There has been a great deal of confusion since the CDC issued the order that requires testing for travel to the United States.
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/unit ... index.htmlAmong the problems with the order is that the original CDC publication did not indicate which of the 3 CDC tests would be required. The CDC has since revised its instructions, and and has indicated that both the
Molecular Test (aka PCR NAAT, RT-PCR test, LAMP test) and
Antigen Test (aka rapid test) are acceptable.
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer- ... ing-basicsBoth the Castillo and Sportsmens Lodge had assumed that the Molecular Test would be required and have made arrangements for Molecular Testing, which is generally more difficult to arrange on your own.
It's safe to assume there will be many more options, possibly less expensive and quicker options for getting the rapid test. Keep in mind this is a problem anyone leaving Costa Rica for the United States will have to deal with, and solutions are likely to emerge.
One point to consider is that you opt for the rapid, antigen test, it's possible you could get a false positive result. The Molecular or PCR test is unlikely to give a false positive result.
In either case, it's likely that you will have to be tested by a professional, because the actual requirement is a "dated document" of negative test results.
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/let ... ovdeliveryThe bottom line, however is that the CDC requires the individual airline to check for testing compliance.
Having a negative test result, taken within 3 days is a travel document, just like having your passport. The airline doesn't look too closely at your passport, and verifies that you have it along with the required visa in the case of foreigner travelers to the US.
At this time, if you have any questions about the test requirement for returning to the United States, then you should call your specific airline.
The practical upshot is that testing is NOT likely to be a problem if you are staying at the Sportsmens Lodge or Castillo Hotel just before going to the airport.