Barberena is a municipality in Santa Rosa department with a population of 50,000 at 1,050m elevation (temperate climate). The area has a safety score of 4/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $400. Key highlights: On highway from GC, Transit town, Coffee growing. For department-level data, see Santa Rosa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Barberena 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 Cuilapa, the capital of Santa Rosa department. For a complete guide to government procedures, visit our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Barberena sits at 1,050m elevation in the warm transition zone (tierra caliente-templada). Typical temperatures range from 22-32C. Warm days, mild nights. Comfortable but warmer than the highlands.
For current conditions and forecasts, see our weather page.
Local Festivals & Ferias
Barberena celebrates 5 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de Barberena — March 1
- Fiesta de Chiquimulilla — May 1
- Festival de la Tortilla y el Maiz — August 1
- Turtle Release Season — October 1
- Feria de Cuilapa — 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 Barberena (Santa Rosa department):
- Gas price: Q31.98/gallon regular (Q33.1 premium)
- Exchange rate: Check today’s live rate
Compare remittance rates and check the cost of living calculator for detailed budgets.
Safety Overview
Safety score: 4/10 (Below average). Exercise heightened caution. Avoid traveling at night and stay on main roads. Keep valuables out of sight.
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 Santa Rosa Department
Barberena is one of the municipalities in Santa Rosa department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Santa Rosa 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