San Juan Cotzal is a municipality in Quiche department with a population of 34,227 at 1,812m elevation (cool highlands). The area has a safety score of 7/10 (generally safe with normal precautions), monthly living cost around $300. Key highlights: Ixil Triangle town, Weaving tradition, Mountain valley. For department-level data, see Quiche. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de San Juan Cotzal 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 Quiche department capital Santa Cruz del Quiche 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
SanJuanCotzal sits at 1,812m 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
SanJuanCotzal is approximately 165 km from Guatemala City (4.7 hours drive). The main route goes through Quiche department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q66-115 ($9-15 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Quiche. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Quiche.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q32.68/gal regular in Quiche).
Local Costs & Services
Key cost data for SanJuanCotzal (Quiche department):
- Monthly budget: $400/month (comfortable single person in Quiche)
- Gas price: Q32.68/gallon regular (Q33.82 premium)
- Internet: limited coverage 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: 7/10 (Generally safe). Generally safe for visitors. Standard travel precautions apply. Tourist areas are well-patrolled.
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 Quiche Department
SanJuanCotzal is one of the municipalities in Quiche department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Quiche 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