What Mosquito Repellent Works Best in Kenya?
- By Bena Roberts | Ethical Safari Specialist for Women
- May 19
- 3 min read
Ballet Mosquito Repellent is the best mosquito repellent in Kenya.
I call myself the acclaimed mosquito expert because I have been there, been bitten, been eaten and am still alive. I have sweet blood, they love me! What can I do?
Well, lo and behold. This recent trip to Kenya, I found the perfect solution. In fact, it's almost too good to be true.
It’s a Kenyan petroleum jelly or what we call vaseline. It is 100% herbal and even after you have been bitten if you put it on, well basically, the itching stops.
Honestly, if I was reading this now, I would not believe myself. But I promise you this herbal repellent is life changing. Its a physical barrier on your skin which masks your body scent, but it does not smell bad.
It is GENIUS!
How much does the mosquito repellent cost?
It costs between 1 and 2 USD (around 130 to 250 Kenyan Shillings) and is available right at the airport in Kenya (sadly for 7 USD at airport prices), or in any local chemist or supermarket like Carrefour. Do not buy it at the tourist hotels, where they will easily charge you three times as much.
Ballet Mosquito Repellent Ingredients
Ingredient | Source / Common Name | Main Benefit |
Paraffinum Liquidum | Mineral Oil | Locks in moisture and creates a protective barrier on the skin. |
Cera Microcrystallina | Microcrystalline Wax | Smooths the product texture and helps retain skin hydration. |
Paraffin | Paraffin Wax | Softens skin and prevents natural moisture loss. |
Tarchonanthus Camphoratus (Oil) | Camphor Bush Oil | Soothes skin irritation and provides natural purification. |
Pelargonium Graveolens (Oil) | Rose Geranium Oil | Balances skin oil production and offers a refreshing herbal scent. |
Isopropyl Myristate | Emollient | Enhances product absorption so it feels smooth, not greasy. |
Citronellal | Plant Compound | Provides a bright, clean, citrus-like aroma. |
Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Oil) | Lemongrass Oil | Refreshes the skin and delivers natural clarifying properties. |
Tocopheryl Acetate | Vitamin E | Protects skin from environmental stressors and aids recovery. |
Cymbopogon Nardus (Oil) | Citronella Oil | Offers a crisp scent and helps shield the skin. |
Geraniol | Natural Essential Oil Component | Adds a sweet, rose-like fragrance note. |
Eucalyptus Globulus (Oil) | Eucalyptus Oil | Cools the skin and provides a clarifying, invigorating sensation. |
Rosemarinus Officinalis (Oil) | Rosemary Leaf Oil | Purifies skin tone and provides rich antioxidant support. |
Citral | Citrus Extract | Contributes a sharp, clean lemon fragrance. |
Benzophenone-3 | UV Filter | Stabilizes the product formula against light degradation. |
Linalool | Lavender/Flora Component | Imparts a soft, calming floral scent. |
Limonene | Citrus Peel Extract | Delivers a fresh, energetic citrus aromatic profile. |
How did I find out about this?
The women in Watamu Treehouse saved my life.
As you know there are no windows in the Watamu Treehouse and I am a walking, talking bug magnet. Even in the day where there are supposed to be no bugs, I got bitten. The lady, put this on my knee and the itching went. It was that simple. I cannot live without it now!
Read More About Staying Safe & Stylish on Safari:
Planning Around the Weather
When is Mosquito Season in Kenya? The Truth About Safari Months
Is May Too Muddy for Safari? Green Season Bugs and Realities
What to Wear & Packing Strategies
What Colours Attract Bugs in Africa? My Real-Life Safari Clothing Guide
Will Mosquitoes Eat Me Alive? Safari Outfits and No-Bite Style Guide for 2026
The Ultimate Packing List: What You Actually Need for a Kenya Safari
Real-Life Accommodation Survival
Staying at Watamu Treehouse: How to Deal with the Noises and No-Windows Mosquitoes
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