Coordinates are given for an interesting or unique location, typically with a described object such as an art sculpture, historical landmark or a scenic lookout. Validation for finding a virtual cache generally requires emailing information to the cache owner, and/or to post a picture of yourself with your log. 

From 2005 to 2017, the geocaching website no longer permitted the placement of new caches without a physical container, including virtual and webcam caches (but still allowed new earthcaches and events); however, older caches of these types were grandfathered and will remain available unless they have been archived. In 2017 it was announced that new Reward Virtual caches would randomly be awarded for placement the following year. This has now happened 4 times. 

Currently there are only about 13,000 Virtual caches active throughout the world, but up to 4,000 new ones may be published this year. 

During 2023, Groundspeak announced that they would randomly selected geocachers to receive a Rewards Virtual provided they met the following conditions: 

• They must have had a non-Event geocache published in 2023 that has earned at least 4 Favorite points by December 31, 2023. 
• They must have created their geocaching account before June 13, 2023. 

Here is a link to a list of nearby new Virtual caches: Geocaching.com – My Lists – Virtual Rewards 4.0 – 2024-2025 

We understand that some of the NoVAGO members have received these prestigious rewards and we look forward to adding these new Virtuals to this list as they are published! 

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Other articles by this author…

• Collecting Souvenirs
• Don’t be afraid to reach out to a cache owner.
• GeoWoodstock XIX – 2023 (GC89GMX)
• Help With Mystery Caches