Free online KMZ to GEOJSON converter

Source format

KMZ is a compressed KML package used for geographic data in mapping and GIS workflows. It is commonly opened by Google Earth, GIS tools, and mapping applications that support KML/KMZ. A KMZ file can contain placemarks, paths, polygons, overlays, styles, and linked resources such as images or icons. It is often used to share map layers, routes, and annotated locations in a compact single file.

Target format

GeoJSON is a widely used JSON-based format for geographic features. It is popular in web mapping, GIS software, and developer workflows because it is easy to read, parse, and integrate with JavaScript and modern APIs. GeoJSON typically stores points, lines, polygons, and feature properties in a structured text format that works well with tools such as Leaflet, Mapbox, QGIS, and many data pipelines.

What changes during conversion

Converting KMZ to GeoJSON usually means extracting the KML data inside the KMZ archive and translating its features into GeoJSON geometry and properties. In most cases, the conversion preserves the geographic shapes and attribute data, but Google Earth styling, icons, image overlays, and other KMZ-specific elements may be lost or simplified. GeoJSON is designed for feature data, not for the full presentation layer used by Google Earth.

How to perform the conversion

The most reliable way to convert KMZ to GeoJSON is to use a desktop GIS tool such as QGIS or a command-line utility such as GDAL. If you want a quick browser-based option, you can also convert the file on 101convert.com for free without installing any software.

Method 1: QGIS

1. Open QGIS.
2. Use Layer → Add Layer → Add Vector Layer and select your .kmz file.
3. If the file loads correctly, right-click the layer in the Layers panel.
4. Choose Export → Save Features As....
5. Set Format to GeoJSON.
6. Choose an output filename such as output.geojson.
7. Confirm the coordinate reference system if needed, then click OK.

Method 2: GDAL command line

If GDAL is installed, you can convert directly with ogr2ogr:

ogr2ogr -f GeoJSON output.geojson input.kmz

If the KMZ contains multiple layers or nested folders, inspect the source first with ogrinfo input.kmz and then convert the relevant layer explicitly if needed.

Method 3: 101convert.com

1. Open the KMZ to GeoJSON converter on 101convert.com.
2. Upload your .kmz file.
3. Start the conversion and download the resulting .geojson file.

Notes on quality and limitations

• KMZ is compressed, so tools must unpack or read the archive before accessing the KML inside.
• GeoJSON does not store all Google Earth styling, icons, overlays, or embedded media.
• Coordinate reference systems should be checked after conversion to ensure the output matches your workflow.
• Large files may convert more slowly in browser-based tools.
• Multiple folders or layers in a KMZ may appear as separate layers or feature groups depending on the converter.

Summary

KMZ to GeoJSON conversion is a practical way to move geographic data from Google Earth into a modern, web-friendly format. For most users, QGIS offers the best balance of ease and control, while GDAL is the best option for advanced or automated workflows. If you prefer not to install software, you can also convert the file on 101convert.com for free.