Import KML map data into Google Earth

To view, analyze, and share Google Earth information, use Keyhole Markup Language (KML) files. These files store geographic data and content related to Google Earth. Learn more about KML files.

Import a file into an existing Earth project

You can import a simple KML or KMZ file from an older version of Google Earth to an existing Earth project. To import the file into an existing Google Earth project:

On your iPhone or iPad, open the Google Earth app .
In the home screen, tap an existing project.
At the bottom, tap More Import KML / KMZ to project.
- To add a file from Google Drive, tap Import from Drive.
- To add a file directly from your device, tap Upload from device.
Select the file you want to import.
To return to the map and open the file, tap Back .

After you select the file you want to import, it’ll automatically be added to the existing Earth project.

Import a file into a new Earth Project

You can import a simple KML or KMZ file from an older version of Google Earth to a new Earth project. To import the file into a new Google Earth project:

On your iPhone or iPad, open the Google Earth app .
At the bottom right, tap New.
- To add a file from Google Drive, tap Import file to project from Drive.
- To add a file directly from your device, tap Import file to project from device.
Select the file you want to import.
To return to the map and open the file, tap Back .

After you select the file you want to import, it’ll automatically create a new project saved in Google Drive.

Open local KML files in Google Earth

You can open a simple KML or KMZ file from an older version of Google Earth as a local KML file. To open local KML files in Google Earth:

On your iPhone or iPad, open the Google Earth app .
At the bottom right, tap New Open local KML file.
Select the KML file you want to open.
To return to the map and open the file, tap Back .

After you select the file you want to open, it’ll automatically save to your local KML files.

Use Google Earth to open KML files

You can find the most simple KML files with Google Earth for Chrome (version 9) or in the Google Earth app on your mobile device.
If you’re unable to find complex KML files, use Google Earth for desktop (version 7), which supports all KML features.

Import this info from KML files

Placemarks, lines/paths, and polygons
Image overlays (ground overlays)
Simple network links
Super-overlays
Simple KML tours without audio

Tips:

Before you import your KML file, apply the appropriate style in the original source. In Google Earth, styling is still feature by feature. Another alternative is to update your file in Google Earth Pro.
To use more complex KML files, use Google Earth Pro for Desktop.
Learn how to use KML features.

Report a problem

If you encounter issues when you import files, tell us about the problem.