UV Index in San Ignacio, Costa Rica

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In San Ignacio, Costa Rica, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburns but also plays a significant role in maintaining overall skin health. With a tropical climate that exposes residents and visitors to high UV radiation, particularly during the midday hours when the index can peak at 14, it’s essential to stay informed. By checking the UV Index regularly, you can make smart choices about sun protection, ensuring that your adventures in this beautiful region remain both enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in San Ignacio

The UV Index data for today reveals a dynamic pattern of solar intensity. Starting off at a modest 2 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily, reaching a peak of 14 by 11:00 and 12:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dipping to 8 by 14:00 and falling to 5 by 15:00. By evening, the UV Index drops dramatically to 1 at 17:00, and finally sinks to 0 after 18:00, making the evening hours safe for outdoor activities. Remember to stay protected during those peak 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:005moderate30 min
09:008very high15 min
10:0012extreme10 min
11:0014extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:008very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Ignacio

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking from March to May, with a maximum value of 15 in May, indicating an extreme exposure category and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes throughout these months. January through April also shows high risk, maintaining extreme UV levels consistently. As summer transitions into autumn, the UV Index remains elevated but begins to slightly decrease, hovering around 13 from August to October. Even in late autumn and winter, November and December continue to pose risks with UV indexes of 11 and 10 respectively. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak UV months from March to May to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Ignacio, Costa Rica

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Ignacio. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111314141514141313131110
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for San Ignacio, 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 San Ignacio UV Index with Other Costa Rica Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Ignacio compares to other major locations across Costa Rica. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
San Ignacio's solar exposure compared to other cities in Costa Rica. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Limon UVI121314151413131313141110
Liberia UVI111314141414141313131110
San Ignacio111314141514141313131110
Alajuela UVI121315151414141313141210
San Jose UVI121415161414141414151211
Paraiso UVI131416161515151414151211