Mapbox

Overview

Mapbox is a full geospatial platform: vector tiles, static maps, geocoding, directions, search, and more. Every request needs a Mapbox access token (free tier with a monthly request allowance — verified: an invalid token returns 401). The go-to mapping stack for web and mobile apps.

Quick Start

Geocoding (replace YOUR_TOKEN):

curl "https://api.mapbox.com/geocoding/v5/mapbox.places/paris.json?access_token=YOUR_TOKEN"

Static map image:

curl "https://api.mapbox.com/styles/v1/mapbox/streets-v12/static/2.35,48.85,10,0/600x400?access_token=YOUR_TOKEN"

Directions (driving):

curl "https://api.mapbox.com/directions/v5/mapbox/driving/2.35,48.85;2.29,48.87?access_token=YOUR_TOKEN"

Authentication

• Create an account at mapbox.com → dashboard → default public token (or scoped tokens per app).
• Send it as the access_token query parameter.
• Tokens are meant to be embedded in clients (they’re scoped and revocable) — still, scope them per app.

Rate Limits & Notes

• Free tier: 50,000 map loads/month + per-service request limits (geocoding, directions etc.) — check the pricing page.
• The mapbox.places geocoder is the standard forward/reverse geocoding API.
• Static maps, tiles, and styles are separate products with their own endpoints — all token-gated.
• Usage is metered per service; overages need a paid plan.

FAQ

Is Mapbox free? There’s a free tier (50k map loads/month + service allowances); overages are paid.

Do I need a token? Yes — every Mapbox request requires an access token (invalid tokens return 401, verified).

Can I embed the token in a web app? Yes — Mapbox tokens are designed for client use; scope them per app.