Which insects will you encounter in Lapland?
Mosquitoes. The main nuisance from midsummer to late July in moist zones (lakes, marshes, forest edges). Rarely, they can transmit Pogosta fever (Sindbis virus) or tularemia, but for travelers the overall risk is very low.
Blackflies. Tiny, biting flies that thrive near flowing water, such as rivers. Their bites can bleed and often itch longer than mosquito bites.
Biting midges / no-see-ums. Extremely small, able to pass through regular mosquito netting. Only very fine mesh nets provide protection.
Horseflies / deer flies. Large, daytime-active flies, common near water and marshes. Their bites are painful because they cut into the skin, often bleed, and may become inflamed – but they are usually not dangerous.
Deer keds. Most common in late summer and autumn in forests. They crawl into hair and can leave itchy welts. Clothing treated with permethrin is the most effective defense.
When is it worst – and when is it pleasant?
The peak season is around midsummer through late July, especially in marshes, dense forests, and windless bays. From August onward, the situation usually improves noticeably; late August to mid-September is often almost mosquito-free, with cool nights and clear air. Open, windy places are always easier than damp, sheltered spots.
Health risk: lower in Finland than elsewhere
Many parents worry whether mosquito bites in Lapland are dangerous. The clear answer: no more than anywhere else – in fact, less.
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Worldwide, mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, or chikungunya.
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In Finland, these diseases do not exist.
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Rare cases of Pogosta fever (Sindbis virus) or tularemia occur, but both are usually mild and pose very little risk for travelers.
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The Asian tiger mosquito, which spreads diseases in southern Europe, is not established in Finland.
Conclusion: mosquitoes in Lapland are annoying, but hardly dangerous. The health risk is far smaller than in many other travel destinations.
Mosquitoes are useful – part of nature
As unpleasant as bites may be, mosquitoes belong to Lapland’s natural balance. Their larvae are food for fish and amphibians, adult mosquitoes feed birds, bats, and dragonflies. Some species even pollinate plants. Machines that kill millions of mosquitoes disrupt food chains. The right approach is not eradication, but smart protection.
Practical protection outdoors
Clothing. Long, loose, tightly woven, light-colored clothing. Tuck trousers into socks, wear closed shoes. Permethrin-treated clothing or socks are very effective.
Repellents. DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE/PMD) are proven. Always follow age guidelines and label instructions.
Thermacell. Handy devices for outdoor seating areas, creating a protective zone of about 4–6 meters. At Mökki Tikka I provide one device – guests should bring their own gas cartridges and pads.
Mosquito coils. The classic green spirals work very well against mosquitoes outdoors, but not against horseflies or midges. They produce smoke, so use only outdoors.
Nets. Regular mosquito nets work for mosquitoes; for midges you need extra fine mesh. A fan on the terrace also helps, as mosquitoes cannot fly well in moving air.
By the water. When moving – paddling, hiking – insects bite much less than when standing still in damp bays.
Indoors. Keep doors and windows closed, cool the house via air conditioning. This way, even the peak season remains mosquito-free indoors.
Natural methods
Smoke works – not romance. Campfire smoke keeps mosquitoes away from the fireplace area. Smoldering coffee grounds is a popular trick – its effect comes from the smoke, not the coffee itself. It’s a nice extra but no replacement for repellents or nets. Essential oils like citronella, lavender, or tea tree oil can help a little, but are not reliable protection.
Especially about horseflies and midges
Horseflies. Best protection is long clothing, trousers tucked into socks, and movement. Repellents have limited effect. Their bites are painful but harmless.
Midges. Only fine mesh nets work. Repellents are less effective, so mechanical barriers are essential.
Children and sensitive skin
Children are well protected with proper clothing, hat and net, plus age-appropriate repellents. For babies: mainly clothing and nets, no strong chemicals. For children prone to strong reactions, antihistamines can help, as advised by a doctor or pharmacist.
First aid for bites
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Don’t scratch. Scratching increases itching and the risk of infection.
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Clean. Wash with soap and water.
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Cool. Cold compresses or cooling packs reduce swelling and pain.
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Creams. 1% hydrocortisone cream or antihistamine gels ease severe itching.
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Medication. Oral antihistamines (e.g. cetirizine, loratadine) relieve strong reactions. Painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can also help.
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Heat devices. Special pens that briefly heat the bite can quickly reduce itching.
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When to see a doctor. If swelling, fever, breathing problems, circulatory issues, or infected wounds appear.
Packing list – safe outdoors
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Long, light-colored, tightly woven clothing
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Trousers tucked into socks, closed shoes
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Head covering with mosquito net
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Repellent (DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or OLE/PMD)
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Permethrin-treated clothing
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Thermacell with gas cartridges and pads
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Mosquito coils for outdoor use
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Hydrocortisone cream, antihistamine, cooling packs
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Fine mesh net for midges
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Fan for the terrace
Conclusion
Yes, the weeks around midsummer can bring plenty of mosquitoes in Lapland – especially near large lakes and marshes. But: with proper clothing, effective repellents, Thermacell, mosquito coils, and nets, holidays can be enjoyed without major restrictions. From August onwards, it becomes much easier. Children are safe when dressed appropriately, and with a small first aid kit, bites are quickly under control.
Mosquitoes belong to Lapland. They are annoying, but not dangerous when you are prepared. With the right knowledge, a holiday at Simojärvi and Simojoki becomes a safe, natural, and relaxed family experience.
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