Aguacatan is a municipality in Huehuetenango department with a population of 56,234 at 1,670m elevation (temperate climate). The area has a safety score of 8/10 (generally safe with normal precautions), monthly living cost around $350. Key highlights: Source of Rio San Juan, Traditional Awakateko Maya culture, Garlic capital of Guatemala. For department-level data, see Huehuetenango. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Aguacatan provides local government services including boleto de ornato (annual municipal tax), IUSI (property tax payments), and basic civil registry services. For national-level procedures such as obtaining a DPI (national ID) at RENAP, tax filings at SAT, or police reports at the PNC departmental headquarters, residents typically travel to Huehuetenango, the capital of Huehuetenango department. For a complete guide to government procedures, visit our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Aguacatan sits at 1,670m elevation in the temperate highlands (tierra templada). Typical temperatures range from 15-25C. Spring-like weather year-round. The most comfortable climate zone — no AC or heating needed.
For current conditions and forecasts, see our weather page.
How to Get There
Aguacatan is approximately 265 km from Guatemala City (7.6 hours drive). The main route goes through Huehuetenango department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q106-186 ($14-24 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Huehuetenango. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Huehuetenango.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q33.22/gal regular in Huehuetenango).
Local Festivals & Ferias
Aguacatan celebrates 4 festivals throughout the year:
- Fiesta de la Virgen de Candelaria (Chiantla) — February 1
- Feria Departamental de Huehuetenango — July 1
- Skach Koyl Horse Race (Todos Santos) — November 1
- Fiesta Patronal de la Virgen de la Encarnacion — December 1
Guatemala’s ferias feature traditional dances, marimba music, processions, food stalls, and community celebrations. See our complete ferias calendar for dates across all 337 municipalities.
Local Costs & Services
Key cost data for Aguacatan (Huehuetenango department):
- Monthly budget: $450/month (comfortable single person in Huehuetenango)
- Gas price: Q33.22/gallon regular (Q34.39 premium)
- Internet: 10-30 Mbps available (Tigo/Claro)
- Exchange rate: Check today’s live rate
Compare remittance rates and check the cost of living calculator for detailed budgets.
Safety Overview
Safety score: 8/10 (Safe). Generally safe for visitors. Standard travel precautions apply. Tourist areas are well-patrolled.
Emergency contacts:
- CONRED (disaster): 1566
- Police (PNC): 110
- Fire department: 122
- Ambulance: 128
- Tourist police (PROATUR): 1500
Read our full Guatemala safety guide for department-by-department data.
Explore Huehuetenango Department
Aguacatan is one of the municipalities in Huehuetenango department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Huehuetenango department overview
- Exchange rates — updated daily
- Remittance comparison — find the cheapest way to send money
- Weather forecast — current conditions
- Guatemala safety map — department-by-department