UV Index
UV Index
Today's UV index in Atacama, Chile 
will be up to 3.8, indicating a moderate level of sun exposure for the average person. Check our tips for today to make sure you're safe in the sun.
Last checked: 2025-06-01
With a UV index reaching up to 3.8 in Atacama, stay shaded during midday when the sun is strongest; wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses; apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours, even on cloudy days; and be cautious of heightened UV on bright surfaces.
The UV index in Atacama is typically high, often reaching levels above 10, especially during the daytime. This means the sun is very strong there most days.
Atacama has very dry weather year-round because it is a desert. Summers are warm with lots of sun, while winters are cooler but still dry with almost no rain or clouds.
Compared to other parts of Chile and nearby countries, Atacama is one of the driest places on Earth. Neighboring countries like Bolivia and Peru also have high UV levels but more variation in rainfall.
See the UV index hour by hour for Atacama, along with the temperature and how cloudy it is. If the UV level is higher than moderate, it's best to avoid direct sunlight.