UV Index in Cuenca, Peru

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Cuenca, Peru, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. Understanding UV levels empowers you to prevent sunburn and safeguard your long-term skin health, especially in a city where high altitudes and vibrant sun exposure can significantly elevate UV risks. With a climate classified as ET, Cuenca experiences varied UV intensity throughout the day—reaching a peak of 14 between noon and 1 PM. Being mindful of these levels can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing potential damage from the sun's rays.

Hourly UV Index in Cuenca

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 5, but the real intensity kicks in at 10:00 AM with a peak of 9. The index soars to its highest point of 14 at 12:00 PM, signaling a need for sun protection. It remains high at 13 until 1:00 PM, then begins a slow descent, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 6 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon fades, the UV Index plummets to 2 at 4:00 PM and finally settles at 0 for the evening, emphasizing the importance of midday vigilance for sun safety.

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	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 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 Cuenca

Throughout the year, UV index levels in this region remain alarmingly high, with a consistent range of 18 to 20, indicating extreme exposure risk. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are January through April, where the UV Index caps at 20 in January and remains above 18 through April, necessitating extreme caution during outdoor activities. Although the UV Index slightly decreases during the summer months of June and July, it remains critically high, fluctuating between 12 and 15. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and to limit sun exposure during peak hours, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM. Always prioritize skin safety to prevent harmful effects of prolonged UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cuenca, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cuenca 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.

Cuenca'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
Cuenca	20	19	19	18	15	12	14	15	17	18	19	18