UV Index in Vilcabamba, Peru

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Vilcabamba, Peru, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Nestled in a region characterized by its ET (tundra) climate, Vilcabamba experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when the index peaks at a striking 13. With UV levels varying throughout the day, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential for enjoying the bright sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Vilcabamba

The UV Index throughout the day shows a distinct peak in intensity, highlighting the need for sun protection during the midday hours. Starting from a mild gauge of 1 at 7 AM, the index gradually climbs, hitting 5 by 9 AM. The real surge begins at 10 AM, when it skyrockets to 9, peaking at an intense 13 at noon—the most critical time for safeguarding skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually descends, maintaining a moderate 6 by 3 PM before tapering off to 1 by 5 PM, and finally settling at 0 after 6 PM. The fluctuating values underscore the importance of staying vigilant against UV exposure, especially during those hours when the sun 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	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	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	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 Vilcabamba

The UV Index exhibits remarkably high levels throughout the entire year, consistently falling within the extreme exposure category. From January to April, the UV Index remains at 19, posing the highest risk for skin damage with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. May sees a slight decrease to 14, while June to August fluctuates between 12 and 14. However, September marks a resurgence with a UV Index of 16, and October and November follow closely behind at 18. December slightly drops to 17. Given these persistently high UV levels, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take strict precautions during all months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Vilcabamba, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Vilcabamba 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.

Vilcabamba'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
Vilcabamba	19	19	19	17	14	12	13	14	16	18	18	17