UV Index in Manizales, Colombia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Manizales, Colombia is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the high-altitude climate and an average yearly UV exposure that peaks at midday, residents and visitors alike must be aware of these levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During the day, UV Index readings can soar up to 14, indicating extreme risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. By grasping the significance of UV levels, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while protecting your well-being amidst Manizales’ vibrant yet challenging environment.

Hourly UV Index in Manizales

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, indicating a cautious need for sun protection. The real intensity kicks in by 09:00, reaching 6, and peaks at a striking 14 at 12:00—the hour when the sun is at its zenith. With readings of 13 still prevalent from 11:00 to 13:00, it’s a vital time to stay protected! As afternoon settles in, the UV levels gradually taper off; they dip to 6 by 15:00 and descend further to 3 at 16:00. By evening, the risk diminishes significantly with a return to 1 at 17:00, rounding off the day as twilight approaches with a 0 reading by 19:00. Stay safe in the sun!

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	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	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 Manizales

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels year-round, with particularly high readings from January to May, peaking at 16 in March and April. Throughout the summer months, the index remains consistently high at 14, ensuring a persistent risk of UV exposure. November and December see a slight decrease to 13 and 12, respectively, but the exposure remains in the extreme category. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during all months to avoid sunburn, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, as even brief exposure can lead to skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Manizales, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Manizales 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.

Manizales'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
Manizales	14	15	16	16	15	14	14	14	14	14	13	12
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