Santa María Ixhuatán sits at 350m in the tropical transition zone of Santa Rosa department, with a population of 25,000. The climate is warm with moderate humidity (24-30C). Known for xinka heritage and pacific lowlands, it is part of one of Guatemala’s developing regions.
Safety & Connectivity: With a safety score of 4/10 (concerning), be vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, use Uber. Main concerns: hot, remote, very basic services. Internet is limited. 4G coverage is spotty. Plan for intermittent connectivity. Check our internet guide for detailed ISP coverage.
Cost of Living: Monthly costs range from $227 (budget) to $350 (comfortable) to $630+ (luxury). This is affordable compared to other areas in Guatemala. Check today’s exchange rate and our cost of living comparison.
Local Festivals: Feria de Santa María Ixhuatán (November 1) (patron: Virgen Reina de Todos los Santos). Guatemala’s feria season brings parades, live music, food stalls, and traditional dances. See our festivals calendar for dates across all departments.
For department-level data, see Santa Rosa. Check the latest exchange rates and cost of living data.
Climate & Weather
SantaMaríaIxhuatán sits at 350m 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.
Local Festivals & Ferias
SantaMaríaIxhuatán celebrates 4 festivals throughout the year:
- Fiesta de Chiquimulilla — May 1
- Festival de la Tortilla y el Maiz — August 1
- Turtle Release Season — October 1
- Feria de Cuilapa — 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 SantaMaríaIxhuatán (Santa Rosa department):
- Gas price: Q31.98/gallon regular (Q33.1 premium)
- Exchange rate: Check today’s live rate
Compare remittance rates and check the cost of living calculator for detailed budgets.
Safety Overview
Safety score: 4/10 (Below average). Exercise heightened caution. Avoid traveling at night and stay on main roads. Keep valuables out of sight.
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 Santa Rosa Department
SantaMaríaIxhuatán is one of the municipalities in Santa Rosa department. Explore nearby areas and compare data across the region.
Useful links:
- Santa Rosa 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