[1] As seat, the town of Xochistlahuaca is the local government of 103 communities which cover a territory of 430 km2.

It borders the municipalities of Tlacoachistlahuaca and Ometepec with the state of Oaxaca to the south and east.

The seal of the municipality has a flower called a "laja nido" in the center, along with geometric designs which represent the weaving of Amuzgo women.

The largest communities after the seat are Guadalupe Victoria, Los Lirios, El Carmen and Arroyo Grande.

However, most transportation along this road is controlled by a single group of truckers and bus drivers because of the investment needed to by a vehicle.