*Please note the majority of the resorts in the region require a minimum 3-7 nights stay to qualify for the free Antigen tests*, we will confirm this with you when you make an inquiry with us to book the resort*.
To date, PCR tests are NOT FREE at any of the resorts.
If you do specifically require a PCR test you will have to pay…And as you will soon see some hotels are offering PCR tests cheaper than others. I have also detailed PCR prices in this blog for your reference.*
Without further ado…
Did you know some of the stand-out resorts in Mexico are offering FREE COVID antigen tests?
With a large part of our traffic and clients coming from the USA you’re going to need either a negative COVID test before you return home.
Luckily, if you are from the USA lots of the resorts are offering the ANTIGEN test for free.
Our team can:
- help you pick the best resort for you and your group
- help you get a great deal
-
explain how to get your covid test organized with your resort when you book with us
- help you understand what happens if you test positive
So, if you’re ready to take the stress out of travelling from start to finish you’ve come to the right place.
Top 10 Resorts Offering FREE COVID Tests:
*Please note you do have to be staying at the hotels listed to be eligible for testing.
I’d just like to start by quickly saying…
You are my kind of person! You know why? 🙂
Because you’re not letting a damn COVID test stop your adventures.
You’re awesome. That is all.
Pssst… please don’t skip the details on each hotel as they all play by different rules, have different policy ending dates, etc…
I suspect all hotels to offer COVID testing to their services in coming days/weeks but some of them are charging anywhere between 33-250 USD for the pleasure *eye roll*.
To save you some dollar (in these already very weird and trying times) the hotels I’ve listed here in this blog are offering the Antigen test at no extra cost.
1. Grupo Xcaret…Hotel Xcaret
- Hotel Xcaret | Kid-Friendly | Riviera Maya | ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$$
Grupo Xcaret will be offering the Antigen tests for FREE, at no cost to its guests.
PCR tests will be available at an additional cost of $140 USD (paid directly at the doctors).
What Happens if I Test Positive At Xcaret Resorts?
In the event that a guest tests positive for COVID-19, the Xcaret hotels will offer accommodation coverage at no cost for 14-days isolation of the affected person and a companion in the same room (if both test positive).
These measures will be effective until March 31, 2021.
After this date, the hotel will be reviewing the protocol based on world updates.
So, if you are planning to travel after this date please check the up-to-date information (I will keep this blog updated accordingly).
Useful Xcaret Information:
Get a feel for Xcaret hotels and attractions here…
- Read my honest review of Hotel Xcaret here.
- Our top tips for Xcaret Park
- Tours with the best COVID safety standards
Call us on our toll-free number +1 888-537-9797 to get the best deal and start planning your trip.
Or make a hotel inquiry with us today at customercare@playadelcarmen.com to get your quote.
2. Grand Palladium Kantenah
Kid-Friendly | Riviera Maya | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
Grand Palladium is proud to extend its Stay Safe Plus FREE Health Insurance™ and its White Book Health & Safety Protocols™.
In response to the need of the market to continue supporting the traveller during these trying times, Grand Palladium is “pleased to announce the inclusion of COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost (until April 4th, 2021) to guests travelling to the U.S., as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations on January 26, 2021.”
On-site property testing will be administered by certified labs and hospitals in partnership with their in-house Doctors committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers staying at any of their destinations in Mexico.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
“Guests should contact the Front Desk at each resort upon arrival to schedule testing, which is required to be done 3 days prior to the date of departure.”
What Happens if I Test Positive At Grand Palladium?
Grand Palladium is yet to release details about this. I will update you when I know more.
Please understand as a local travel agency in Playa del Carmen we are one of the first people to hear of any changes on the ground and the information is coming in thick and fast in alignment with the new rules and regulation.
Useful Grand Palladium Information:
Get a feel for the hotel and the new protocols here…
- My honest review of Grand Palladium Kantenah weddings
- Resorts with best COVID safety standards
- How to plan your destination wedding during COVID
3. Dreams Tulum
Kid-Friendly | Tulum | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
“Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.”
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Dreams Tulum?
If a guest receives a positive test while on this property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Dreams Tulum:
Get a feel for the hotel and what it has to offer…
- My Honest Review of Dreams Tulum Weddings
- 10 Sublime Swim-Up Suites For a More Private Pool Experience
4. Mahekal Beachfront Resort & Spa
Kids Welcome but Adult-Only vibe | Playa del Carmen | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
“On January 12, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded the requirement for a negative COVID-19 test to all air passengers entering the United States. This requirement will go into effect on January 26, 2021.”
Mahekal Beach Resort has implemented a series of measures in support of current and future guests. These consist of:
The inclusion of COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021, for guests with a three (3) night stay or longer, regardless of booking source.
This covers all guests per room, over the age of two (2) years.
For stays of less than three (3) nights, Mahekal Beach Resort can still assist with the coordination of testing, however, the cost of the tests, plus applicable 16% tax, would be the guest’s responsibility.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers.
Test results should be received within 24 hours in written format as required by the CDC. Guests should contact the front desk upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
For guests travelling to countries that do not accept the antigen test and require PCR testing, the front desk will help coordinate and facilitate testing, at the guest’s cost.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Mahekal Resort?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property, room only, will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This policy is valid for travel through March 31, 2021.**
Specialized action protocols in the event of case detection to ensure the well-being of the affected person and the other guests, including those within the travel party.
In the event of a positive test, and the inability to travel, Mahekal Beach Resort will provide guest and one (1) travel companion, a guest room in an isolation area of the resort.
Guest will be responsible for meals and beverages; to be delivered contactless.
Guest will also be responsible for 50% of the daily resort fee.
Rooms for additional travel companions, if needed, will be offered at a discounted rate.
This policy is currently in effect until March 31, 2021; for arrivals on or before that date, for actualized stays of 3 nights or more on the initial reservation.
Useful Information for Mahekal Resort Stays:
We included this hotel in our spring break guide, find out why here…
5. Secrets Akumal
Adult-Only | Akumal | ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Secrets Akumal?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Secrets Akumal Stays:
Get a feel for the hotel and the area…
6. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
Adult-Only | Half-Way Between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos| ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Secrets Maroma?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Secrets Maroma Stays:
Get a feel for the hotel…
7. TRS Yucatan
Adult-Only | Akumal| ★★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
Grand Palladium is proud to extend its Stay Safe Plus FREE Health Insurance™ and its White Book Health & Safety Protocols™.
In response to the need of the market to continue supporting the traveller during these trying times, Grand Palladium is “pleased to announce the inclusion of COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost (until April 4th, 2021) to guests travelling to the U.S., as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations on January 26, 2021.”
“On-site property testing will be administered by certified labs and hospitals in partnership with their in-house Doctors committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers staying at any of their destinations in Mexico. Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.”
Guests should contact the Front Desk at each resort upon arrival to schedule testing, which is required to be done 3 days prior to the date of departure.
What Happens if I Test Positive At TRS Yucatan?
Grand Palladium is yet to release details about this. I will update you when I know more.
Please understand as a local travel agency in Playa del Carmen we are one of the first people to hear of any changes on the ground and the information is coming in thick and fast in alignment with the new rules and regulation.
The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences
Adults-Only | Downtown Playa del Carmen | ★★★★| NOT all-inclusive | $$
Stay 4 nights or more, and your COVID-19 Antigen test is on the hotel.
The Fives are committed to your safety at The Fives Hotels and Residences.
“In order to assist with preventing the spread of COVID-19 and to reduce the risk of exposure, we are providing on-site testing (PCR & Antigen), and strengthening our cleanliness protocols and health initiatives.”
“Additionally, if you stay 4 nights or more at any of the resorts, your government-mandated pre-departure Antigen test is on us.”
Aligned with expert protocols and led by an independent authorized laboratory, the hotel will be facilitating COVID-19 tests in accordance with the requirements of each country, directly at the resort, 48 hours prior to departure.
“To prioritize and arrange the testing for our guests, The Fives Hotels and Residences is deploying new standard operating procedures.”
On-site PCR or Antigen testing will be available at a subsidized cost.
- PCR Test Cost: USD 80.00 per person.
- Antigen Test Cost: USD 30.00 per person
Reservations for testing will be made at check-in for no less than 48 hours prior to departure.
What Happens if I Test Positive At The Fives?
They are yet to release information on this and I will update this section of the blog as soon as I know more.
Useful Information on The Fives Hotel and Residences:
We included this hotel as part of our wedding collection due to its stunning sky roof terrace, check it out and learn more about the hotel here…
9. Dreams Puerto Aventuras
Kid-Friendly | Puerto Aventuras | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
From 1/26/21- 3/31/21 as part of the hotels CleanComplete program, AMResorts® is including the COVID-19 antigen testing on-property at no cost to guests travelling to the U.S., and as accepted per CDC U.S. travel regulations beginning on January 26, 2021.
On-site property testing will be administered by Hospiten, an international private hospital network committed to providing a first-rate health care service for travellers, across the majority of our destinations*.
Test results will be received the same day in written format as required by the CDC.
Guests should contact the concierge at each resort upon arrival to schedule departure testing.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE CDC TESTING REQUIREMENTS (please read):
- According to the CDC, air passengers entering the U.S. will be required to present documentation of a negative COVID-19 viral test (called a Qualifying Test) conducted within 3 days before their flight departs to the U.S.
- Documentation should be for a viral test (NAAT or antigen) as approved or authorized by the relevant national authority.
- Test results must state: Negative, SARS-CoV2 RNA Not Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Not Detected, or COVID-19 Not Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Documentation may be paper or electronic copy and must include the name and contact information for the laboratory or healthcare personnel who performed the test.
- Test results may be required to be shown again upon landing
- Alternatively, passengers may provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 with documentation of test results conducted during the 3 months preceding the flight’s departure from a foreign country.
- Test results must state: Positive, SARS-CoV2 RNA Detected, SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Detected or COVID-19 Detected. An invalid will not be accepted.
- Additionally, a letter from a licensed health professional stating that the passenger has been cleared for travel (called Documentation of Recovery) is required.
- Finally, all airline passengers will be required to present a simple CDC attestation form to the airline for collection prior to boarding.
What Happens If I Test Positive At Dreams Puerto Aventuras?
If a guest receives a positive test while on the property that prevents departure, the cost of quarantine at the property will be covered for up to 14 days.
Extended stay due to quarantine includes the guest plus one travel companion sharing the same room. This program is valid for travel through March 31, 2021
Useful Information for Dreams Puerto Aventuras:
Get a feel for the quiet area of Puerto Aventuras here…
10. Panama Jack & The Hilton Playa del Carmen
Kid-Friendly & Adults Only | Playa del Carmen & Cancun | ★★★★ | All-Inclusive | $$$
Playa Hotels & Resorts announces complimentary on-property Antigen testing beginning January 22, 2021, through April 30, 2021.
- Unless otherwise directed by local government/health officials
- Pending final approvals for our Jamaica resorts
- Based on 3-Night Stay in Mexico and the Dominican Republic
- Based on 5-Night Stay in Jamaica
- $49 per Antigen test for stays less than 5-Nights in Jamaica resorts
- Concessions for large groups/weddings business staying less than 5-nights
- Results Guarantee or we give you a room while you wait
- Up to 50% discount from the best available rate for guests that test positive and remain quarantined on the property (as per the distressed rates provided earlier)
- Negotiated discounts for PCR tests conducted on-property
Read The Hilton Playa del Carmen Clean Stay Promise here.
Disclaimer:
- Complimentary testing only applies to COVID-19 antigen testing on-property for guests travelling to the United States, and as accepted per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel regulations that take effect on January 26, 2021.
- Concessions to the minimum stay requirements for large groups/weddings are at the discretion of Playa Hotels & Resorts.
- Results Guarantee applies to guests that perform an antigen test on-property three days prior to departure and, through no fault of their own, do not receive the results prior to departure. In this case, Playa Hotels & Resorts will provide a complimentary room for the time period between the original departure date and the earliest possible departure date after results are received.
- Results Guarantee only applies to the cost of a standard-category room under the all-inclusive plan and do not include any additional on-property spend or incidental charges such as spa services or private cabanas.
What Happens If I Test Positive Playa Resorts?
- 50% discount for guests that test positive and remain on property apply for up to fourteen (14) days only.
Useful Information for Playa Resort Stays:
We included Panama Jack in this blog as it is a great affordable option for families.
Additional Resources You Will Find Useful:
We understand that some of you may have anxiety travelling during COVID. I’m here to help you with that by providing you with all the facts.
Learn more here:
- Tours with the best COVID safety standards
- Resorts with the best COVID safety standards
- Top tips for planning your wedding during COVID
- COVID FAQ how to vacation safely
- COVID live updates
Want The Best Rates At These Resorts?
If you’re ready to plan your vacation, and you want the best deal plus zero stress give us a call on our toll-free number +1 888-537-9797
Or
Alternatively, contact us via email at customercare@playadelcarmen.com
We will make sure you’re looked after and enjoy some worry-free fun in the sun. 🙂
If you’ve got any questions you know what to do 😉 … feel free to leave them in the comments section for me below and I will get back to you ASAP.
Thanks for reading! I hope you found it useful.
Trending Now
Tulum's Brand New Airport Now Welcoming US Flights
