Ixchiguán is a municipality in San Marcos department with a population of 25,642 at 3,200m elevation (cool highlands). The area has a safety score of 7/10 (generally safe with normal precautions), monthly living cost around $350. Key highlights: Highest settlement in Central America (3,200m), Unique extreme-altitude community, Traditional Mam Maya life. For department-level data, see San Marcos. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Ixchiguán 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 San Marcos, the capital of San Marcos department. For a complete guide to government procedures, visit our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Ixchiguan sits at 3,200m elevation in the cold highlands (tierra fria). Typical temperatures range from 8-18C. Cool to cold year-round. Frost possible at night. Pack warm layers.
For current conditions and forecasts, see our weather page.
Local Festivals & Ferias
Ixchiguan celebrates 5 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria Nacional de San Marcos — April 1
- Feria de San Pedro Sacatepéquez — June 1
- Feria de Tajumulco — July 1
- Feria de Tacaná (Asunción) — August 1
- Feria de Malacatán (Virgen de Guadalupe) — 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 Ixchiguan (San Marcos department):
- Gas price: Q32.58/gallon regular (Q33.73 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: 7/10 (Generally 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 San Marcos Department
Ixchiguan is one of the municipalities in San Marcos department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- San Marcos 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