La Máquina is a municipality in Suchitepequez department with a population of 26,756 at 25m elevation (tropical lowlands). The area has a safety score of 4/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $350. Key highlights: Agrarian reform settlement, Cotton and sugar cane, Pacific coastal lowlands. For department-level data, see Suchitepequez. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de La Máquina 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
LaMaquina sits at 25m 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
LaMaquina 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 Costs & Services
Key cost data for LaMaquina (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: 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 Suchitepequez Department
LaMaquina 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