UV Index in Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Puerto Ayora, Ecuador, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. As a tropical destination with a BSh climate, inhabitants experience high UV levels, especially around midday when readings can spike to 12. Awareness of these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin protection, allowing everyone to enjoy the beautiful landscapes without compromising their health. With peak UV exposure occurring between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, staying informed helps ensure safe outdoor activities in this stunning Galápagos paradise.

Hourly UV Index in Puerto Ayora

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily, reaching a modest 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it doubles to 2, but the real surge starts at 09:00, where it spikes to 5. The peak arrives at 12:00, hitting an intense 12—a reminder to reap the benefits of sunlight while staying protected. After an afternoon valor of 11 at 13:00, the numbers gradually decrease, settling at 5 by 15:00, and dwindling further to 1 by 17:00. As daylight fades, the UV risk diminishes, concluding with a gentle 0 at 19:00. Be mindful of the sun's power during the day and ensure you enjoy the outdoors safely!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	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 Puerto Ayora

The seasonal UV data reveals consistently high UV Index values, indicating an extreme exposure category year-round, with an overall burn time of only 10 minutes. The high-risk months are January through March, when the UV Index peaks at 14 to 16, posing the greatest threat for sunburn and skin damage. As such, visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. Although the intensity slightly decreases from June to November, with the Index remaining around 12 to 13, precautionary measures should still be upheld throughout the year to ensure skin health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Puerto Ayora 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.

Puerto Ayora's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ecuador. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Guayaquil UVI	14	14	15	14	12	11	10	11	13	13	11	12
Machala UVI	14	14	15	14	12	10	10	11	13	13	12	12
Puerto Ayora	14	15	16	15	14	12	12	12	13	13	12	12
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI	14	15	16	15	14	12	12	12	13	14	12	11
Cuenca UVI	16	17	18	18	16	13	14	14	17	16	15	15
Quito UVI	17	17	19	19	17	14	15	15	17	17	16	14