UV Index in Otavalo, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Otavalo, Ecuador, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in this region known for its varied climate and high sun exposure. With maximum UV indices soaring up to 14 during midday hours, it’s essential to take precautions, as Otavalo's climate can expose you to intense UV radiation. Whether you're exploring the vibrant markets or enjoying the stunning Andean scenery, keeping an eye on the UV Index will ensure you stay safe under the equatorial sun.

Hourly UV Index in Otavalo

The UV Index exhibits a dynamic pattern throughout the day, peaking at 14 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating high levels of ultraviolet radiation during this time. As the sun climbs, the index rises rapidly from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM to a striking 13 by 11:00 AM, highlighting the increasing need for sun protection. After the peak hours, the index begins to decline, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM and further to 1 by 5:00 PM, before falling to 0 at 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of staying vigilant and protected during the sunniest 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	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	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