Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Puerto Maldonado, Peru, where the tropical climate can expose individuals to harmful ultraviolet radiation. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 10 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations is key for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. In this region, where sun exposure risks are elevated, taking proactive measures against UV radiation can make all the difference. Stay informed about the UV Index to enjoy the beauty of Puerto Maldonado while safeguarding your well-being.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a notable peak from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where it reaches a high of 10, indicating very high levels of UV radiation and a strong need for sun protection. This intense sunlight starts to build up at 9:00 AM with a reading of 5, escalating to 8 by 10:00 AM. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines, dropping to 6 at 2:00 PM, followed by a significant decrease back to 3 by 3:00 PM. By the evening, the UV levels return to safe numbers, tapering off to 1 at 4:00 PM and 0 by 6:00 PM, prompting a welcome end to the day’s sun exposure. Always remember to take precautions during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels remain notably high, especially from January to April and during November and December, where the UV Index often reaches extremes, peaking at 15 and 16. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore primarily concentrated between January and April, as well as in November. Visitors and residents alike should take precautions during these months, limiting sun exposure to 10 minutes during the day to avoid serious skin damage. As we move into June and July, while the UV Index drops slightly to 10, the exposure remains very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. It is essential for everyone, especially in high UV months, to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible to safeguard against the intense solar radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Puerto Maldonado | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 |
| 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 |