What are land leeches and how are they dangerous for tourists?

Land leeches are small parasites that inhabit humid tropical forests, which are practically harmless for most tourists. Their bite is painless, they do not transmit infections, and they leave only a small bruise that may itch. The main danger is the rare disease hirudinosis, when a leech penetrates inside the body through natural openings (nose, mouth, etc.), but such cases are extremely unlikely during ordinary excursions.

If you are planning only a beach vacation, then you are not at risk of encountering them. But for lovers of hiking, trekking in jungles, or excursions in national parks of Sri Lanka, Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia — it is a common occurrence. The main thing is to know how to protect yourself and what to do in case of a bite.

More details, personal experience, and illustrative photos we have collected in our detailed and honest guide: Land leeches in the tropics and what you need to know about them.

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