Hello and welcome!

During this course you will learn what you need to become really good at using a map and compass.

The course can be completed by anyone, whether you are in school, a student, a recreational orienteer, a beginner in an orienteering club or an orienteer with some experience. Practice makes perfect — that applies to everyone. The better you get, the more fun orienteering becomes!

The Norwegian Orienteering Federation wants all children, adolescents and adults to have the opportunity to experience joy and mastery in orienteering through outdoor experiences and physical activity.

Being able to use a map is a lifesaving skill. If you can orientate yourself in the forest, in the mountains and in urban areas, you possess basic map‑reading competence. It is both useful and fun!

Throughout the course we give you lots of good advice and a thorough introduction to using a map and compass. You will see lots of maps, aerial photos, animations, videos and activity tips. And not least: Solve tasks to win gold medals! On the final page you will see an overview of which medals you have and which ones you are missing.

For beginners

It is smart to follow the controls in order from number 1 to number 13. Controls 1–5 are level 1, controls 6–9 are level 2, and controls 10–13 are level 3.

For those with experience

Take the controls in the order you prefer. Be aware that they have a natural progression from simple and basic to more advanced.

For everyone

Remember to take breaks from the course. Go outside and try what you have learned. The best way to learn orienteering is outside with a map in your hand. Learn to move safely in both familiar and unfamiliar terrain.

Spend most of your time learning the “language of the map.” The compass is only an aid for map reading, eventually you can practise using one.

Good luck!

Here is an overview of the learning goals for the 13 controls.