How to Create GTA-Style Travel Maps

The "GTA Map" style is one of the most requested aesthetics in our community. Characterized by a top-down perspective, high-contrast colors, and a glowing route that "paints" across the screen, it’s a perfect way to introduce a new location in your YouTube videos or Instagram Reels.

Setting the Stage: The Black-and-White Base

To get the look exactly right, you need the right map style.

1. Open the Map Style Selector in the bottom-left corner.
2. Select the Ink or Dark Matter style. This gives you that high-contrast, technical background that makes your data pop.
3. Toggle the projection to Flat (Mercator). While the Globe is great for cinematic flights, the GTA switch works best on a flat, top-down plane.

Drawing the Glow

The secret to the GTA look is the route.

• Use the Route Tool from the center toolbar.
• In the sidebar, set the Stroke Color to a vibrant white or neon blue.
• Most importantly, toggle the Dashed: True option if you want a technical look, or keep it solid and enable Magic Mode highlighting for the destination.

The Camera Switch

The camera should start high, zoom in rapidly, and "land" on your target coordinates.

• Slide 1: High zoom, centric on your starting city.
• Slide 2: Close-up, tilted view of the destination.
• Set the Easing to Late Brake. This ensures the camera moves fast across the map but slows down with a cinematic glide as it reaches the destination.

Ready to export? Make sure to check our guide on Why Mapimator Exports Look Professional to ensure your final MP4 is crisp and professional.