UV Index in San Cristobal, Peru

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In San Cristobal, Peru, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's tropical highland climate (ET) that can elevate UV exposure. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for protecting oneself from immediate discomfort like sunburn but also for reducing long-term skin health risks. During peak hours—from 10 AM to 2 PM—the UV Index can soar to 14, indicating very high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Being mindful of these levels helps residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while taking necessary precautions against sun damage.

Hourly UV Index in San Cristobal

As the sun rises, the UV Index steadily climbs, starting at a moderate 1 at 07:00 and reaching a significant 14 by 12:00, marking the peak of the day. Between 10:00 and 13:00, UV levels soar, peaking at 13 for a few hours, a reminder to stay protected under the midday sun. However, as the afternoon wanes, the index drops sharply, down to 6 by 15:00, before continuing to decline to 3 at 16:00 and ultimately returning to a safe 0 by 18:00. This data underscores the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours when the risk of UV exposure is at its highest.

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	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in San Cristobal

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently extreme, peaking in January at 22 and remaining high until May, where it starts to lower slightly to 15 in June. The UV Index rises again in September and October, reaching 19 and 20 respectively, before stabilizing into late autumn and winter months. Key high-risk months for sun exposure are January, February, and March, each with a UV Index above 20 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risk of harmful UV radiation effects.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Cristobal, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in San Cristobal 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.

San Cristobal'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
San Cristobal	22	20	21	18	15	13	14	15	18	19	20	20