Updated May 31, 2021
Will I need a COVID-19 test to return to the United States, Europe, Canada, and Japan from Costa Rica?
Not every country has the same requirements. Make sure to check before booking your flight and get tested at least 72 hours before traveling. If you do have to get tested, make sure to get your results printed and carry them with you at all times.
If you are entering the United States and/or Canada, you need a negative COVID-19 test result in order to board your flight. The results will only be valid if you got tested 72 hours (three days) prior to your departure. You must get tested if you are over 2 years of age in the US and over 5 years of age in Canada. This applies to everyone entering the country, despite their residency status or motive of visit.
Where can I get COVID-19 testing in Costa Rica?
In every province you will be able to find either a hospital, clinics, or laboratories that are authorized to issue a COVID-19 test. Here are some options:
- Hospital CIMA in San José
- Laboratorios Echandi in Limón, Puerto Viejo, Santa Cruz, Liberia, San Carlos, and San José, among other locations
- Hospital Metropolitano in Quepos, Santa Cruz, Liberia, and San José, among other locations
- Laboratorios San José in Jacó and San José, among other locations
- Laboratorios Labin in San José
- Juan Santamaria Airport near San José and Daniel Oduber Airport in Liberia. Make your appointment in English here!
If you want to find other options, here is the entire list by the Costa Rican Tourism Board. Find the latest updates and make sure you find the closest to your location.
Are the COVID-19 tests offered in Costa Rica accepted for entering the US, Europe, Canada, and Japan?
Costa Rica has the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test available and this test is valid for entry to the US, Europe, Canada. And Japan.
Will I have time to get tested for COVID-19 before leaving Costa Rica?
Absolutely! You can get your results even before 48 hours. Our recommendation is to get tested no later than three days before (72 hours), just so you can have your test at least a day before. Most testing facilities will send you your results through email, so you don’t have to wait for your test results in the hospital, clinic or laboratory where you took it.
If you want to make sure this process is as smooth as possible, ask your tavel agency if they can schedule an appointment for you. In Camino Travel, we can incorporate your COVID-19 test into your itinerary seamlessly.
Are appointments needed to get the COVID-19 test in Costa Rica?
While some labs do not require appointments, it is always a good idea to contact them first to make sure. Most testing facilities do require an appointment.
When booking with Camino Travel, we can make the testing appointment for you.
Are the rapid antigen tests available in Costa Rica?
Yes, they are! Costa Rica approved the use of rapid testing and now various facilities offer this option. This test is acceptable for entering the US. However, Canada does not accept rapid antigen tests.
How safe and clean is the COVID-19 test in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica meets the highest standards when it comes to COVID-19 tests. Every hospital and private laboratories meet the international sanitary protocol and have been both approved to perform the RT-PCR and rapid testing.
How expensive is the COVID-19 test in Costa Rica?
Test pricing can range from $60 – $200. You can check the price before getting an appointment and choose the best option for you.
If you are traveling with Camino Travel, we will get you all the information so you know the exact cost of your COVID-19 test that adjusts best with your schedule.
What is the procedure if I test positive for COVID-19 before leaving Costa Rica?
If you or any of your close travelling companions test positive for COVID-19, a fourteen day mantaray quarantine will be required before you are allowed to leave. The coverage of this unexpected extension will be covered by the travel insurance policy. The travel insurance policy is a requirement before entering Costa Rica.
If you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms or are confirmed to have been exposed to someone with coronavirus, please call the government hotline 1322 for help. English-speaking operators are available.
