Quick Answer
For a first playthrough, start with Rito Village. Its reward is useful across the whole map, especially when crossing gaps, moving between sky islands, and recovering from awkward jumps. After that, a steady route is Zora’s Domain, Goron City, then Gerudo Town.
You can clear the four regions in any order. This route simply favors early exploration value and lower friction for new players.
Recommended Order
| Order | Region | Why here | Prep |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rito Village / Hebra | Strong travel value for the rest of the game | Cold resistance food or clothing |
| 2 | Zora’s Domain / Lanayru | Clear route and moderate combat pressure | Arrows, throwable materials, healing meals |
| 3 | Goron City / Eldin | Useful later, but heat and fire ask for prep | Flame protection and rupees |
| 4 | Gerudo Town / Desert | More environmental pressure and tougher route reading | Heat/cold planning and ranged materials |
Why Not Start in the Desert?
The desert asks you to manage temperature, visibility, and combat at the same time. Early in the game, when hearts, armor, arrows, and meals are still limited, that can make the route feel harder than it needs to be.
After Each Region
| After clearing | Check next |
|---|---|
| Rito Village | Return to Lookout Landing, open nearby towers, clear easy shrines |
| Zora’s Domain | Review water routes, caves, wells, and material stops |
| Goron City | Keep flame protection ready and mine for rupees |
| Gerudo Town | Clean up desert shrines and armor upgrade materials |
FAQ
Is this order required?
No. Tears of the Kingdom lets you choose freely. This order is a comfort route, not a rule.
Should I grind shrines first?
You do not need to overprepare, but clearing shrines around Lookout Landing and along your path gives a useful safety margin.
What if I do not own cold gear yet?
Use cold resistance meals first. Buy or complete cold gear once your route and rupee supply are more stable.
Related
- Back to the Tears of the Kingdom site
- Future pages: shrine checklist, Skyview Tower route, armor upgrade materials, Depths route.