UV Index in Guayaquil, Ecuador

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Guayaquil, Ecuador, where the sun shines brightly in an Aw climate zone. Awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, as prolonged exposure can lead to serious skin conditions. With the UV Index peaking at 11 during midday—a level categorized as extreme—it’s vital to recognize the risks associated with the region’s typical high UV exposure. Staying informed allows individuals to take necessary precautions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under Guayaquil's radiant sun.

Hourly UV Index in Guayaquil

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern, peaking sharply during midday hours. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun rises, it climbs to 2 at 08:00 and rapidly escalates to 4 by 09:00. By 10:00, the intensity reaches 7, but the real intensity hits at 12:00 with a maximum of 11, signifying a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Though it dips slightly to 10 at 13:00, the index begins to retreat, dropping to 8 at 14:00, followed by a more gradual decrease to 5 at 15:00. As the sun sets, the index falls to 3 by 16:00, and then drops to 1 by 17:00, settling at a low 0 by 19:00. This data serves as a vital reminder for sun safety, especially during 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.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	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 Guayaquil

Throughout the year, the UV Index in this region remains notably high, with an extreme exposure category from January to June and during other months as well. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to April, peaking in March with a UV Index of 15, indicating very short burn times of just 10 minutes. In July, the UV Index shifts to very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes, but still posing a significant risk. Visitors and residents should take necessary precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize their risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Guayaquil, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Guayaquil 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.

Guayaquil'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	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
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