OpenAI launches a search for the lost cities of the Amazon with prizes up to $250,000

OpenAI has announced the start of the exciting “OpenAI to Z Challenge,” aimed at discovering unknown archaeological sites in the Amazon using generative AI. Participants have a unique opportunity to dive into a real archaeological quest, utilizing o3/o4 mini models and GPT-4.1 to analyze open sources — from colonial diaries and satellite images to scientific research and oral traditions of indigenous peoples.

For the first time in history, anyone with Wi-Fi access can try their hand at searching for legendary cities like “The Lost City of Z” and “El Dorado.” OpenAI emphasizes that AI opens new horizons for exploring the history of millions of people who lived and thrived in the Amazon jungles centuries ago.

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The organizers have provided participants with a list of technical “checkpoints” to help structure the research and get closer to the main goal. Applications will be accepted until midnight on June 29th Eastern Time, and results will be evaluated based on impact, creativity, and reproducibility.

Five finalist teams will showcase their developments live with experts and OpenAI representatives, as well as a guest “mysterious AI leader.” Winners will receive funding to continue their research, a chance to travel to the Amazon, and collaborate with local archaeologists. The top three teams will also share a prize pool of $250,000, $100,000, and $50,000, respectively. For more information and to participate in the competition, follow this link .