UV Index in Bogota, Colombia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bogotá, Colombia. With an average elevation of 2,640 meters above sea level, Bogotá experiences intensified UV radiation that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. Knowing the UV levels throughout the day—especially as they peak around midday with values reaching as high as 15—is essential for protecting your skin health. The city's mild, temperate climate means sunny days can be deceivingly dangerous; being aware of the UV Index helps you take adequate sun safety measures, ensuring you enjoy all that Bogotá has to offer while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Bogota

The UV Index data reveals a striking pattern throughout the day. Morning rays begin gently at 07:00 with a UV Index of 1, but by 08:00, it surges to 4. As the sun climbs, exposure becomes increasingly intense, peaking at 12:00 with a critical UV Index of 15—a clear warning to seek shade. The highest reading occurs at 11:00, registering an intense 14, before gradually tapering off to 10 by 14:00. Later in the afternoon, the index declines further, dropping to 6 at 15:00, and finishing the day with a return to safer levels of 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, finally settling at 0 by 19:00. It's a day that reminds us of the importance of sun safety—especially during those midday hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bogota

The UV Index demonstrates a remarkably consistent pattern of extreme exposure levels throughout the year, with values ranging from 13 to 18. The highest risk months—from March to May—see peaks in the UV Index, suggesting a burn time of just 10 minutes during these periods. As a result, both residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures year-round, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during midday hours. Despite minor fluctuations, the elevated UV levels indicate that vigilance against sun exposure remains crucial throughout all months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bogota, Colombia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Bogota. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Bogota, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Bogota UV Index with Other Colombia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bogota compares to other major locations across Colombia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Bogota's solar exposure compared to other cities in Colombia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Barranquilla UVI	11	12	14	14	13	12	13	13	13	13	11	10
Cartagena UVI	11	11	13	15	13	13	12	13	13	13	11	10
Medellin UVI	14	15	17	16	16	14	14	15	14	14	13	12
Cali UVI	15	16	17	17	15	14	14	14	15	14	13	12
Bogota	15	16	18	18	17	15	15	16	15	15	14	13