Finding map fragments in the base Elden Ring game was generally very simple. But this is absolutely not the case in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, while the first two fragments are easy to find, it is possible to play for dozens of hours without coming across the others. Be aware that the Shadow Realm is a bit like Dark Souls 1, verticality is very important, and a place that seems close is actually inaccessible, unless you take a route that is both long and complex, which even involves crossing optional dungeons. This is why we have drawn the route to follow on the maps below. They are mainly based on the first 2 fragments, which should help you better visualize where to go.
Burial plain
The first map fragment is located near the very first Faded Grace site of the DLC, you should have no trouble finding it. Otherwise, there are some worries to be had for the rest.
Altus occult
Things get complicated, there are two ways to reach this second fragment. A simple path, but requiring to kill a tough boss, and another more complex one but without a fight worthy of the name.
- Cross the large bridge to enter Ensis Keep to the north. Defeat Rellana, Knight of the Two Moons. As you exit, you will see the road with the next Miquella’s Cross, and the map fragment a little further. Follow the red line on the map.
- The alternative is to go down into the gorge instead of entering the dungeon, then cross the swamp, in order to reach a sealed Spirit Spring to unlock. Destroy the pile of rocks nearby to do so. By taking the spring with Torrent, you will land at the back of the Reprimand Keep. From here, you can reach the map to the north quite easily. Follow the blue line on the map from the castle entrance.
South Coast
This third fragment is in the very south of the map. There is only one path leading to it, but you have to find a way down. From the entrance to Ensis Castle, you will have to go down into the river gorge, then down a long series of waterfalls, until you reach an area covered in blue flowers. The underground areas are indicated by dotted lines on the maps.
Ruins of Rauh
This fragment is particularly tricky, since it gives the impression of being close, but it requires a fairly large detour. It is located at the lower level of the region, if you have already reached the black castle, do not expect to reach it via the highlands. Start from the Ruins of Moorth in Occult Altus, then take the tunnel full of Perfumers to the North. Then cross the swamp. Go west to pass under stone arches. Then go down to the South, watch out for the giant’s shots.
Abyss
The very last fragment is by far the hardest to obtain, and it is possible to finish the game without finding it.
- Starting from Occult Altus, follow the road north, in order to reach the Black Castle.
- Enter by taking the elevator, then kill the Golden Hippo boss. Climb the stairs until you reach the second elevator in the castle, which leads to the Seed Tank. Don’t borrow itstay in the zone!
- Instead, borrow theladder to the right of the area, to go down to the water’s edge.
- Enter the tunnel on the left, in order to explore a new section in which there is a Red board. Look for a secret passage on the right wallthis will reveal a Stone coffin which you will have to climb into, you know the rest: climb aboard.
- You will spawn at the back of the Black Castle’s outer area, with a Furnace Golem nearby.
- Follow the river south, you will have to pass several waterfalls, and descend regularly.
- Once at the southernmost point of Altus Occulte, you will discover a minor dungeon: the Catacombs of the Black Light.
- Cross these immense catacombs, until you face the major boss Jori, chief inquisitor.
- Enter the Abyssal Woods, Torrent will knock you down, and refuse to be summoned. There is no need to worry though, the area is not that dangerous. All you have to do is follow the edge of the area, heading southeast, to reach the abandoned church and the map fragment.
Here is a representation of the route to follow on the map. The dotted sections are in dungeons, or underground.
