Retalhuleu is a municipality in Retalhuleu department with a population of 112,894 at 239m elevation (tropical lowlands). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $500. Key highlights: Department capital with full services, Gateway to Xetulul and Xocomil parks, Colonial architecture in town center. For department-level data, see Retalhuleu. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
Retalhuleu is the capital of Retalhuleu department, so all major government offices are located here:
- Municipalidad de Retalhuleu – boleto de ornato (annual residence tax), IUSI (property tax), construction permits, and municipal business licenses
- 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
RetalhuleuCity sits at 239m 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
RetalhuleuCity is approximately 190 km from Guatemala City (5.4 hours drive). The main route goes through Retalhuleu department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q76-133 ($10-17 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Retalhuleu. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Retalhuleu.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q31.72/gal regular in Retalhuleu).
Local Festivals & Ferias
RetalhuleuCity celebrates 4 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de San Sebastián — January 1
- Feria de Champerico (San José) — March 1
- Feria de San Martín Zapotitlán — November 1
- Feria de Retalhuleu (Immaculate Conception) — 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 RetalhuleuCity (Retalhuleu department):
- Monthly budget: $500/month (comfortable single person in Retalhuleu)
- Gas price: Q31.72/gallon regular (Q32.84 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 Retalhuleu Department
RetalhuleuCity is one of the municipalities in Retalhuleu department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Retalhuleu 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