Machu Picchu, Peru UV Index in February
The average UV index in Machu Picchu, Peru in February is about 11.4 (Extreme), peaking near 12 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 8 minutes without sunscreen. Avoid direct sun between 10am and 4pm. SPF 50+, full protective clothing, hat and sunglasses are essential.
What is the UV index in Machu Picchu, Peru in February?
Average UV
11.4
Extreme
Midday Peak
12
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
8 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Machu Picchu, Peru in February?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 5 min | up to 150 min |
| Type 2 | 8 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 13 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 21 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 32 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 47 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Machu Picchu, Peru's latitude and typical February 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.
Machu Picchu, Peru UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Machu Picchu, Peru?
Highest: February (about 11.4). Lowest: June (about 10).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11.3 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| February | 11.4 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| March | 11.3 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| April | 10.9 | 12 | Very High | 8 min |
| May | 10.3 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| June | 10 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| July | 10.1 | 12 | Very High | 9 min |
| August | 10.6 | 12 | Very High | 8 min |
| September | 11.1 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| October | 11.4 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| November | 11.3 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
| December | 11.3 | 12 | Extreme | 8 min |
Common questions about UV in Machu Picchu, Peru in February
Do you need sunscreen in Machu Picchu, Peru in February?
Yes. A UV index of 11.4 is Extreme, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Machu Picchu, Peru in February?
Yes, UV of 11.4 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 8 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Machu Picchu, Peru?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 12 in February. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is February a good month to visit Machu Picchu, Peru for the sun?
February averages UV 11.4, compared with a yearly high of 11.4 in February and a low of 10 in June. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 47 minutes at this level.