Guanagazapa is a municipality in Escuintla department with a population of 17,565 at 345m elevation (tropical lowlands). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $400. Key highlights: Auto Safari Chapín located here, Rural agricultural area, Gateway to wildlife park. For department-level data, see Escuintla. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Guanagazapa 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 Escuintla, the capital of Escuintla department. For a complete guide to government procedures, visit our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Guanagazapa sits at 345m 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
Guanagazapa is approximately 60 km from Guatemala City (90 minutes drive). The main route goes through Escuintla department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q24-42 ($3-5 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Escuintla. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Escuintla.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q31.43/gal regular in Escuintla).
Local Festivals & Ferias
Guanagazapa celebrates 6 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de la Virgen de Candelaria — February 1
- Feria de Puerto San José (San José) — March 1
- Feria de Palín (San Cristóbal) — July 1
- Feria de Iztapa (San Rafael Arcángel) — October 1
- Feria de Escuintla (Immaculate Conception) — 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 Guanagazapa (Escuintla department):
- Monthly budget: $550/month (comfortable single person in Escuintla)
- Gas price: Q31.43/gallon regular (Q32.54 premium)
- Internet: 30-50 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 Escuintla Department
Guanagazapa is one of the municipalities in Escuintla department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Escuintla 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