UV Index in Cartagena, Colombia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Cartagena, Colombia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the sun's powerful rays. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health. With its tropical climate and intense solar exposure, especially during midday hours, Cartagena presents unique UV risks that can impact both residents and visitors alike. Regularly checking the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the vibrant city while taking necessary precautions to protect your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Cartagena

The UV Index for the day demonstrates a significant rise and fall in intensity, peaking sharply at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a staggering 13. Early in the morning, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, the index starts low at 1, gradually increasing to 3 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, a rapid escalation occurs, reaching 10 by 10:00 AM and hitting its maximum at noon. After this peak, the index begins to decline, dropping steadily to 9 at 2:00 PM, and later retreating to 1 by 5:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV Index has faded to 0, reminding us of the crucial midday hours to protect our skin from UV exposure.

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	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 Cartagena

The UV Index varies throughout the year, remaining predominantly in the extreme category, particularly from January through November and peaking at 15 in April. March to October consistently shows some of the highest readings, with UV Index values of 13 or more for most months, indicating that April to September are the high-risk months for UV exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. Even in December, when the UV Index is still very high at 10, exposure should be minimized, particularly if you plan to spend extended periods outdoors. Stay aware and prioritize skin safety all year round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cartagena, Colombia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Cartagena. 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 Cartagena, 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 Cartagena UV Index with Other Colombia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cartagena 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.

Cartagena'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	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 UVI	15	16	18	18	17	15	15	16	15	15	14	13