavenges & Activities – Every scavenge is designed to be accessible, with a mix of low-cost and premium options so you can choose what fits your budget.
  • Transportation – Public transit is often the most affordable and immersive way to get around.
  • Souvenirs & Personal Indulgences – Want a handcrafted keepsake? A spa treatment? A once-in-a-lifetime experience? These extras vary by destination and personal preference.
  • Miscellaneous Expenses – Budget for tips, laundry, SIM cards, internet, and any unexpected personal needs along the way.

The Thrillionaire Mindset

GSH isn’t about spending the most—it’s about traveling smart, embracing the unknown, and making the most of every moment. Whether you splurge on a bucket-list experience or master the art of budget travel, the adventure is yours to shape.

Plan wisely, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to make every dollar count!

How Do Visas Work for a Mystery Destination Adventure?

We know traveling without a set itinerary raises questions about visas, but don’t worry—we’ve got it covered. Since GSH takes you to undisclosed countries, we streamline the visa process so you can focus on the adventure, not the paperwork.

How It Works:

  • Visas-on-Arrival: For most destinations, we arrange visas ahead of time, ensuring a smooth entry process. You won’t need to stress about pre-trip applications for these countries.
  • Pre-Departure Visas: Some countries, such as Russia or Brazil, require advance visas. If necessary, we’ll notify you well in advance and provide clear guidance on how to obtain them.
  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the event’s end date and contain enough blank pages for visa stamps. If a renewal is needed, plan ahead.
  • Visa Fees: Some visa costs are included in your entry fee, while others may require payment on arrival. We’ll ensure you have all the necessary details beforehand.

Let Us Handle the Details

With experience navigating 94+ countries, we specialize in making international travel seamless. No need to stress about logistics—we’ll take care of the visas while you embrace the journey ahead.

Just bring your passport, your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the unknown.

What About Vaccinations? How Do I Prepare for Health Requirements?

Since GSH takes you to multiple mystery destinations, it’s essential to be proactive about your health and vaccinations. While we’ll provide general health and safety recommendations as the event approaches, your doctor should be your primary resource for personalized advice.

Steps to Prepare:

  • Consult Your Doctor or a Travel Medicine Specialist – Since you won’t know your destinations in advance, discuss a broad range of recommended vaccinations and travel health precautions based on your medical history and potential risks.
  • Stay Up to Date on Routine Vaccines – Ensure you’re current on essential immunizations, including:
    • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
    • Hepatitis A
    • Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td or Tdap)
    • Typhoid/Polio
  • Mosquito-Borne Disease Protection – If you may be traveling to regions where malaria, dengue, or Zika are concerns, your doctor may recommend an anti-malaria regimen. A strong DEET-based insect repellent is also a must.
  • Additional Vaccines – Some travelers opt for vaccines such as cholera (e.g., Dukoral) or yellow fever, depending on potential regions. Your doctor can determine what’s best for you.
  • Pack a Travel Health Kit – Bring any prescription medications you take regularly, plus over-the-counter essentials for pain relief, stomach issues, motion sickness, and minor first aid needs.

Plan Ahead, Travel Confidently

Since global travel regulations and health advisories change, we recommend scheduling your consultation well before departure. With the right preparations, you can focus on the thrill of the journey—knowing your health is covered.

Your adventure awaits. Get ready to explore the world with confidence!

Is Travel Insurance Required?

While not mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended for GSH. This isn’t about playing it safe—it’s about being smart. Unexpected events happen, and having the right coverage ensures that you can focus on the adventure without financial or logistical worries.

Why Travel Insurance Matters:

  • Trip Protection – Covers cancellations, interruptions, and delays, so if life throws a curveball before or during the event, you won’t lose your investment.
  • Medical Coverage – Provides financial protection in case of illness or injury while abroad, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription medications. Emergency evacuations and repatriation are also covered.
  • Baggage & Personal Belongings – Protects against lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and gear, so you’re not left scrambling in a new country.
  • Adventure Coverage – Not all travel insurance policies cover the type of experiences you’ll encounter during GSH. Look for a policy that includes adventure activities and broad international coverage.

How to Choose the Right Policy:

Not all travel insurance is created equal. Make sure your plan includes:

  • Comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency evacuation
  • Protection against cancellations or delays
  • Coverage for personal belongings and baggage
  • High-limit coverage that applies worldwide

If you need guidance, we can help you navigate your options and find a policy that fits your needs.

How Do I Pack When I Don’t Know Where I’m Going?

Packing for a mystery adventure can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you’ll be ready for anything. Whether you're heading out for a short regional challenge or a longer global adventure, the key is to pack light, stay adaptable, and prioritize essentials.

Packing Smart: The Essentials

  • Travel Light – A carry-on roller bag and a small day pack are all you need. If you can’t carry it comfortably, leave it behind.
  • Layering is Key – Pack versatile clothing that can be worn in layers. Choose breathable fabrics for warm climates and add a lightweight jacket for cooler destinations.
  • Weather Awareness – As your departure date approaches, we’ll provide general climate expectations to help you prepare.

Must-Have Items:

  • Clothing

    • Comfortable walking shoes
    • Casual and slightly dressier outfits
    • Lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker
    • Swimsuit (just in case)
    • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
    • Quick-dry travel towel
  • Travel Accessories

    • Reusable water bottle
    • Travel-sized toiletries (stick to carry-on regulations)
    • Power adapter and portable charger
    • Small first aid kit with any necessary prescriptions
    • Insect repellent (high-DEET recommended for tropical areas)
    • Travel pillow and sleep mask
  • Important Documents

    • Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your return date, with blank visa pages)
    • Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, tickets) stored separately from the originals
    • Credit/debit cards with international access and a small amount of local currency for arrival
  • Technology

    • Smartphone, tablet, or lightweight laptop if needed for communication, navigation, or documentation
    • Portable power bank to keep your devices charged on the go

Final Packing Tips

  • Choose multi-purpose items that work across different settings.
  • Leave space for souvenirs or unexpected gear needs along the way.
  • Trust the process—you’ll find what you need as you go.

Closer to departure, we’ll send out additional packing recommendations specific to your event. Until then, pack light, stay flexible, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

Can I Bring and Use My Personal Devices?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring your devices, but GSH is about immersing yourself in the experience, not living through a screen. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

Tech Guidelines for the Journey

  • Stay Connected, But Be Present – Most hotels will have Wi-Fi, and you can use your phone or tablet to check in with family, navigate, or document your travels. However, we encourage you to embrace the adventure without over-relying on technology.

  • Engage With the World – One of the best parts of this journey is trusting strangers in unfamiliar places, asking for directions, and navigating without an app doing the work for you. Consider putting the phone away and letting curiosity guide you.

  • Security First – Keep your devices safe by using hotel safes, avoiding unsecured public Wi-Fi, and ensuring your data is password-protected and encrypted.

  • Power Up – Bring a portable charger and universal adapter. You won’t always know where your next charge will come from, so staying prepared ensures you won’t be left scrambling.

  • Practical Use – Devices are great for capturing memories, handling logistics, and staying in touch, but challenge yourself to rely more on instinct and human connection rather than screens.

Technology can enhance your journey, but the real magic happens when you unplug, look around, and fully engage with the world. Pack your gadgets, but don’t let them distract you from the adventure of a lifetime.

Experience & Impact

How Will GSH Transform Me?

This journey is more than a competition—it’s a shift in perspective. You’ll return not just as a more seasoned traveler but as someone who sees the world through a different lens. The experience cultivates resilience, adaptability, and curiosity, leaving you with newfound confidence, a deep appreciation for cultural differences, and a more adventurous spirit.

What Skills Will I Develop?

The Global Scavenger Hunt is the ultimate test of real-world problem-solving. You’ll refine skills that can’t be learned in a classroom, including:

  • Intercultural Communication – Engage with locals in unfamiliar settings and navigate cultural differences with ease.
  • Strategic Thinking – Plan your time, resources, and challenges wisely to maximize your experience and score.
  • Adaptability – Learn to thrive in unpredictable situations, embracing the unknown with confidence.
  • Teamwork & Creativity – Work with your teammate to solve clues, think on your feet, and immerse yourself in new experiences.

Every challenge pushes you to think differently, move smarter, and travel better.

How Will This Make Me a Better Traveler?

The best travelers aren’t those who have been to the most places—they’re the ones who know how to navigate the world with curiosity, respect, and ingenuity.

Through GSH, you’ll:

  • Learn to trust your instincts in unfamiliar places.
  • Develop a keen eye for hidden gems beyond the tourist trail.
  • Discover how to connect with people across cultures, even without a shared language.
  • Gain the confidence to travel anywhere in the world, regardless of obstacles.

You won’t just see the world—you’ll truly experience it.

How Does GSH Build a Community?

Shared experiences create the strongest bonds, and GSH is full of them. Whether you're swapping stories at an airport, teaming up for a challenge, or celebrating victories at one of our hospitality events, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded explorers who share your passion for adventure.

Many participants stay in touch long after the event ends—some even return together for another round. A few have even met their future spouses through GSH (no divorces yet!).

From lifelong friendships to legendary travel stories, the GSH community is one you’ll be part of forever.

Safety & Logistics

How Does GSH Prioritize Safety?

Your safety is our top priority. Every destination is carefully selected, and all participants receive detailed briefings before each leg of the journey. We maintain emergency protocols, trusted local contacts, and real-time updates to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

Additionally, GSH attracts savvy, independent travelers who bring their own experience and situational awareness to the adventure. While we can’t control every variable, our many successful events spanning over 90 countries prove that safety and adventure go hand in hand.

What Kind of Support Is Available During the Event?

You’re never truly on your own. Throughout the event, participants have access to:

  • Detailed Pre-Trip and On-the-Ground Briefings – We provide insights on cultural norms, logistics, and safety measures for each destination.
  • Dedicated Race Directors – Available to assist with questions, logistics, or unexpected challenges.
  • Local Networks – We maintain relationships with local contacts who can offer on-the-ground insights and assistance.
  • Emergency Support – If the unexpected happens, our team is prepared with contingency plans to help navigate any situation.

The goal is to provide just enough support to keep you safe—while ensuring the adventure remains truly independent and immersive.

 

Will I Be Safe Everywhere We Go?

No one can guarantee complete safety anywhere, but here’s how we manage risk:

  • Unpredictable Routes – With no fixed itinerary, there’s no predictable travel path for anyone to track.
  • Low Profile Travel – No corporate branding or group movements that would attract unwanted attention.
  • Situational Awareness – Our travelers are experienced and adaptable, knowing how to blend in and navigate unfamiliar environments safely.
  • Local Expertise – We leverage local knowledge to make informed decisions and provide real-time updates.
  • Common Sense Precautions – Avoiding high-risk areas, staying vigilant, and respecting local customs all contribute to a safer experience.

Statistically speaking, traveling is safer than staying at home—and with over two decades of incident-free events, we stand by our approach.

What Kind of Travel Experience and Accommodations Can I Expect?

GSH follows our Goldilocks Theory of Travel—not too rugged, not too luxurious, but just right.

  • Comfortable, First-Class Accommodations – Expect 4-star and 5-star hotels with modern amenities. In some destinations, you may stay in heritage hotels, boutique lodgings, or once-in-a-lifetime properties that enhance the local experience.
  • Minimal Luggage, Maximum Freedom – We encourage traveling light—one roller bag and a day pack are all you need.
  • Immersive Activities – Days are filled with hands-on scavenger challenges, cultural encounters, and interactive experiences.
  • Built-in Downtime – While the adventure is non-stop, we ensure time to relax, recharge, and share stories with fellow travelers.

No worrying about where to stay, how to get around, or planning logistics—we handle all of that. You focus on the adventure.

Testimonials & Reviews

What Do Past Participants Say About GSH?

Ask anyone who has joined GSH, and they’ll tell you—it’s not just a trip, it’s a transformative adventure. Here’s why:

  • A Life-Changing Journey – Participants return with a renewed perspective on the world and themselves, discovering new strengths and a deeper connection to global cultures.
  • Authentic Cultural Immersion – Unlike traditional travel, this experience pushes you beyond the tourist track. The scavenges challenge you to interact with locals, explore hidden gems, and see the world through a different lens.
  • Personal Growth – From navigating the unknown to thinking on your feet, every leg of the journey strengthens resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.
  • Unforgettable Memories – Whether it’s sharing a meal with a local family in Vietnam or racing through the streets of Marrakech on a mission, each scavenge becomes a story you’ll never forget.
  • A Global Community – The camaraderie built on this adventure is unmatched. Many participants form lifelong friendships—and, yes, some even find love along the way!

In Their Words:

  • “This was the most exhilarating experience of my life. I came back not just with stories but with a whole new outlook on the world.”
  • “Every day was an adventure. The thrill of not knowing where you’re going next—it’s an adrenaline rush like no other.”
  • “The scavenges made me step out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. I’ve never felt so engaged with a destination.”
  • “I’ve traveled extensively, but nothing compares to the unpredictability and excitement of GSH. I’ll treasure these memories forever.”

GSH is not just about winning—it’s about embracing the journey, expanding your horizons, and rediscovering the magic of travel.

What Does the Media Say About GSH?

From world-class travel publications to major news outlets, GSH has been recognized as one of the most unique and immersive travel competitions out there. Here’s what they’re saying:

  • CNN: "The ultimate adventure for travel enthusiasts. It challenges participants to explore the world in a way that’s both competitive and deeply engaging.”
  • National Geographic Traveler: "An event that restores the magic of travel, pushing adventurers out of their comfort zones and into the heart of diverse cultures.”
  • The New York Times: "A travel competition like no other, The Global Scavenger Hunt combines the thrill of a race with the joy of discovery.”
  • Travel + Leisure: "For those who crave authentic travel experiences and love a challenge, GSH is the perfect blend of spontaneity, exploration, and friendly competition.”
  • Forbes: "The Global Scavenger Hunt transforms ordinary travelers into global explorers. It’s a celebration of curiosity, adventure, and cultural understanding.”
  • Lonely Planet: "If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling the world in a truly unique and immersive way, The Global Scavenger Hunt is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure.”
  • BBC Travel: "This isn’t just a trip; it’s a full-on adventure that tests your travel savvy, resilience, and ability to engage with the world around you.”
  • The Guardian: "A rare opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a true explorer, The Global Scavenger Hunt is an event that every travel enthusiast should experience.”

Year after year, the media recognizes GSH as more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of fearless, immersive, and meaningful travel.

How Does GSH Impact Its Participants?

Many travelers arrive at GSH expecting an adventure. What they don’t expect is how much they’ll grow along the way.

  • Confidence Boosting: Whether it’s navigating a foreign city with no pre-planned route or figuring out how to barter in a local market, you’ll gain a whole new level of travel confidence.
  • Deeper Cultural Awareness: You’ll interact with people across different cultures, learning from them in ways a guidebook never could.
  • Stronger Problem-Solving Skills: No Google Maps, no itinerary—just your instincts, creativity, and resourcefulness to guide you.
  • A Lifetime of Stories: The challenges, the unknown destinations, the surprises—you’ll walk away with experiences that few in the world can say they’ve had.

Some travelers call GSH a “once-in-a-lifetime adventure.” Others? They come back for more. Ready to see how this journey could change the way you travel forever?