Atescatempa is a municipality in Jutiapa department with a population of 18,000 at 600m elevation (tropical lowlands). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $500. Key highlights: Agricultural town near El Salvador border, Former lake (now dry — Laguna de Atescatempa), Cattle and corn farming. For department-level data, see Jutiapa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Atescatempa 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 Jutiapa, the capital of Jutiapa department. For a complete guide to government procedures, visit our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Atescatempa sits at 600m elevation in the tropical lowlands (tierra caliente). Typical temperatures range from 25-38C. Hot and humid year-round. AC recommended. Rainy season (May-Oct) brings heavy afternoon showers.
For current conditions and forecasts, see our weather page.
How to Get There
Atescatempa is approximately 120 km from Guatemala City (3.4 hours drive). The main route goes through Jutiapa department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q48-84 ($6-11 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Jutiapa. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Jutiapa.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q32.14/gal regular in Jutiapa).
Local Festivals & Ferias
Atescatempa celebrates 5 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de Jutiapa (San Cristóbal) — July 1
- Feria de Asunción Mita (Virgen de Asunción) — August 1
- Feria de Moyuta (Natividad de la Virgen) — September 1
- Feria de Santa Teresa de Jesús — October 1
- Feria de Asunción Mita (Virgen de Concepción) — 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 Atescatempa (Jutiapa department):
- Monthly budget: $450/month (comfortable single person in Jutiapa)
- Gas price: Q32.14/gallon regular (Q33.26 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: 5/10 (Average). Exercise normal precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in markets and bus terminals.
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 Jutiapa Department
Atescatempa is one of the municipalities in Jutiapa department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Jutiapa 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