Yes, yes, and yes!
The map system is one we've been working on for a long time. We wanted to do something different here than has ever been seen before - something that really speaks to our sandbox-style world, and the ability for players to create original content.
Cartography will be one of the earliest skills available to players. The skill allows you, using in-game tools, to draw/sketch/stencil maps of your area. The higher your cartographic skill, the more precise and high fidelity the tools available to you will become. Then, you can distribute your maps to others for free or for purchase. Likewise, others will be able to take your maps and add additional information to them. (X marks the spot!)
I'm withholding another really cool feature of cartography. I hope you'll forgive me, but when I reveal it, I think it's going to be huge. Stand by for a future dev journal.
As for different tools and materials for regions, that is a given. It's essential to the survival aspects of the game we're going for. Adventurers setting off on a 5-day trek through the desert will need to be prepared. Chap stick required!
-Caspian