It’s hard to believe that something so tiny can be so dangerous, but the mosquito has more blood on its wings than any other creature on the planet. In Costa Rica, you’ll encounter several species of mosquito, including the infamous Aedes aegypti, which is known for spreading diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid environments, and here they tend to be most active during the rainy season from May to November, especially around dawn and dusk when they’re out in full force. While they’re less abundant during the dry months, you’ll still find a few persistent ones buzzing about in shady spots near water.
Globally, mosquitoes are responsible for over a million deaths every year, making them the deadliest animals on earth by far. Most of these deaths are caused by malaria, a disease we don’t worry about in Costa Rica, but dengue fever is a real concern. Outbreaks happen from time to time, especially after heavy rains that leave standing water—perfect breeding grounds for these little killers. Besides the diseases they carry, mosquitoes are simply annoying. Their bites itch and swell, and they can put a damper on an otherwise perfect tropical adventure.
The good news is, you can protect yourself. Long sleeves and pants are your best defense, especially in the early mornings and evenings. When it comes to repellents, products with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus have proven to be the most effective. At Casa Roja, we usually have several repellents handy for our guests, but we always encourage you to bring your personal favorite, especially if you have one that works well for you or that you prefer for sensitive skin.
While mosquitoes might be the deadliest animal on earth, they don’t have to ruin your Costa Rican experience. With a little preparation, you’ll be free to enjoy the beauty of the jungle, the river, and the incredible wildlife that makes this place so unforgettable—without becoming part of the mosquito buffet.
