Mosquitoes in French Guiana: species, diseases and protection in the Amazon rainforest

French Guiana is a unique French territory: 90% of its surface area is covered by the Amazon rainforest, one of the richest and densest on the planet. This exceptional biodiversity comes with an equally remarkable entomological fauna — including mosquito species found nowhere else in the French world, neither in Martinique, Guadeloupe, nor mainland France.

Understanding the species present, the diseases they can transmit and the appropriate protection measures is essential for any traveller wishing to explore French Guiana safely.

Mosquito species present in French Guiana

French Guiana is home to a far greater diversity of mosquitoes than the Caribbean islands. Key species include:

French Guiana is one of the few French territories where yellow fever is still present in the wild in forest areas. Yellow fever vaccination is compulsory to enter French Guiana.

Yellow fever: a Guianese specificity

Unlike the Caribbean islands, French Guiana is classified as a yellow fever endemic zone. The yellow fever vaccine is:

• Compulsory for anyone over 1 year of age wishing to enter French Guiana
• Available only at approved international vaccination centres
• Valid for life (since 2016, booster doses are no longer required)

The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before departure to be effective.

Forest areas: specific precautions

The Guianese Amazon rainforest is a magnificent but demanding environment. Mosquitoes are present at all hours, with peak activity at dawn and dusk.

During the day (Aedes)

• Apply skin repellent every 3-4 hours (DEET 30-50%, icaridin)
• Wear long clothing impregnated with permethrin
• Avoid stagnant water areas (ponds, tree hollows)

At night (Anopheles, Culex)

• Sleep under a permethrin-treated mosquito net — absolutely essential
• Use an electric diffuser or coils indoors
• Cover arms and legs from sunset

The Guianese coast: a more moderate risk

If your stay is limited to Cayenne, Kourou or Rémire-Montjoly, the risk is significantly lower than in the forest. These urban and peri-urban areas are regularly treated by health authorities. Precautions are still necessary but less demanding than in forest areas.

Recommended anti-mosquito kit for French Guiana

A territory to discover without fear

French Guiana is an extraordinary destination: primary forests, majestic rivers, Amerindian villages, the Kourou space centre, Cayenne carnival... Thousands of travellers visit each year and return enchanted. The people of French Guiana — Creole, Amerindian or Bushinengue — have lived in harmony with this environment for centuries and will be happy to guide you. With good preparation, French Guiana proves as accessible as it is magnificent.