Yes, you do get mosquitoes in Tenerife, especially in the greener north and after rain, but they are generally less of a problem in the drier, more developed south, though some people still get bitten, particularly near still water like empty pools. They are more common in humid, leafy areas and at certain times of year, but not usually a major issue for most tourists in resort areas, with repellent often recommended for those prone to bites.
The risk for mosquito activity is moderate. Eliminate any standing water on your property where mosquitoes can breed. The risk for mosquito activity is low.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Canary Islands. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
Mosquitoes tend to prefer larger people (both heavier and taller) because they release more carbon dioxide (CO2) and have larger visual targets, but other factors like body heat, lactic acid, sweat, dark clothing, and blood type (Type O) are also major attractants, making it less about being fat versus skinny and more about a combination of these cues. Overweight individuals produce more CO2 and have higher metabolic rates, making them more visible and attractive.
Mosquito bites are the itchy bumps that form on the skin after mosquitoes feed on your blood. The bumps usually go away without treatment in a few days. Some mosquito bites may get very swollen, sore and inflamed.
Mosquitoes can bite through clothing, especially if the material is thin. If possible, use 0.5% permethrin to treat clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents), or buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear ahead of time.
Another way air conditioning helps is by improving air circulation. Mosquitoes are weak fliers, and a steady flow of air can make it difficult for them to hover and settle. This is why fans and air conditioners can work together to keep mosquitoes away from your living space.
As for prevention, there are mosquito nets or electric mosquito diffusers in addition repellents. There are chemical sprays which are effective and widely as well as natural repellents- although they have variable results. Fernandez de Alba told El Pais that tests have shown good results in some natural products.
Sharks. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are one of the few remaining locations with a substantial population of angelsharks. It is quite a common sight while snorkeling. The basking shark, a harmless plankton feeder, visits the island in large groups during the winter, but is rarely seen.
Mosquitoes hate strong, natural scents like citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, rosemary, basil, and catnip, which disrupt their ability to find hosts, with essential oils and plants being common ways to use them as repellents, though DEET-based repellents remain highly effective. Coffee grounds, garlic, tea tree oil, and cinnamon also deter them.
Travel tip: We find that agua de colonia is a great mosquito deterrent, although it's not marketed for this purpose. It's available in the baby section at supermarkets in Spain, it has a lemon fragrance and normally costs under €3 for a large bottle.
Some of the main and well-known diseases included Dengue Fever, Yellow Fever, Malaria and the West Nile Virus. So, where are the worst places in the world for mosquito? It is believed Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand have the highest numbers of mosquito species.
No, the "six-drink rule" in Spain does not apply to the Canary Islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote; it's specific to certain resorts in the Balearic Islands (Majorca and Ibiza). In Tenerife, all-inclusive guests generally aren't subject to these caps on alcohol, though local rules against public intoxication and drinking on beaches (bans on street drinking) do exist.
What is the best part of Tenerife to stay in? The best areas to stay in Tenerife are Costa Adeje for luxury resorts and beaches, Los Cristianos for a lively atmosphere, and Puerto de la Cruz for a more authentic, laid-back experience with scenic views. Each offers a unique holiday vibe catering to different tastes.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. It's most prevalent in larger cities and particularly during holidays, festivals and weekends.
So the less you move, the more likely mosquitoes are to think you're a tree and no good to bite. Of course, if making like a tree isn't your style, you can try to decrease your silhouette. Wearing light colored clothes make you much harder for mosquitoes to see.
It's important to note that while dryer sheets may contain certain chemicals that mosquitoes don't like, they are not effective at repelling mosquitoes long term.
