UV Index in Ngorongoro, Tanzania

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Ngorongoro, Tanzania is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health while enjoying its breathtaking landscapes. With UV levels peaking at 12 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Ngorongoro's Cwb climate brings a unique combination of high altitude and sunshine, presenting increased UV exposure risks even on cloudy days. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can fully embrace the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site while prioritizing your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Ngorongoro

The UV Index for today displays a notable increase, reaching its peak at 12 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day begins, the index starts at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 9:00 AM. A sharp rise occurs by 10:00 AM, hitting 7, before soaring to an intense 10 at 11:00 AM. After the zenith from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, the index gradually declines, dipping to 7 by 3:00 PM, then back down to 4 at 4:00 PM, before closing the day at 0 by 7:00 PM. With such elevated UV levels during the midday hours, it’s crucial to take precautions—seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen to ensure safety while enjoying the outdoors!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Ngorongoro

Throughout the year, UV Index ratings remain alarmingly high, particularly in the first half of the year. January to March demonstrate the highest levels, reaching a peak of 17 in March, categorized as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Although there is a slight decrease in June and July, the index remains at 12, still considered extreme. May through September sees UV Index levels fluctuating between 12 and 14, maintaining a consistent high-risk status through to November. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures year-round, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, hats, and long sleeves, especially during these high-risk months when burn times are critically short.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ngorongoro, Tanzania

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Ngorongoro compares to other major locations across Tanzania. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Ngorongoro's solar exposure compared to other cities in Tanzania. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Zanzibar UVI	14	14	14	14	12	10	10	12	13	13	13	13
Dar es Salaam UVI	14	14	15	14	12	10	10	12	13	13	13	13
Mwanza UVI	14	15	16	15	13	11	11	13	14	13	13	13
Arusha UVI	15	16	16	16	14	12	12	13	14	14	13	14
Mbeya UVI	16	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	14	15
Ngorongoro	16	16	17	16	14	12	12	14	14	14	14	14