How to Get Explorer Maps for Mansions & Monuments

How to Find Ocean Monuments and Mansions Using Explorer Maps

Finding rare structures like Ocean Monuments and Woodland Mansions is a major challenge in Minecraft. These structures are located thousands of blocks away from your spawn point. Searching for them manually is impossible. Fortunately, Cartographer villagers sell maps that lead you directly to these locations. This guide explains how to get and use Explorer Maps.

What Are Explorer Maps?

Explorer Maps are special items sold by Cartographer villagers. When you buy a map, it does not show your current location. Instead, it is a pre-made map that reveals the location of a specific structure. The map will show a white marker indicating where the structure is. You must travel to that location to find it.

Types of Explorer Maps

Cartographers offer different types of explorer maps at different levels:

Ocean Explorer Map: Available from Journeyman level Cartographers. This map leads to an Ocean Monument. Ocean Monuments are underwater structures guarded by Elder Guardians. They contain prismarine blocks and sea lanterns.
Woodland Explorer Map: Available from Master level Cartographers. This map leads to a Woodland Mansion. Mansions are rare structures found in Dark Forests. They contain valuable loot and are inhabited by Illagers.
Trial Explorer Map: Available from Journeyman level Cartographers in newer versions. This map leads to Trial Chambers, which are new structures containing challenges and rewards.

How to Get Explorer Maps

Find a Village: Locate a village and find a Cartographer. They work at Cartography Tables.
Level Up: You cannot buy explorer maps from a Novice or Apprentice. You must trade with the Cartographer to level them up to Journeyman (for Ocean Maps) or Master (for Woodland Maps).
Purchase the Map: Once the villager reaches the required level, they will offer the explorer map for sale. The cost is typically 13-14 emeralds plus a compass.
Use the Map: Hold the map in your hand. It will show a white marker. Follow the marker to find the structure.

Important Notes

One-Time Use: Each map leads to a specific structure. If you destroy the structure, the map becomes useless.
Java Edition Specific: In Java Edition, all copies of a map sold by a specific villager led to the same structure. If you buy multiple maps from the same villager, they will all point to the same location.
Bedrock Edition Specific: In Bedrock Edition, Cartographers in the Nether or End do not offer explorer maps.

Conclusion

Explorer Maps are the only reliable way to find Ocean Monuments and Woodland Mansions. By leveling up a Cartographer villager, you can purchase these maps and easily locate these rare structures. Whether you need prismarine for building or want to challenge the Illagers in a Mansion, Explorer Maps are an essential tool for advanced players.