Quesada is a municipality in Jutiapa department with a population of 22,000 at 974m elevation (temperate climate). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $550. Key highlights: Active community activism (anti-mining), Agricultural highland town, Traditional dairy farming. For department-level data, see Jutiapa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Quesada handles local government services including boleto de ornato (annual residence tax), IUSI (property tax), construction permits, and municipal business licenses.
For national government services, the Jutiapa department capital Jutiapa has the nearest offices for:
- RENAP – DPI (cedula/national ID), birth certificates, marriage records
- SAT – NIT (tax ID), fiscal registration, import/export paperwork
- PNC – police services, reports, background checks
For step-by-step instructions on any government procedure, see our complete tramites guide.
Climate & Weather
Quesada sits at 974m 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
Quesada is approximately 120 km from Guatemala City (3.4 hours drive). The main route goes through Jutiapa department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q48-84 ($6-11 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Jutiapa. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Jutiapa.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q32.14/gal regular in Jutiapa).
Local Festivals & Ferias
Quesada celebrates 5 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de Jutiapa (San Cristóbal) — July 1
- Feria de Asunción Mita (Virgen de Asunción) — August 1
- Feria de Moyuta (Natividad de la Virgen) — September 1
- Feria de la Virgen del Rosario — October 1
- Feria de Asunción Mita (Virgen de 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 Quesada (Jutiapa department):
- Monthly budget: $450/month (comfortable single person in Jutiapa)
- Gas price: Q32.14/gallon regular (Q33.26 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 Jutiapa Department
Quesada is one of the municipalities in Jutiapa department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Jutiapa 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