Cape Town, South Africa UV Index in March
The average UV index in Cape Town, South Africa in March is about 10.5 (Very High), peaking near 12 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 9 minutes without sunscreen. SPF 50+ sunscreen, protective clothing, hat and sunglasses. Minimise midday sun exposure.
What is the UV index in Cape Town, South Africa in March?
Average UV
10.5
Very High
Midday Peak
12
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
9 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Cape Town, South Africa in March?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 6 min | up to 180 min |
| Type 2 | 9 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 14 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 23 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 34 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 51 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Cape Town, South Africa's latitude and typical March sun angle. Cloud cover, altitude and reflection from water or sand can raise or lower the real UV. Check the live forecast before long days outside.
Cape Town, South Africa UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Cape Town, South Africa?
Highest: January (about 11.4). Lowest: June (about 8).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11.4 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| February | 11.1 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| March | 10.5 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| April | 9.5 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| May | 8.5 | 12 | Very High | 11 min |
| June | 8 | 12 | Very High | 11 min |
| July | 8.2 | 12 | Very High | 11 min |
| August | 9.1 | 12 | Very High | 10 min |
| September | 10.1 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| October | 10.9 | 12 | Very High | 8 min |
| November | 11.3 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| December | 11.4 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
Common questions about UV in Cape Town, South Africa in March
Do you need sunscreen in Cape Town, South Africa in March?
Yes. A UV index of 10.5 is Very High, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Cape Town, South Africa in March?
Yes, UV of 10.5 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 9 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Cape Town, South Africa?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 12 in March. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is March a good month to visit Cape Town, South Africa for the sun?
March averages UV 10.5, compared with a yearly high of 11.4 in January and a low of 8 in June. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 51 minutes at this level.