To open the Instagram Map, follow these steps:

1. Open the Instagram app and go to your Direct Messages (DM) inbox.
2. At the top of the inbox, look for the Map icon in the row of status icons (next to Notes or short posts).
3. Tap the Map icon to open the Instagram Map feature.

This map lets you see friends' locations if they share them, explore location- tagged posts, and discover popular spots. The first time you open the map, you will be guided through the location sharing settings, where you can choose who can see your location or opt out entirely. Additional ways to access the map include tapping location tags in posts or searching for a place using the magnifying glass icon and then selecting "Places" to view the map of that location. Note: Instagram Map requires location permissions enabled for the app and only shares your location if you opt to share it. Your location updates when you open or return to the app. This feature started rolling out in 2025 and may still be rolling out globally.