San Sebastián is a municipality in Retalhuleu department with a population of 31,244 at 309m elevation (tropical lowlands). The area has a safety score of 5/10 (moderate safety; exercise increased caution), monthly living cost around $400. Key highlights: Traditional Pacific lowlands town, Agricultural community, Coffee and sugarcane. For department-level data, see Retalhuleu. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de San Sebastián 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 Retalhuleu department capital Retalhuleu 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
SanSebastianRet sits at 309m 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
SanSebastianRet 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
SanSebastianRet 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 SanSebastianRet (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
SanSebastianRet 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