Convert SVG to KMZ

Understanding svg and kmz file formats

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is an XML-based vector image format widely used for displaying graphics on the web. It supports interactivity and animation, and is ideal for diagrams, maps, and illustrations that need to scale without losing quality.

KMZ is a compressed version of the KML (Keyhole Markup Language) file format, used primarily for displaying geographic data in applications like Google Earth. KMZ files can contain placemarks, paths, polygons, and overlays, along with associated images and resources.

Why convert svg to kmz?

Converting an SVG file to KMZ is useful when you want to display vector graphics, such as custom maps or diagrams, as overlays in geographic applications like Google Earth. This allows for interactive visualization of SVG content in a geospatial context.

How to convert svg to kmz

Direct conversion from SVG to KMZ is not natively supported by most software, but you can achieve this through a two-step process:

1. Convert SVG to KML: Use a tool like MapSVG or QGIS to import your SVG and export it as a KML file. In QGIS, you can use Layer → Add Layer → Add Vector Layer to import SVG, then Project → Import/Export → Export Map to KML.
2. Compress KML to KMZ: Once you have the KML file, compress it into a KMZ file using a standard ZIP utility. Simply zip the KML file and rename the extension from .zip to .kmz.

Best software for svg to kmz conversion

• QGIS: A powerful open-source GIS tool that supports importing SVG and exporting to KML, which can then be zipped to KMZ.
• MapSVG: A web-based tool for converting SVG maps to KML, suitable for simple vector graphics.
• Google Earth Pro: Useful for viewing and verifying the final KMZ file.

Tips for successful conversion

• Ensure your SVG uses simple paths and shapes for better compatibility with KML/KMZ.
• Check the coordinate system and scale to ensure accurate placement in Google Earth.
• Test the KMZ file in Google Earth to verify that all elements display correctly.