scavenger hunt is a set of tasks disputed between different groups, with the same final objective. The scavenger hunts can be performed by different types of competitions where competitors face various evidences, with obstacles that make tasks difficult.
Initially a gymkhana was an Indian game where participants were mounted on a horse. From the scavenger hunt originated several sports modalities, some of which consist of skill and obstacle tests. Some of these are motor sports, water sports or winter sports.
The scavenger hunts are very popular for children, so they are often organized school scavenger hunts, where different teams play games. Usually each team has its own battle cry. Some of the most popular games are: sack race, foot tied, treasure hunt, catching apple with your mouth, etc.
Competitions can be held to test the physical or mental abilities of the participants, always with a final prize, where the best or the luckiest wins. The scavenger hunts can be organized for different purposes, as part of a party with recreational, or to collect donations for some institution, or solely to reward the competitors.
In the car scavenger hunts, by motorcycle or bicycle, competitors must follow a pre-established course, with a series of obstacles and also as a proof of ability. When car competitions become a sport, they lose their recreational purpose and are called Rally.
In the water scavenger hunts, like those presented on Sílvio Santos' program on the Brazilian Television System (SBT), participants compete in funny and highly difficult tests.
A scavenger hunt can also be held with the aim of raise awareness of a location, on the importance of preserving the environment and natural resources, such as cleaning a beach, mangrove, or other established location.
