UV Index in Cuenca, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Cuenca, Ecuador is essential for safeguarding your skin health under the Andean sun. With UV levels peaking in the late morning to early afternoon, awareness of these levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and minimizing long-term skin damage. Cuenca’s mild Cfb climate provides a unique exposure risk—despite its cooler temperatures, the altitude amplifies the sun's intensity. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy outdoor activities while ensuring your skin remains protected and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Cuenca

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 08:00. By mid-morning, it surges to 5 at 09:00 and escalates rapidly, peaking at a blistering 14 at noon. The maximum exposure occurs around 12:00, where caution is crucial, as the index hovers at 14, indicating intense UV radiation. It remains high at 13 by 13:00 before slowly tapering off to 11 at 14:00. The afternoon sees a significant drop, with levels declining to 7 at 15:00 and then plummeting to a safe 1 by 17:00 as daylight fades. Finally, by 19:00, the UV risk nearly vanishes, reaching 0, marking an end to the day's sun 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:008very high15 min
11:0012extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:007high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cuenca

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, indicating extreme exposure risk for visitors and residents. The months of January through April mark the peak with UV Index values reaching 18, followed closely by February and March. Notably, September also sees a spike with an index of 17. The high-risk months for sun exposure are therefore between January and April, and again in September. During these periods, individuals are advised to take precautions by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, as the burn time is only 10 minutes regardless of the month. Awareness and vigilance are essential to safeguard against skin damage throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cuenca, Ecuador

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Cuenca. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161818181513141417161515
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Cuenca, 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 Cuenca UV Index with Other Ecuador Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cuenca compares to other major locations across Ecuador. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Cuenca's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ecuador. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Guayaquil UVI141415141211101113131112
Machala UVI141415141210101113131212
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI141516151412121213141211
Cuenca161718181613141417161515
Quito UVI171719191714151517171614