UV Index in Otavalo, Ecuador

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Otavalo, Ecuador, where the mid-day sun can be particularly intense. With maximum UV levels peaking at 16 around noon, being aware of these levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. The region’s temperate highland climate, characterized by cool evenings and sunny days, often leads many to underestimate the UV exposure risks that can lead to skin damage. Stay informed and protect your skin by monitoring the UV Index as you enjoy the beauty of Otavalo’s vibrant landscapes!

Hourly UV Index in Otavalo

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it increases to 3, signaling the start of a brighter day. The real intensity kicks in at 09:00 with a substantial 7, setting the stage for peak sun exposure. At 10:00, the UV Index reaches a high of 11, while it peaks at an impressive 16 by 12:00, urging sun-seekers to take precautions. Slightly easing, the index drops to 14 at 13:00 and 11 by 14:00, before gradually declining. By late afternoon, conditions cool down with readings of 7 at 15:00 and 3 at 16:00, fading to 1 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index plummets to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of a sun-drenched day. Remember, the sun can be fierce, so protect your skin during the 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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	16	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 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 Otavalo

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, with values peaking from January to April, where it reaches an extreme level of 18. This period signifies the high-risk months, where the recommended burn time is only 10 minutes. Even as the UV Index slightly decreases in June and July to 14, it remains classified as extreme. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, particularly from January to April when the risk of harmful UV exposure is at its maximum. Staying vigilant throughout the year is essential, as even in the lower months, the UV Index remains a concern.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Otavalo, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Otavalo 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.

Otavalo'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
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI	14	15	16	15	14	12	12	12	13	14	12	11
Otavalo	16	17	18	18	16	14	14	15	16	16	14	14
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