Jalapa is a municipality in Jalapa department with a population of 105,796 at 1,362m elevation (temperate climate). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $700. Key highlights: Department capital in pleasant highland valley, Gateway to Volcán Jumay and hot springs, Good market and commercial center. For department-level data, see Jalapa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
As the capital of Jalapa department, Jalapa has a full complement of government offices. The Municipalidad handles local services including boleto de ornato and IUSI property tax. National agencies such as RENAP (DPI and birth certificates), SAT (tax office), and PNC are all present in the city. The Gobernacion Departamental coordinates regional government services. For step-by-step guides on common procedures, see our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
JalapaCab sits at 1,362m 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.
How to Get There
JalapaCab is approximately 100 km from Guatemala City (2.9 hours drive). The main route goes through Jalapa department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q40-70 ($5-9 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Jalapa. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Jalapa.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q32.33/gal regular in Jalapa).
Local Festivals & Ferias
JalapaCab celebrates 4 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de San Pedro Pinula (San Pedro Apóstol) — June 1
- Feria de la Virgen del Carmen (Jalapa) — September 1
- Feria de Mataquescuintla (San Miguel Arcángel) — September 1
- Feria de Monjas (Inmaculada 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 JalapaCab (Jalapa department):
- Monthly budget: $400/month (comfortable single person in Jalapa)
- Gas price: Q32.33/gallon regular (Q33.46 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 Jalapa Department
JalapaCab is one of the municipalities in Jalapa department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Jalapa 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