UV Index in La Paz, Colombia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In La Paz, Colombia, being mindful of the UV Index is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. Understanding these UV levels can significantly impact your outdoor enjoyment and health, especially in a region known for its high elevation and intense sunlight. With typical UV values peaking at 13 around midday, the risks of overexposure in La Paz’s Aw climate mean that taking precautions is crucial. Knowing when to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying this vibrant city while safeguarding your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in La Paz

The UV Index throughout the day follows a striking pattern, peaking sharply at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a maximum value of 13. As the day begins, the UV levels are quite low, starting at 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. As 9:00 AM rolls around, the intensity escalates to 7, and by 10:00 AM, it reaches a strong 10. The intensity of UV radiation continues to soar, urging caution as it peaks at the midday hours. Following the zenith, the UV index gently descends, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and tapering downwards to 6 by 3:00 PM, before winding down to a mere 1 by 5:00 PM and 0 by 7:00 PM. This highlights the importance of sun protection during the peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

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	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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 La Paz

The UV Index data reveals a pronounced seasonality in UV exposure, with consistently high levels categorized as extreme from January through February, peaking at 15 in March through May, before gradually declining to levels of 11 by November and December. The high-risk months are notably March through May, where the UV Index remains at its highest, emphasizing the need for diligent sun protection. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to limit sun exposure to 10 minutes during these months, wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible to mitigate skin damage. Even in the somewhat lower UV months towards the end of the year, caution is still necessary due to remaining elevated UV levels.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for La Paz, Colombia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in La Paz 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.

La Paz'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
La Paz	12	13	15	15	15	13	13	14	13	14	11	11
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