UV Index in Santa Cruz, Peru

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Santa Cruz, Peru, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can help you take necessary precautions, especially in a region characterized by its tropical highland climate (ET), where sun exposure can be intense. During peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 1 PM, the UV Index often reaches dangerous levels of 11 and 13, significantly increasing the risk of skin damage. By staying informed and adapting your outdoor activities accordingly, you can enjoy the beauty of Santa Cruz while keeping your skin safe and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Santa Cruz

At dawn, the UV Index starts subtly, peaking at 1 by 7:00 AM, but as the sun rises higher, so does the intensity of UV radiation. By 9:00 AM, it jumps to 5, and reaches its zenith around 12:00 PM with an impressive 13—a critical time to seek shade or apply sunscreen. The intensity slightly wanes in the early afternoon, showing 12 at 1:00 PM, then gradually decreases to 9 by 2:00 PM and further down to 3 at 4:00 PM. As the evening sets in, the UV Index drops dramatically, falling to 0 by 6:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of protecting yourself during the midday hours when 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	6	high	25 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	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 Santa Cruz

Throughout the year, UV index levels remain consistently high, with values ranging from 12 to 18, categorizing exposure as extreme. The high-risk months for UV exposure are January through April, where the UV index peaks at 18, leading to a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. May sees a slight decline, but it remains critical with a UV index of 14. As summer months approach, from June to August, the index fluctuates between 12 and 14 but continues to warrant caution. The fall months of September and October see a resurgence in UV levels, returning to 16 and 17, respectively. Thus, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take preventive measures year-round, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Cruz, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Cruz 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.

Santa Cruz'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
Santa Cruz	17	18	18	17	14	12	13	14	16	17	17	16