If you work with global administrative boundaries—whether for spatial analysis, cartography, or data visualization—you have likely encountered the . As of this writing, GADM version 3.6 is the latest stable release. However, many users struggle not only with locating the correct download link but also with getting the data to "work" properly in their software of choice (QGIS, ArcGIS, R, Python).
The choice between versions depends on your specific needs. GADM 3.6 is an excellent choice for projects requiring stability, compatibility with specific packages, or a detailed snapshot of administrative boundaries as they existed in 2018. Newer versions are preferable when you need the most current boundaries.
| Level | Label | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Country (National) | The highest level, representing national boundaries | | Level 1 | State/Province | Typically represents the first major administrative division (e.g., states, provinces) | | Level 2 | County/District | A finer level of division (e.g., counties, districts) | | Level 3 | Commune/Municipality | A highly detailed level (e.g., communes, municipalities) | | Level 4 | Sub-Municipality | Available for 20 countries, providing the finest level of detail | | Level 5 | Fine Detail | Available for France and Rwanda only |
By following this guide, you can confidently integrate GADM 3.6 data into your next project, unlocking the power of precise, global administrative boundaries.
Once you have downloaded the GADM 3.6 shapefile, you can integrate it into your projects. 1. Loading in QGIS/ArcGIS Extract the downloaded zip folder. Open your GIS software. Drag and drop the .shp file into the mapping canvas.
If you work with global administrative boundaries—whether for spatial analysis, cartography, or data visualization—you have likely encountered the . As of this writing, GADM version 3.6 is the latest stable release. However, many users struggle not only with locating the correct download link but also with getting the data to "work" properly in their software of choice (QGIS, ArcGIS, R, Python).
The choice between versions depends on your specific needs. GADM 3.6 is an excellent choice for projects requiring stability, compatibility with specific packages, or a detailed snapshot of administrative boundaries as they existed in 2018. Newer versions are preferable when you need the most current boundaries. download gadm data version 36 work
| Level | Label | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Country (National) | The highest level, representing national boundaries | | Level 1 | State/Province | Typically represents the first major administrative division (e.g., states, provinces) | | Level 2 | County/District | A finer level of division (e.g., counties, districts) | | Level 3 | Commune/Municipality | A highly detailed level (e.g., communes, municipalities) | | Level 4 | Sub-Municipality | Available for 20 countries, providing the finest level of detail | | Level 5 | Fine Detail | Available for France and Rwanda only | The choice between versions depends on your specific needs
By following this guide, you can confidently integrate GADM 3.6 data into your next project, unlocking the power of precise, global administrative boundaries. | Level | Label | Description | |
Once you have downloaded the GADM 3.6 shapefile, you can integrate it into your projects. 1. Loading in QGIS/ArcGIS Extract the downloaded zip folder. Open your GIS software. Drag and drop the .shp file into the mapping canvas.