Chicacao is a municipality in Suchitepequez department with a population of 68,958 at 600m elevation (tropical lowlands). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $400. Key highlights: Major cacao-producing region, Tz’utujil Maya cultural heritage, Coffee and rubber plantations. For department-level data, see Suchitepequez. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Chicacao 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 Mazatenango, the capital of Suchitepequez department. For a complete guide to government procedures, visit our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Chicacao 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
Chicacao is approximately 165 km from Guatemala City (4.7 hours drive). The main route goes through Suchitepequez department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q66-115 ($9-15 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Suchitepequez. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Suchitepequez.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q31.78/gal regular in Suchitepequez).
Local Festivals & Ferias
Chicacao celebrates 2 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de Chicacao (Virgen del Tránsito) — December 1
- Feria de la Virgen del Tránsito — 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 Chicacao (Suchitepequez department):
- Monthly budget: $450/month (comfortable single person in Suchitepequez)
- Gas price: Q31.78/gallon regular (Q32.9 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 Suchitepequez Department
Chicacao is one of the municipalities in Suchitepequez department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Suchitepequez 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