How do I solve the "The Lost Pilgrimage" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The "Lost Pilgrimage" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a unique and somewhat challenging side quest that requires stealth, patience, and careful observation. This quest is located in the Korok Forest, specifically near the Great Deku Tree. The quest is given by a Korok named Oaki, who challenges you to follow him to a shrine without being detected. If you are spotted, the quest resets, and you must start over. Here is a detailed guide to help you successfully complete this quest.

To begin the quest, speak to Oaki near the Great Deku Tree. He will explain that he is on a pilgrimage to prove himself and asks you to follow him without being seen. The key mechanic here is stealth. You must stay hidden and avoid being detected by Oaki as he moves through the forest. If he turns around and sees you, he will stop and tell you to start over. This means you need to stay out of his line of sight and move quietly.

Before starting the quest, it is helpful to prepare by equipping stealth-enhancing gear. The Stealth Set, which includes the Stealth Mask, Stealth Chest Guard, and Stealth Tights, is ideal for this quest. If you do not have the full set, at least wear pieces that boost your stealth. Additionally, consuming food or elixirs that increase stealth can be beneficial. For example, cooking dishes with Silent Shrooms or Sneaky River Snails will give you a temporary stealth boost.

Once you are ready, begin following Oaki. He will start walking along a path through the forest. The key is to maintain a safe distance and use the environment to your advantage. Stay behind trees, bushes, and other obstacles to remain hidden. Crouch by holding the left stick down to move more quietly and reduce the chances of being detected. Avoid running or making sudden movements, as these can alert Oaki.

As you follow Oaki, he will occasionally stop and look around. When he does this, freeze in place and wait until he starts moving again. If you are too close, he may turn around and spot you. It is crucial to anticipate his movements and adjust your position accordingly. For example, if he stops near a tree, use that tree to block his line of sight.

One common mistake is getting too close to Oaki. It is tempting to stay right behind him, but this increases the risk of being seen. Instead, keep a moderate distance and use the environment to stay hidden. Another mistake is rushing through the quest. Take your time and move carefully. Patience is key to successfully completing this quest.

An advanced technique is to use the environment to your advantage. For example, you can climb trees or rocks to get a better vantage point and plan your movements. This can help you anticipate Oaki's path and avoid being seen. Additionally, using the Sheikah Sensor to track Oaki's movements can be helpful, though this requires having the sensor upgraded to detect NPCs.

If you find the quest too challenging, there is an alternative approach. You can use the Revali's Gale ability, obtained from the Divine Beast Vah Medoh, to gain a high vantage point and glide over Oaki's path. This allows you to bypass much of the stealth requirement, though it requires having completed the Divine Beast quest.

In summary, the "Lost Pilgrimage" shrine quest requires careful stealth and patience. Equip stealth-enhancing gear, use the environment to stay hidden, and maintain a safe distance from Oaki. Avoid common mistakes like getting too close or rushing through the quest. Advanced techniques, such as climbing for a better vantage point or using Revali's Gale, can make the quest easier. With these strategies, you can successfully complete the quest and unlock the hidden shrine.