Río Hondo is a municipality in Zacapa department with a population of 18,500 at 280m elevation (tropical lowlands). The area has a safety score of 6/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $650. Key highlights: Water parks and balnearios along highway, Valle Dorado Resort and Water Park, Balneario Pasabien natural pools. For department-level data, see Zacapa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Río Hondo 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 Zacapa department capital Zacapa 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
RioHondo sits at 280m 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
RioHondo is approximately 150 km from Guatemala City (4.3 hours drive). The main route goes through Zacapa department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q60-105 ($8-14 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Zacapa. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Zacapa.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q32.23/gal regular in Zacapa).
Local Festivals & Ferias
RioHondo celebrates 4 festivals throughout the year:
- Feria de Río Hondo — February 1
- Feria de Gualán (Virgen del Rosario) — May 1
- Feria de Estanzuela (Santa Cecilia) — November 1
- Feria de la Virgen de Concepción (Zacapa) — 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 RioHondo (Zacapa department):
- Monthly budget: $500/month (comfortable single person in Zacapa)
- Gas price: Q32.23/gallon regular (Q33.36 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: 6/10 (Moderate). 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 Zacapa Department
RioHondo is one of the municipalities in Zacapa department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Zacapa 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