Mataquescuintla is a municipality in Jalapa department with a population of 41,011 at 1,800m elevation (cool highlands). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $600. Key highlights: Cool highland climate at 1,800m, Coffee and agriculture region, Strong community activism (anti-mining). For department-level data, see Jalapa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Mataquescuintla 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 Jalapa, the capital of Jalapa department. For a complete guide to government procedures, visit our tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Mataquescuintla sits at 1,800m elevation in the temperate highlands (tierra templada). Typical temperatures range from 15-25C. Spring-like weather year-round. The most comfortable climate zone — no AC or heating needed.
For current conditions and forecasts, see our weather page.
How to Get There
Mataquescuintla 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
Mataquescuintla celebrates 5 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 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 Mataquescuintla (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
Mataquescuintla 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