UV Index in Panajachel, Guatemala

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Panajachel, Guatemala, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With its tropical highland climate, this vibrant lakeside town experiences varying UV levels that can lead to sunburn or long-term skin damage if precautions aren't taken. The UV Index here can peak at an astonishing 15 around noon, highlighting the importance of being aware of these levels to protect yourself from harmful rays. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful scenery with peace of mind, ensuring that their outdoor adventures in Panajachel are both enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Panajachel

As the sun climbs higher, so does the UV Index, peaking at a striking 15 at noon. Starting off the day at a mild 2 at 07:00, the index steadily rises, reaching 11 by 10:00. By 11:00, it soars to 14, highlighting the intensity of ultraviolet radiation. It's at 12:00 that the UV Index hits its highest point, urging caution for those outdoors. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines to 10 at 14:00, before dipping further to 1 by 17:00. As evening settles in, the UVI drops to 0 by 19:00, signaling that the day’s sunburn risk has passed. Stay protected during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak!

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
07:002low45 min
08:004moderate30 min
09:007high25 min
10:0011extreme10 min
11:0014extreme10 min
12:0015extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Panajachel

The UV Index data indicates a consistent period of extreme UV exposure from January through October, with values peaking at 16 in April. Notably, high-risk months for skin damage are from February to May, corresponding with some of the highest UV readings. In these months, individuals should be particularly cautious, as the burn time is only 10 minutes across all cases during this time. As the summer months progress, while the UV Index remains elevated, there is a slight decrease, with August to October recording values between 14 and 15. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take proactive measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours, to mitigate the risks associated with these extreme UV levels. As December approaches, while the UV Index decreases slightly to 10, the burn time increases to 15 minutes, indicating a marginally lower risk but still necessitating sun protection practices.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Panajachel, Guatemala

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Panajachel. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111315161515151414141110
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Panajachel, 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 Panajachel UV Index with Other Guatemala Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Panajachel compares to other major locations across Guatemala. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Panajachel's solar exposure compared to other cities in Guatemala. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Petapa UVI111314151414141414131010
Villa Nueva UVI111314151414141414131010
Mixco UVI111315151414141414131110
Guatemala City UVI111315151414141414131110
San Juan Sacatepequez UVI111315151414151414131110
Panajachel111315161515151414141110