San Carlos Alzatate is a municipality in Jalapa department with a population of 18,000 at 1,800m elevation (cool highlands). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $500. Key highlights: Cold highland community, Traditional Poqomam Maya heritage, Pine forest surroundings. For department-level data, see Jalapa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de San Carlos Alzatate 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 Jalapa department capital Jalapa 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
SanCarlosAlzatate 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
SanCarlosAlzatate 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
SanCarlosAlzatate celebrates 4 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 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 SanCarlosAlzatate (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
SanCarlosAlzatate 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