UV Index in Tarapoto, Peru

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Tarapoto, Peru is essential for protecting your skin and overall health as you enjoy the area's vibrant climate. With an afropical climate, residents and visitors often experience high UV exposure, particularly during midday when the index peaks at a startling 13. This level of UV radiation can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it crucial to stay informed about daily UV levels. By being aware of the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard yourself—ensuring that your time in the sun is as safe as it is enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in Tarapoto

The UV Index reveals a striking pattern throughout the day, peaking dramatically around noon. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily, hitting 3 by 08:00 before surging to 10 at 10:00 and reaching its maximum of 13 at 12:00. This midday high suggests the need for strong sun protection as the intensity begins to wane in the afternoon, dropping to 9 at 14:00 and further declining to a moderate 5 by 15:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index drops sharply to 2 at 16:00 and returns to its morning levels with a 1 at 17:00 and 0 from 18:00 onward. For sun-enthusiasts and safety-conscious individuals alike, the data paints a clear picture: the hours around midday demand the utmost vigilance against UV exposure!

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	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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 Tarapoto

Throughout the year, residents and visitors can expect extreme UV exposure, with the UV Index consistently high, ranging from 11 to 17. The months of January through April see the highest figures, particularly March at a UV Index of 17, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. Although the UV Index slightly decreases during the summer to 11-13, the high-risk months remain January through April. As such, it is crucial for individuals to take precautions year-round, especially during these peak months, by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of skin damage from harmful UV rays.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Tarapoto, Peru

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Tarapoto 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.

Tarapoto'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
Tarapoto	15	16	17	16	13	12	11	13	14	15	14	14
Arequipa UVI	18	17	17	15	12	10	11	13	15	17	18	17