Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.KMZ
File Type
Keyhole Markup Language Zipped
Category
Data
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .kmz file format
KMZ files are compressed archives containing a KML (Keyhole Markup Language) file and any supporting files, such as images, icons, and 3D models. KML is an XML-based language used to represent geographic annotations and visualizations in applications like Google Earth, Google Maps, and other geospa…
File extension
.KMZ
File type
Keyhole Markup Language Zipped
Category
Data
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .kmz file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .kmz.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .kmz file?
File extension details and usage information
KMZ files are compressed archives containing a KML (Keyhole Markup Language) file and any supporting files, such as images, icons, and 3D models. KML is an XML-based language used to represent geographic annotations and visualizations in applications like Google Earth, Google Maps, and other geospatial software. The KMZ format allows for easy distribution and sharing of complex geographic data, as all necessary components are packaged into a single, compressed file. When opened, the KMZ file is unzipped, and the KML file is interpreted to display the geographic information, which can include placemarks, polygons, images, 3D models, and descriptive text. KMZ files are commonly used for sharing custom maps, geographic data overlays, and virtual tours. They are essential for visualizing and interacting with geographic information in a user-friendly and portable format. The compression also helps to reduce file size, making it easier to transmit and store large amounts of geographic data.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .kmz files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .kmz files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .kmz file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .kmz file.
Why can't I open a .kmz file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .kmz format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .kmz files
To open a .kmz file, use software that supports this file format.
- Google Earth Pro
- ArcGIS Pro
- QGIS
- Global Mapper
- Marble
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .kmz file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.