Published by Garmin
Updated August 4, 2025
A complete mobile trip planning solution for the GPSMAP® 66s/st and Instinct™
Garmin Explore™ is an Android app developed and published by Garmin at Google Play Store on Oct 11, 2018 for Android users. Garmin Explore™ is so popular that it has gained 1000 installs so far and growing.
Garmin Explore™ is an exceptional app that lives up to its promises and offers a wide range of features for outdoor enthusiasts. While it boasts several impressive functionalities, the real value of this app lies in its extensive database of walking trails throughout the UK. No other application can match the vast collection of paths and bridleways that Garmin Explore™ provides. This comprehensive database alone makes the app worth the investment.
Garmin Explore™ stands out from its competitors due to its remarkable collection of walking trails. Users can easily find and explore various routes, even in their local areas, that they may have otherwise missed. The app's intuitive interface makes it incredibly easy to use, allowing users to discover hidden gems and embark on exciting adventures. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply enjoy exploring the outdoors, Garmin Explore™ has got you covered.
Syncing your Garmin device with the Explore app is a breeze, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Users have reported no issues with syncing so far, making it a reliable companion for outdoor activities. While route creation within the app can be slightly complex, it remains entirely doable. One standout feature is the ability to set locations and routes on a blank map, which is a stroke of genius. This unique feature sets Garmin Explore™ apart from other navigation apps.
Garmin Explore™ truly shines when you find yourself in areas with no cell network coverage. This app allows you to navigate without a route, set waypoints, and load routes without requiring a PC. It seamlessly integrates with Garmin devices, such as the Fenix 6 Pro and Instinct, ensuring that you never lose your way, even in the most remote locations.
The app's interface is user-friendly, although some users have mentioned that the buttons are a bit too large and take up too much space on the map. However, the addition of zoom buttons would greatly enhance the overall user experience. Additionally, users have raised concerns about the latest update introducing new permissions, which may need clarification from Garmin.
Garmin Explore™ works flawlessly with various Garmin devices, such as the GPSMAP 66 Series, Instinct, and Fenix 5 Plus. Users have reported that the app syncs perfectly with their watches, allowing them to create waypoints, adjust names and icons, and make the most of their device's features. The ability to download unlimited mapping data to your phone for offline use is a significant advantage, especially considering that the app is free.
While some users have had initial difficulties with the app, such as a white screen issue, these problems can be resolved by enabling all necessary permissions in the Android settings. Once these permissions are granted, Garmin Explore™ works seamlessly, offering an unparalleled experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Garmin Explore™ is an excellent app that caters to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. Its extensive database of walking trails, seamless syncing capabilities, and offline navigation features make it a must-have for anyone who loves exploring the great outdoors. Despite a few minor concerns, Garmin Explore™ remains a top choice for those seeking adventure and a reliable companion for their Garmin devices.
Yes, you can run Garmin Explore™ on PC, but first, you will need emulator software installed on your Windows or MAC, which you can download for free. In the below video, you will find Garmin Explore™ in action. Before you install the emulator, check out the minimum and recommended system requirements to run it seamlessly. They may change depending on which version of the emulator you choose. Therefore, we recommend you download the latest version of the emulator. Below you will find three free Android emulators that we have shortlisted based on their popularity:
Up to date graphics drivers from Microsoft or the chipset vendor.
Storage: 1 GB available under installation path, 1.5GB available hard drive space
Internet: Broadband Internet connection
Regardless of which Android emulator you install, the steps to install, configure, and running the Garmin Explore™ app on PC are the same.
