If you’re heading to the continent and currently Googling “best mosquito repellent for Africa”, let me save you a lot of itchy mistakes and sticky regrets: incognito® is the only repellent I now trust—and that’s coming from someone who has personally donated litres of blood to the mosquito populations of Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda. You’re welcome, Africa.

I used to be a loyal DEET devotee. I’d slather it on like war paint, convinced it was the only thing standing between me and a week of furious scratching. But over time, I started to question what I was actually putting on my skin. Why did my hands feel weirdly numb? Why did my sunglasses suddenly melt? And was I really comfortable coating myself in a chemical that’s so strong it can strip nail polish?

That’s when I made the switch to incognito®, a DEET-free mosquito repellent that doesn’t just claim to work in tropical zones—it’s actually proven to. It’s natural, sustainable, travel-sized, and miraculously, it doesn’t make me smell like I’ve bathed in industrial cleaner. After months of testing it across some of Africa’s most mosquito-heavy regions, I can confidently say it’s the best mosquito repellent for Africa I’ve ever used—and that includes the ones that come with warning labels.

Disclaimer: incognito® gifted the products I am reviewing in this article. However, I entered my agreement with them on the understanding that the words I wrote would be an honest and accurate representation of the products, for better or worse. Therefore, this incognito® review is based solely on my honest opinion. This post also contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I will earn a small amount of commission at no extra cost to you.

Let’s Talk About Mosquitoes (Because Apparently They Love Me)

If there’s a mosquito within a 10-mile radius, it will find me, feast on me, and invite its extended family for seconds. I’m convinced I’ve become a walking tasting menu. In fact, my mum even wrote a child’s novel about mosquitoes in which I was the main protagonist! Spoiler: I was saved by a spider!

Now, in most places, mosquito bites are just itchy inconveniences. Annoying, yes, but manageable. But in Africa? We’re talking about real risks—malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, and more. These aren’t “have a Lemsip and a lie-down” illnesses. They can knock you sideways for weeks or worse. And no, just because you’re staying in a fancy safari lodge doesn’t mean the mozzies got the memo.

That’s why choosing the right repellent isn’t just a travel tip—it’s an essential safety precaution. It’s the difference between returning home with epic stories… or a medical file. Luckily, I have avoided mosquito-borne diseases (so far), but on my first trip to Sierra Leone, they got me so bad, and I scratched myself so much that I actually looked like I’d rolled in poison ivy.

So yes, your mosquito repellent matters. And if you’re travelling through Africa, especially off the beaten path like I do, you need something you can rely on—without compromising your health, the planet, or your sense of smell. But first, let’s talk about the ex I don’t miss—DEET.

DEET: The Frenemy You Didn’t Know You Had

Ah, DEET. The chemical everyone swears by but no one actually likes. It’s the Beyoncé of mosquito repellents—famous, powerful, and somehow everywhere. For decades, it’s been the default recommendation for travellers heading to malaria-risk zones. Why? Because it works. Sort of. If you don’t mind smelling like industrial solvent, dissolving your watch strap, and absorbing a neurotoxin through your skin. You know, minor things.

I used to be all in. DEET was my go-to. I packed it for every trip, spraying it liberally while holding my breath and praying my camera lens didn’t melt. It got me through jungle treks, safari nights, and the odd overly enthusiastic village goat (unrelated, but worth mentioning). But the more I travelled—and the more time I spent around people, animals, and ecosystems—I started to question what I was doing.

Because DEET doesn’t just repel mosquitoes; it also repels common sense. It’s toxic to aquatic life, can harm beneficial insects, and leaches into soil and waterways. I once dripped some on a plastic bag and watched it disintegrate like I was doing a science experiment gone wrong. That can’t be good for my skin. Or, you know, my internal organs.

And then there’s the health stuff. Studies have linked long-term DEET exposure to everything from skin irritation to potential nervous system effects. I don’t know about you, but I’d like to come home from my travels with stories—not a questionably functioning liver.

Sustainable travel isn’t just about avoiding plastic straws and carrying a tote bag. It’s about making better choices in the small things, too. And switching out a harsh chemical for a plant-based repellent that’s actually been tested in tropical zones? That’s a small switch with a big impact, which brings me to the hero of this story: incognito®.

Enter incognito®: The Best Mosquito Repellent for Africa

Enter incognito®, stage left, glowing softly in its sleek black bottle like a hero in a mosquito-fuelled drama. My first reaction? Where have you been all my itchy life?

It’s made from natural ingredients like PMD (that’s p-Menthane-3,8-diol, for those who enjoy a little science with their skincare), which is derived from Java citronella – a far more powerful cousin of the basic citronella oils you find in most “natural” repellents. This isn’t your average spritz and pray blend. The PMD used in incognito® products – Citrepel 75 – is a far more potent variety than standard citronella-based PMD. It’s the purest and strongest concentration, found across their biocidal range: sprays, lotions, roll-ons, and even sunblock. No fluff, no filler – just serious science backing up the fresh scent.

The best part? It’s DEET-free, yet somehow just as effective. I’ve used it in malaria zones, rainforest lodges, budget beach huts, and one unfortunate hotel room with a suspiciously large hole in the mosquito net—and it’s kept the mozzies at bay. My legs, arms, neck, and even that random spot behind my knee that always gets forgotten? All bite-free. (Well, almost. I’m not a magician. But the difference was night and day.)

It’s not a gimmick. It’s not “natural” in the sense that it smells like lavender and wishful thinking. It’s the real deal, with certifications, awards, and enough enthusiastic five-star reviews to fill a Lonely Planet guidebook. And unlike other natural repellents I’ve tried—which ranged from “slightly effective” to “I think the mosquitoes actually liked it”—this one held its ground.

So yes, I’ll say it again, loud and proud: incognito®is the best mosquito repellent for Africa. And I should know—I’ve field-tested it across six countries and roughly 74 mosquito attacks.

What’s in My Anti-Mozzie Arsenal (AKA: Yes, I Packed Half the incognito® Range)

I started out as a simple spray-and-go kind of traveller. But for this trip, I committed to fully road-testing the incognito® range—and honestly, I may never go back to my minimalist bug-battling days again. Here’s what made it into my backpack (and what didn’t earn a return ticket):

Insect Repellent Spray

The classic. The MVP. The one product I’d never leave behind. Easy to apply, smells fresh (think lemongrass, not death), and most importantly—it works. I use it daily, especially at sunrise and sunset when the mozzies come out to party.

Moisturising Insect Repellent Lotion

My skin tends to get dry when I travel (sun, sweat, endless hand-washing…), so I swapped out my regular moisturiser for this—and haven’t looked back. It hydrates without leaving me greasy and gives that added layer of protection, especially before bed or after a shower. Solid win.

Mineral Sunblock & Insect Repeller

Suncream and mozzie repellent in one? Genius. This has completely replaced my usual sunblock. It’s reef-friendly, lightweight, and doesn’t leave that sticky residue most suncreams do. Even better, it solved a little-known problem: if you apply regular sunscreen first and repellent after (or vice-versa), you’re compromising both. And since dengue-carrying mosquitoes bite in the daytime, this combo is absolutely essential for all-day adventures in the tropics.

Natural Aftersun & Moisturiser

I’ll be honest—I rarely use aftersun. But incognito® isn’t just an aftersun – it’s also a moisturiser, which makes it way more useful than the average aloe gel. More importantly, regular cosmetics – from creams to shampoos – can actually attract insects. So swapping them out in high-risk areas isn’t just practical; it’s preventative. That said, if I’m trying to pack light, this might still stay at home.

Natural Hair & Body Wash

Smells great and works beautifully as a body wash. My hair, however, had a very different opinion. If you’ve got curly, frizzy, “don’t tell me what to do” hair like mine, you’ll probably want to stick with your regular haircare routine. That said, as a body wash, it’s refreshing and travel-friendly (and doesn’t attract unwanted visitors!).

Room Refresher

Tiny, compact, and if it helps keep mozzies out of my tent or bungalow? I’m packing it every time! This is one of incognito®’s best sellers for a reason – it’s a completely natural, non-toxic alternative to plug-in coils and sprays, and I found it surprisingly effective.

Repellent Bracelet

I love a good travel bracelet, and this one fits right in—with the added bonus of helping repel mosquitoes. Unlike most single-use versions, this one has refillable capsules, making it a more sustainable option. It offers ongoing protection throughout the day, especially useful when I invariably forget to apply my mosquito repelling suncream or, indeed, my mosquito repellent spray (it happens!). But a quick note: although great as a backup, if you want 100% protection, you should always use it alongside one of incognito®’s biocidal products.

Luxury Loofah Soap

I didn’t expect to love this, but it surprised me. It exfoliates gently, smells lush, and apparently helps remove microscopic skin gunk that biting insects love. My skin felt great, but let’s be real—I don’t have a Mary Poppins backpack. As much as I enjoyed using it, I probably won’t pack it again unless I’m feeling particularly spa-worthy.

Zap-Ease Bite Relief

Yes, even with the best mosquito repellent for Africa, the occasional bite happens. Although let’s not point the finger at incognito®, it’s likely I missed a bit! I do with suncream too!

Luckily, this tiny clicky device zaps the itch away. I was sceptical, but it weirdly works. It’s not painful, just a little spark, and then… the itch? Gone. I’ve become mildly addicted to clicking it. Also a great way to confuse nearby travel buddies.

How to Use It (Properly)

Let’s be honest—most people spray insect repellent the same way they apply perfume in duty-free: a quick spritz to the wrist and maybe a bit behind the ears, then hope for the best. Which is fine if you’re trying to impress someone in an elevator, not if you’re about to hike through a mosquito-infested jungle in Sierra Leone.

So here’s how to actually use incognito®, the best mosquito repellent for Africa, without relying on blind optimism.

Spray It Like You Mean It

With the insect repellent spray, I go full coverage: ankles, behind the knees (they love that spot), elbows, neck, ears, and any exposed skin. And yes, I do the awkward backpack shimmy so I can reach my shoulders. Reapply every 4–5 hours, more often if you’re sweating buckets or going for a swim. I also give my clothes a light spritz—especially around cuffs, collars, and hems.

Layering Like a Pro

In the morning, I start with the Suncream & Insect Repellent combo—and at night, I apply the moisturiser and Insect Repellent combo. Protection and nourishment all at the same time!

Bracelets for Lazy Days

If I’m just popping out for a quick walk or dinner and can’t be bothered with a full reapplication, the wristbands are my shortcut. I use them more as backup than frontline defence, but they’re brilliant for those in-between moments—especially if you’re wearing a sleeveless top and don’t want to bathe in repellent mid-meal.

Dealing with the Ones That Got Through

Even with the best intentions and generous application, the odd mosquito will still sneak through—usually when I forget the back of one ankle. That’s when Zap-Ease comes out. A few clicks on the bite, and the itch fades fast. No scratching, no scarring, no looking like you’ve had an unfortunate allergic reaction.

Can You Wear It With Sunscreen? Makeup? Sweat?

Yes, yes, and definitely yes. But—here’s the bit most people don’t know—layering sunscreen and insect repellent compromises both. Suncream can reduce the effectiveness of your repellent and vice versa, which is why the incognito® mineral sunblock and insect repellent is such a lifesaver. It’s reef-friendly, smells great, and lets you stay protected from both sun and bites without turning your face into a chemistry experiment.

Other Smart Travel Tricks

Even the best mosquito repellent works better when paired with common sense:

• Cover-up at dawn and dusk with long sleeves and trousers (loose, light fabrics work best).

• Sleep under a mosquito net—even if you’re staying somewhere fancy.

• Use a fan or air-con when you can. Mozzies are terrible fliers.

• Avoid dark clothing at night (apparently mozzies are drawn to it).

• And never, ever leave your ankles exposed while sitting at a beach bar thinking, “I’ll be fine.” You won’t.

What Makes It the Best Mosquito Repellent for Africa?

There are plenty of “natural” repellents out there that sound great until you’re being bitten through them. Trust me, I’ve tried a lot of them. Some smell lovely, others feel like fancy body oil, but when you’re sweating your way through a Tanzanian savannah or swatting away clouds of mosquitoes by the Nile, you need something with real bite-back. That’s what makes incognito® such a game-changer.

It’s DEET-free, yes—but it still packs a punch strong enough for full-blown tropical zones. This isn’t your average citronella spritz. The PMD in incognito® comes from Java citronella and is up to three times more potent than the usual stuff you’ll find in other “natural” products. And the concentration used – Citrepel 75 – is one of the highest and purest you can get. Many so-called natural repellents don’t contain enough PMD to actually work in high-risk areas. incognito® does. Properly.

It’s also worth noting that PMD is the only other active ingredient, besides DEET, to be approved by the WHO, CDC, and NHS – so you can rest easy knowing you’re protected by something with actual global health credentials, not just a pleasant scent.

And because sustainability matters just as much as protection, incognito® is also B Corp certified. That means the company meets high standards for social and environmental impact, transparency, and accountability. They’re not just making good products—they’re trying to make a big difference. Which, if you’re the kind of traveller who cares about where your money goes (and who it helps), really counts.

So when I say incognito® is the best mosquito repellent for Africa, I’m not just talking about what works on your skin—I’m talking about what works for the planet, too.

Final Verdict: Would I Pack It Again? (Spoiler: I Already Did)

Short answer? Yes. Repeatedly. Obsessively. I now pack incognito® like I pack emergency chocolate—non-negotiable and always within reach.

After putting it to the test across six African countries in everything from dense jungles to dusty safari plains, I can confidently say this stuff is staying in my backpack permanently. It’s earned its place next to my passport and power bank. I no longer leave the guesthouse without a quick spray, a wristband in my day bag, and the smug satisfaction of knowing I won’t spend the evening scratching my legs like a deranged flamenco dancer.

I’ve tried other natural repellents in the past—some that made big promises and delivered only sweetly-scented disappointment. One melted in the heat, one left me greasier than a roadside chapati, and another seemed to attract mosquitoes with the enthusiasm of an all-you-can-eat buffet. Lovely branding, zero bite protection. Cute, but no thanks.

incognito®, on the other hand, actually works. It’s lightweight, smells decent, doesn’t give me hives, and keeps the bites at bay whether I’m hiking off-grid, floating down a river, or sipping a cocktail under the stars, trying to pretend I’m the kind of person who packs linen. It doesn’t rely on DEET or scary chemicals, and it supports sustainable travel in a way that doesn’t feel performative—it just makes sense.

So yes, I’m in a committed relationship with this repellent now. And if you’re heading anywhere with even a hint of mosquito potential, especially in Africa, I genuinely believe this is the best mosquito repellent for Africa you can pack.

Just don’t blame me when all your travel companions start asking to borrow it.

Practical Advice for Travellers

So now that you’re sold (you are sold, right?), here’s everything you need to know to stock up and stay bite-free.

Where to Buy It

You can order incognito® directly from their website, www.lessmosquito.com, and they ship internationally. It’s also stocked in places like Boots in the UK, Amazon, and some travel-specific shops—though fair warning, it tends to sell out fast in summer. So don’t leave it until the airport. Nobody wants to pay £20 for the last crusty bottle of mystery spray at Duty-Free.

Added bonus: if you are buying it directly from incognito®, you get 15% off if you use ** BEATOURS15** at checkout! To make it easy for you, if you click any of the links in this article, the discount will be automatically applied. (You’re welcome!).

How Much to Pack

As a general rule, one bottle of spray lasts around 7 days in high-risk zones if you’re applying every 4 hours. So, plan accordingly based on your itinerary and how snack-worthy mosquitoes tend to find you.

My Full Anti-Mozzie Kit

               •             incognito® insect repellent spray

               •             incognito® suncream/repellent combo (for daytime)

               •             Moisturiser (for post-shower and bedtime)

               •             Repellent wristbands (for lazy days and backup)

               •             Zap-Ease bite relief (because nobody’s perfect)

               •             Mosquito net (even your accommodation has one because they are not always guaranteed to not have holes in them!)

               •             Long-sleeved, light-coloured clothes

               •             A portable fan (great for rooms without AC and deterring weak-flying mozzies)

Vaccinations & Prevention Tips

Before heading to Africa, check travel health advice for the countries you’re visiting. In general:

               •             You might need to get vaccinated for yellow fever

               •             Consider anti-malarial tablets if you’re travelling in high-risk areas—chat to a travel nurse about what’s right for you

               •             Stay hydrated, cover up in the evenings, and always sleep under a mosquito net

               •             And yep—pack incognito®. You knew that was coming.

Sustainable Travel Starts Small (Like With a Mosquito Bite)

It’s easy to think that big changes start with… well, big changes. But often, it’s the tiny decisions—the ones you don’t think twice about—that quietly shape how we impact the world.

Like what mosquito repellent you choose.

Most people wouldn’t consider a bottle of bug spray to be a vote for the planet, but it absolutely is. Every time we swap a toxic chemical for a natural alternative, we’re choosing not to pollute rivers. We’re choosing not to risk our health for convenience. We’re choosing not to leave behind invisible damage in the places we’re lucky enough to explore.

incognito® proves that you don’t need to compromise. You can protect yourself and the planet. You can smell nice and avoid being dinner. You can go on epic adventures without slathering yourself in chemicals that would give a lab technician pause.

So if you’re heading to Africa—or anywhere tropical, really—ditch the DEET. Go smarter. Go natural. Go with a product that’s been field-tested on beaches, in rainforests, and under the most determined mosquito clouds the continent has to offer. Go incognito®.

And then go wild. The good kind of wild.