UV Index in Tulum, Mexico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Tulum, Mexico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for enjoying the stunning beaches while protecting your skin. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes long-term skin health, ensuring you can soak up the sun safely. With Tulum's tropical climate and high UV exposure, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM when values soar to 13, it's essential to monitor these levels. By staying informed, you can enjoy your time in this paradise without compromising your well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Tulum

The UV Index today paints a vivid picture of solar intensity, peaking with maximum readings at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM at an impressive 13, signaling that it's crucial to protect your skin during these hours. The morning hours start off mild, with values of 1 at 7 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 9 AM. As the day progresses, a dramatic surge occurs, reaching 11 by 11 AM and hitting its zenith at 12 PM. Following this peak, the index gradually declines to 9 at 3 PM, before tapering off to 1 by 6 PM, making the late afternoon and evening much safer for outdoor activities. Stay smart and savvy about sun safety, especially during those midday 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	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Tulum

Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, peaking during the spring and summer months. March through October represents the highest risk period, with UV Index values consistently in the extreme category (10-14) and a dangerously low burn time of only 10 minutes. January and February maintain a very high risk, with a UV Index of 8-10 and a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. In contrast, November and December see a reduction in UV exposure, categorized as very high and high, respectively, with burn times extending to 15-25 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Tulum, Mexico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Tulum compares to other major locations across Mexico. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Tulum's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mexico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Tulum	8	10	13	13	13	14	12	12	12	11	9	7
Guadalajara UVI	9	11	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Iztapalapa UVI	10	12	14	15	14	14	14	14	14	12	10	8
Ecatepec de Morelos UVI	10	12	14	15	15	14	14	13	14	12	10	8
Mexico City UVI	10	12	14	15	15	14	14	13	14	12	10	8
Puebla UVI	10	12	14	15	15	15	15	14	14	13	10	9