If you’re planning a stay in Mallorca, you’ve probably heard about the island’s beauty — and maybe a little about its mosquitoes.
It’s a common question in our community groups: Are there mosquitoes in Mallorca? When are they active? Are they dangerous?
Let’s clear the air (and hopefully your bedroom!) with this guide to Mallorca’s mosquito situation — and how to stay bite-free.
What Types of Mosquitoes Are Found in Mallorca?
Mallorca is home to several types of mosquitoes, but the one that gets the most attention is the Asian Tiger Mosquito (Aedes albopictus). Easily recognizable by its black-and-white striped legs and body, the Tiger Mosquito sounds exotic — and a little scary — but here’s what you need to know:
- It bites during the daytime, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
- It’s more aggressive than local mosquitoes.
- Its bite can cause intense itching and mild swelling.
- It can carry viruses, but serious disease transmission in Mallorca is very rare.
When Is Mosquito Season?
Mosquitoes are mostly active between May and October, with the peak often hitting during humid and warm months, especially after rainfall.
Where on the Island Are Mosquitoes Most Common?
- Near wetlands and standing water: Areas like Albufera Natural Park or rural zones with open irrigation.
- In gardens or poorly drained patios: Even small puddles in flowerpots can attract them.
- Urban areas can also see plenty of mosquitoes if waste water isn’t properly drained.
Want to avoid them? Head for windy coastal areas, higher altitudes, or drier inland locations.
Why Ankles?
Ever noticed mosquitoes seem obsessed with your ankles? It’s not random. The skin around your ankles tends to be thinner and sweatier, and your feet release chemical compounds that attract mosquitoes. Combine that with low airflow and shaded areas — and you’re a walking buffet.
Are They Dangerous?
For most people, mosquitoes in Mallorca are an itchy nuisance, not a health threat. However, Tiger Mosquitoes have been known to carry diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya in other parts of the world — but there’s no current outbreak risk in Mallorca.
Is Anything Being Done?
Yes! Local authorities in Mallorca monitor and reduce mosquito populations, especially the spread of the invasive Tiger Mosquito.
Campaigns focus on:
- Removing standing water in public areas
- Spraying in mosquito-prone zones
- Informing residents about prevention
What Works Against Mosquitoes?
Here’s what locals and frequent visitors recommend:
Citronella Is the Best Anti-Mosquito Remedy in Mallorca
-
Natural Repellent: Citronella oil masks human scents (like sweat and CO₂), making it hard for mosquitoes to find you.
-
Safe and Eco-Friendly: It’s plant-based and non-toxic—great for families, pets, and outdoor use.
-
Perfect for the Climate: Mallorca’s warm, humid evenings help citronella evaporate and spread effectively.
-
Locally Available: Citronella plants, oils, and candles are easy to find and commonly used in homes, restaurants, and terraces.
-
Popular for Outdoor Living: With so much time spent outdoors, citronella candles and sprays are a stylish and effective way to keep mosquitoes away.
More Anti-Mosquito Remedy in Mallorca
- Repellents
- Use one that contains DEET, icaridin (picaridin) or lemon eucalyptus extract. These are effective against Tiger Mosquitoes.
- Mosquito Coils or Essential Oil Incense
- Burning citronella, lavender, or eucalyptus can help keep mosquitoes away — perfect for evenings on the terrace.
- Mosquito Nets
- An old-school but very effective solution for peaceful sleep. Especially useful in rural homes or ground-floor apartments.
- Fans & Air Conditioning
- Mosquitoes aren’t strong fliers. A fan blowing near your bed or table can make it harder for them to land on you.
- Long Sleeves and Light Clothing
- Covering up in the evening is especially helpful if you’re in a high-risk area.
What to Do if You Need Medical Help After a Mosquito Bite in Mallorca
Most mosquito bites are harmless and go away in a few days. However, if you experience severe swelling, allergic reactions, signs of infection (like pus, warmth, or red streaks), or flu-like symptoms, you should seek medical help.
You can:
-
Visit a local pharmacy (“farmacia”) – Pharmacists can give advice and sell creams or antihistamines without a prescription.
-
Go to a public health center (“Centro de Salud”) – Bring your EU health card or travel insurance details.
-
For urgent care, visit the emergency room (“Urgencias”) at the nearest hospital.
-
Call 061 for medical emergencies, but assistance will most likely only be available in Spanish or Catalan. If the situation is critical, call 112 instead, where staff can respond in English and most likely German as well.
Keep the bite clean, don’t scratch, and monitor for unusual symptoms
Sign up for Palmallorca Newsletter – its free
If you want to have access to all content on Palmallorca.com , you are also invited to Sign up for Free Membership here.
