Set up Mapbox MCP Server
Set up the Mapbox MCP Server: hosted endpoint or local token, a first test, and sensible limits.
- Skill Road
- Set up Mapbox MCP Server
Published on 30.09.2026
The Mapbox MCP Server gives AI clients such as Claude Code or Cursor access to Mapbox geocoding, routing, and map images. This guide shows the fastest path to a first working connection.
Use the hosted endpoint
The easiest route is the hosted server. In Claude Code, claude mcp add --transport http mapbox https://mcp.mapbox.com/mcp is enough. On first start a browser window opens for the OAuth login at Mapbox, after which the tools are available.
Run locally with an access token
If you want to run the server locally or in a pipeline, create a free Mapbox account, create an access token, and install the npm package @mapbox/mcp-server. Pass the token as the environment variable MAPBOX_ACCESS_TOKEN, never in a prompt or repository. Configuration examples for Claude Desktop, VS Code, Cursor, and Goose are in the official repository.
Test the connection
Start with a harmless request, such as the distance between two cities or geocoding a public address. The distance and area tools compute offline and quickly show whether the server is running.
Set limits deliberately
API tools send addresses and coordinates to Mapbox. Only share confidential customer data after reviewing the privacy terms, and keep an eye on usage in your Mapbox account.
Frequently asked questions
Hosted endpoint or local installation?
For interactive clients the hosted endpoint with OAuth is fastest. A local setup with a token pays off for pipelines, headless agents, or when you want to control the server yourself.
Which tools cause no API calls?
According to the README, the offline geospatial tools such as distance, area, buffer, or polygon operations compute purely locally. Search, routing, and map images use the Mapbox APIs.
Why does my client only show a static map image?
Interactive maps need a client that supports MCP Apps. Other clients fall back to the static map image.
How do I keep costs under control?
Prefer the offline tools where possible and check quotas and usage in your Mapbox account. Mapbox publishes pricing details on its official pricing page.