UV Index in Machupicchu, Peru

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for anyone exploring the breathtaking heights of Machupicchu, Peru. With its Cfc climate, this iconic destination experiences varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day, peaking at a striking 11 between noon and early afternoon. Being aware of these levels can help prevent painful sunburns and protect your skin health while you marvel at the ancient ruins. As you trek through this stunning landscape, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying your adventure without the harsh aftermath of sun exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Machupicchu

The UV Index today starts off modestly at 1 by 07:00, but as the sun rises higher, it peaks dramatically at 11 between 11:00 and 12:00, indicating a period of high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. At 09:00, it reaches 6, prompting a bit more caution, while 10:00 brings a significant jump to 9. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to decline, dropping to 4 by 15:00 and tapering off to 1 by 17:00. After 18:00, the UV Index falls to 0, ensuring that later in the day, the risk of UV exposure diminishes completely. Stay protected during those 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	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	4	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Machupicchu

The UV Index remains overwhelmingly high throughout the year, peaking at 19 in January, February, November, and consistently remaining in the extreme exposure category each month. This indicates a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes across all months, making sun protection essential for both visitors and residents. The highest risk months include January to April and November, when UV rays are more intense. It is crucial for everyone to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during peak hours to mitigate harmful exposure. Always stay vigilant about UV levels to ensure your safety while enjoying outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Machupicchu, Peru

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

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

Machupicchu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Peru. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Callao UVI	14	14	14	12	10	9	10	11	12	13	14	13
Lima UVI	14	14	14	12	10	9	10	11	12	13	14	13
Trujillo UVI	15	15	15	14	12	11	11	11	13	14	14	14
Chiclayo UVI	14	15	15	14	13	11	11	12	15	14	14	13
Arequipa UVI	18	17	17	15	12	10	11	13	15	17	18	17
Machupicchu	19	19	18	17	14	11	13	14	16	18	19	18