Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes in Curacao: What Travelers Need to Know

Mosquitoes are part of daily life in Curacao, just like sunshine and warm temperatures. While most mosquitoes are harmless, a small number can transmit viruses such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya. With the right knowledge and simple precautions, mosquito bites can be minimized and your stay on the island remains comfortable and safe.

This page gives you a clear overview of mosquitoes in Curacao, when they are most active, and how to protect yourself effectively. Detailed information about Zika and Dengue can be found on dedicated subpages.

Which mosquitoes are found in Curacao

The mosquito species of most concern on the island are:

• Aedes aegypti (Yellow Fever mosquito)
  
• Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger mosquito)

These mosquitoes are recognizable by their black-and-white striped legs. They are active mainly during the daytime and are capable of transmitting Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya.
Only female mosquitoes bite, as they require blood to produce eggs.

Current situation regarding mosquito-borne diseases

• Yellow Fever: No active cases. Vaccination is not required for Curacao.
  
• Dengue: Present in seasonal waves, especially during wetter months.
  
• Zika & Chikungunya: Rare in recent years, with only isolated cases reported.

Local health authorities actively monitor mosquito-borne illnesses, and outbreaks are generally limited and well-managed.

Why visitors often get bitten more than locals

Travelers frequently notice mosquito bites more than residents. This is mainly due to:

• Skin sensitivity differences
  
• Lack of long-term exposure and adaptation
  
• Increased outdoor activity and sun exposure

Locals may still be bitten but often show little or no visible reaction.

When mosquitoes are most active in Curacao

Mosquitoes are present year-round, but activity varies.

Higher activity

• October to December
  
• After short rain showers that create breeding spots
  
  

Lower activity

• January to September
  
• Drier conditions and steady trade winds reduce mosquito numbers
  
  

Mosquitoes are most noticeable:

• Early morning
  
• Late afternoon and evening
  
• Shaded, windless areas

Important:
Aedes mosquitoes that spread Dengue and Zika are daytime biters, not just active at night.

Where mosquitoes thrive - and where they don’t

• Standing water
  
• Warm, humid environments
• Shaded and low-wind areas

Mosquitoes avoid:

• Strong wind and sea breeze
  
• Air-conditioned rooms
  
• Cool, dry indoor environments
  
  

How to Protect Yourself Against Mosquitoes in Curacao

Effective protection comes from combining the right products and habits.

• DEET-based repellents
  DEET offers the strongest and most reliable protection in tropical climates.

Recommended strengths:

• • 30% DEET (suitable for most travelers)
    
  • 40–50% DEET (maximum effectiveness)

Products with less than 30% DEET offer limited protection. Higher than 50% provides no added benefit.

• • Apply sunscreen first, let it absorb, then apply DEET
    
  • Reapply after swimming or heavy sweating
    
  • Avoid use on sunburned or irritated skin
    
  • For children: maximum 30% DEET
    
    

• Picaridin (Icaridin) repellents

     A good alternative for sensitive skin.

• • Odorless
    
  • Less irritating
    
  • Effective, but may need more frequent reapplication
    
    

Additional mosquito protection options

• Mosquito bracelets
  Useful as extra protection, especially for children. Best used alongside repellent.
   
• After-bite treatments 
  Cooling gel, aloe vera, or mild hydrocortisone cream help reduce itching.
  
  
• Mosquito nets
  Highly effective in non-airconditioned rooms.
  
  
• Air-conditioning
  Cold, dry circulating air strongly reduces mosquito presence.
  
  
• Electrical plug-in repellents
  Effective overnight protection for bedrooms.
  
  
• Citronella candles
  Ideal for balconies, patios, and outdoor seating areas in the evening.
  
  
• Mosquito incense sticks (citronella or eucalyptus)
  Great for outdoor dining, terraces, and garden areas.
  
  

• Avoid standing water
  Empty pots, buckets, and containers regularly to prevent breeding.
  
  

Learn more about mosquito-borne illnesses`

For detailed health information, read our dedicated guides:

Zika in Curacao
Dengue in Curacao