How to make map animations for Reels and Shorts

Vertical video needs a vertical map. Set the scene to 9:16 before you build it, keep the route and labels inside the frame, and export an MP4 that is ready to post on Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts or TikTok.

By the AYK Maps team at AYK Studios, Bengaluru · Updated 2 November 2026

About 5 minutes · Free to try in AYK Maps

Real studio recording: exporting a map video in the browser until it is saved to the library.

Step by step

1

Start from a vertical template or a prompt

Open AYK Maps and start from a 9:16 template such as Night Flight, or type your idea in AI agent. The Guided setup also starts in 9:16.
2

Set the format to 9:16

In the toolbar over the map, open Format and set Aspect ratio to 9:16. Use 4:5 for Instagram feed posts and 1:1 for square.
3

Keep it short and in frame

Aim for 8–15 seconds. Use Animation → Motion → Follow so the camera keeps the route on screen, and keep titles near the top, away from the app buttons at the bottom of Reels and Shorts.
4

Add a hook in the first second

Start with a title card that asks a question (“Why do ships avoid the Red Sea?”) and reveal the answer as the map moves.
5

Export the video

Click Export, stay on Video, and choose Make it on this device or Render in the cloud. The finished MP4 can be downloaded and is also saved to your library (Stock Media → By Me).
6

Make the other sizes

After a 16:9 export, the success screen offers Make the 9:16 version, so one scene can become both a YouTube video and a Short.

Tips

Free exports are 720p with a small badge; paid plans export HD without it.
Exports longer than 16 seconds, and globe scenes, use two export credits.
Post the video with a caption that names the places — it helps people find it in search.

What you can make

Night Flight — a 9:16 flight route made for Reels and Shorts. Open it as a template →

Try it now, free

Start from a 9:16 template

More: Animate a flight path · Examples · All tutorials