Santa María Chiquimula is a municipality in Totonicapan department with a population of 48,000 at 2,100m elevation (cool highlands). The area has a safety score of 7/10 (generally safe with normal precautions), monthly living cost around $500. Key highlights: Large K’iche’ Maya municipality, Traditional highland agriculture, Corn and bean farming region. For department-level data, see Totonicapan. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Municipal Services
The Municipalidad de Santa María Chiquimula 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 Totonicapan department capital Totonicapan 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
SantaMariaChiquimula sits at 2,100m 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
SantaMariaChiquimula is approximately 200 km from Guatemala City (5.7 hours drive). The main route goes through Totonicapan department.
From Guatemala City:
- By bus: Buses depart from the terminal in Zona 4 or Centra Norte. Expect to pay Q80-140 ($10-18 USD).
- By car: Take the main highway through Totonicapan. Road conditions vary; check CONRED for updates.
- By shuttle: Tourist shuttles available from Antigua or Guatemala City to major destinations in Totonicapan.
Check our transportation guide and today’s gas prices (currently Q32.52/gal regular in Totonicapan).
Local Costs & Services
Key cost data for SantaMariaChiquimula (Totonicapan department):
- Monthly budget: $400/month (comfortable single person in Totonicapan)
- Gas price: Q32.52/gallon regular (Q33.66 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: 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 Totonicapan Department
SantaMariaChiquimula is one of the municipalities in Totonicapan department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Totonicapan 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