Cartago, Costa Rica UV Index in December
The average UV index in Cartago, Costa Rica in December is about 7.3 (High), peaking near 10 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 12 minutes without sunscreen. SPF 30–50 sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are essential. Seek shade between 11am and 3pm.
What is the UV index in Cartago, Costa Rica in December?
Average UV
7.3
High
Midday Peak
10
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
12 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Cartago, Costa Rica in December?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 8 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 2 | 12 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 21 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 33 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 49 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 74 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Cartago, Costa Rica's latitude and typical December 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.
Cartago, Costa Rica UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Cartago, Costa Rica?
Highest: April (about 8.1). Lowest: December (about 7.3).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7.4 | 10.2 | High | 12 min |
| February | 7.7 | 10.6 | High | 12 min |
| March | 8 | 11 | Very High | 11 min |
| April | 8.1 | 11.1 | Very High | 11 min |
| May | 8.1 | 11.1 | Very High | 11 min |
| June | 8 | 11 | Very High | 11 min |
| July | 8 | 11 | Very High | 11 min |
| August | 8.1 | 11.1 | Very High | 11 min |
| September | 8.1 | 11.1 | Very High | 11 min |
| October | 7.9 | 10.9 | High | 11 min |
| November | 7.5 | 10.3 | High | 12 min |
| December | 7.3 | 10 | High | 12 min |
Common questions about UV in Cartago, Costa Rica in December
Do you need sunscreen in Cartago, Costa Rica in December?
Yes. A UV index of 7.3 is High, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Cartago, Costa Rica in December?
Yes, UV of 7.3 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 12 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Cartago, Costa Rica?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 10 in December. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is December a good month to visit Cartago, Costa Rica for the sun?
December averages UV 7.3, compared with a yearly high of 8.1 in April and a low of 7.3 in December. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 74 minutes at this level.