Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso — Affordable English-Friendly Clinical Lab in Paraíso, Cartago, Costa Rica

Services About Us Doctors FAQ Contact
Home serviceSchedule the day before
Digital resultsBy email or WhatsApp
Multiple payment methodsCash, card or SINPE
Very affordable pricesThe lowest in the area
Test catalog

Available packages and analyses

Over 50 clinical tests at the most affordable prices in Paraíso and Cartago. Pregnancy tests, blood counts, STI panels, thyroid profiles and much more — without sacrificing quality or turnaround time.

General Packages
Basic Package
  • Blood count
  • Lipid profile
  • Uric acid
  • Blood glucose
General Packages
General Package
  • Blood count
  • Lipid profile
  • Uric acid
  • Blood glucose
  • Renal profile (urea and creatinine)
  • General urinalysis
  • Stool parasite test
General Packages
Complete Package
  • Blood count
  • Lipid profile
  • Uric acid
  • Blood glucose
  • Renal profile (urea and creatinine)
  • Transaminases
  • Total and fractionated proteins
  • General urinalysis
  • Stool parasite test
Immunology - Thyroid
Basic Thyroid
  • Free T4
  • TSH
Immunology - Thyroid
Complete Thyroid
  • Free T3
  • Free T4
  • TSH
  • Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies
  • Anti-microsomal antibodies
Children
General Pediatric Package
  • Blood count
  • General urinalysis
  • Stool parasite test
  • Fasting blood glucose
Hepatic
Complete Hepatic Profile
  • Total and fractionated bilirubin
  • Transaminases
  • Alkaline phosphatase
  • Total and fractionated proteins
  • GGT
STI
Complete STI Panel
  • VDRL (syphilis)
  • HIV (4th generation, p24)
  • Hepatitis B and C
  • PCR in urine (Herpes I & II, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, Gardnerella, Trichomonas, Gonorrhea)
Our history

Over 35 years serving Paraíso

The Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso was founded in 1986 as a project by a couple who took the opportunity to establish a clinical laboratory in the community of Paraíso, Cartago.

Over the years this project has grown alongside the community and today the whole family works in it.

We are deeply grateful to serve this community that has welcomed us as members. As a family lab, we understand the value of money: we keep our prices as low as possible without compromising the quality or warmth of our service.

Dr. Álvaro Calderón CéspedesFounder
Dr. Álvaro Calderón PiedraDirector
  • 86
    Laboratory foundedA family project is born in Paraíso, Cartago
  • *
    Growing with the communityDecades of service building trust
  • +
    A 100% family businessThe whole family united for the health of Paraíso
  • 24
    Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso todayModern technology with the same warm care as always
Medical network

Doctors in Paraíso, Cartago

Directory of doctors in Paraíso, Cartago with whom we work to coordinate the best comprehensive care for our patients.

Dr. Luis Alberto García Salazar2574-7611
Dr. Luis Esteban García RamírezGeriatrics - 2574-7611
Dra. Viviana Brenes2574-3765
Dr. Manuel Solano2574-7174
Dr. Peyman Zardkoohi2574-7342
Clínica Damarjo2574-9404
Dr. Vargas Arley2574-6810
CCSS Paraíso2574-6060
Frequently asked questions

Do you have any questions?

These are the most common questions from our patients and expat visitors.

For most tests no appointment is needed — you can walk in during our opening hours. For home service it is necessary to coordinate the day before at (506) 2574-7908 or via WhatsApp at +506 8381-6933.

Results are sent by email or WhatsApp, usually within 2 to 4 hours. If required for formal purposes, we can also send them with a certified digital signature.

Yes, we offer home service in Paraíso and surrounding areas of Cartago. It is necessary to coordinate the day before at (506) 2574-7908 or via WhatsApp at +506 8381-6933.

We accept cash, credit and debit cards, and SINPE Móvil.

It depends on the test. For blood glucose, lipid profile (cholesterol, triglycerides) and other metabolic tests, fasting for at least 8 hours is required. For blood count, pregnancy test or general urinalysis, fasting is not necessary. Contact us if you are unsure before your visit.

Most results are ready the same day, generally within 2 to 4 hours. Specialized tests such as PCR may take up to 24 hours. Results are sent via WhatsApp or email as soon as they are ready.

For a general check-up we recommend our General or Complete Package: blood count, lipid profile, glucose, renal profile, urinalysis and stool test. For seniors or those with hepatic or thyroid history, the corresponding profile can be added. Contact us for guidance.

Yes. All STI test results are strictly confidential. They are sent privately to the patient via WhatsApp or email and are never shared with third parties without your authorization.

Yes. As a family-run lab with over 35 years in the community, we maintain the most affordable prices in the Paraíso and Cartago region. We are a great option for expats, retirees and digital nomads looking for high-quality, budget-friendly lab tests in Costa Rica — without the inflated prices sometimes charged at clinics catering exclusively to foreigners. Contact us via WhatsApp at +506 8381-6933 to ask about prices.

For expats & international residents

Getting lab tests in Paraíso, Cartago as an expat

Paraíso is one of Costa Rica's most popular destinations for expats and retirees seeking a quieter life near the Orosi Valley and Irazú Volcano. Here's everything you need to know about getting affordable, reliable lab tests right here in Paraíso — no need to drive to San José.

Results in English

We can provide results with English labels on request. Send them directly to your doctor anywhere in the world via WhatsApp or email.

No expat surcharge

Same prices for locals and foreigners. No inflated fees, no insurance required. Pay by credit/debit card, cash or SINPE Móvil.

Same-day results

Most results ready within 2–4 hours, sent as PDF via WhatsApp or email. Certified digital signature available for legal or insurance use.

Right here in Paraíso

No need to drive to San José. We are located across from the Paraíso Bus Terminal — easy to find, free parking nearby, and home service available in the area.

Why expats in Paraíso and the Orosi Valley choose us

Paraíso, Cartago is increasingly popular with North American and European retirees and remote workers who appreciate its cool climate, lower cost of living and proximity to the Central Valley. Until now, most expats had to travel to San José for private lab work. We offer the same quality — at a fraction of the price — right in Paraíso.

vs. San José private clinics

Save the 45-minute drive and 2–4× the price. Same test quality, same-day results.

vs. CCSS public system

No waiting weeks for an appointment. Walk in Monday–Saturday with results the same day.

Family-run since 1986

Not a chain. The same family that founded this lab still runs it — personal service, not a number.

What to bring to your appointment

Passport or any valid ID — a Costa Rican cédula is not required. Tourists and non-residents are welcome.

Doctor's order (optional) — not required for most tests. You can walk in without a referral from any doctor.

Fast 8–12 hours — only required for glucose, lipid profile and metabolic tests. Not needed for CBC, STI panel or urinalysis.

Payment — cash (colones or USD accepted), credit/debit card, or SINPE Móvil. No insurance needed.

Common questions from expats and international residents in Paraíso

Do I need to be a Costa Rican resident to use the lab?

No. We serve anyone regardless of residency status — tourists, digital nomads, retirees on pensionado visas, temporary and permanent residents alike. Just bring a valid ID.

Can I use my international health insurance?

We do not bill insurers directly, but we provide an official receipt and results that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Most international plans accept our documentation.

What tests do I need for Costa Rica residency (pensionado / rentista)?

Most residency applications require a general health certificate from a Costa Rican doctor. We perform the underlying labs — blood count, metabolic panel, HIV and syphilis — that support that certificate. Confirm exact requirements with your immigration lawyer.

Is there a lab near Orosi, Ujarrás or Cachí that serves expats?

Yes — we are the closest private lab to the Orosi Valley area and we offer home blood draw service in Paraíso and surrounding communities. No need to travel to Cartago city or San José for routine lab work.

Can you send results to my doctor abroad?

Yes. Results are sent as a PDF via email or WhatsApp. We can also include a certified digital signature (firma digital) if your doctor or employer requires it for official purposes.

How do your prices compare to private clinics in San José?

Significantly lower. Expat-oriented clinics and private hospitals in San José typically charge 2–4× more for the same tests. We charge the same price to everyone — no foreign surcharge, no hidden fees, and you save the 45-minute drive.

Ready to book your tests in Paraíso?

WhatsApp us in English or Spanish — we'll reply promptly.

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Contact us

We are here to help you

Reach us by phone, WhatsApp or social media. We speak Spanish and can assist in English.

Contact information

LocationAcross from the Paraíso Bus Terminal, Paraíso, Cartago
Phone(506) 2574-7908
WhatsApp+506 8381 6933
Digital resultsDigital signature delivery available
Opening hours
Monday – Thursday6:30 am – 3:00 pm
Friday6:30 am – 2:00 pm
Saturday8:00 am – 12:00 pm
SundayClosed

Send us a message

We will reply as soon as possible via WhatsApp.

Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso — Affordable English-Friendly Clinical Lab in Paraíso, Cartago, Costa Rica

Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso is a private clinical laboratory located across from the Paraíso Bus Terminal, Paraíso, Cartago, Costa Rica. Postal code 30301. Coordinates: 9.8439° N, 83.8697° W. Founded in 1986 by Dr. Álvaro Calderón Céspedes, currently directed by Dr. Álvaro Calderón Piedra. A 100% family-run lab with over 35 years of service. English-friendly staff available.

Available tests and services in Paraíso, Cartago

We perform complete blood count (CBC), blood and urine pregnancy tests, lipid profile (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides), fasting glucose, renal profile (urea and creatinine), general urinalysis, stool parasite test, transaminases (ALT and AST), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, GGT, total proteins, uric acid, and thyroid tests (TSH, free T3, free T4, anti-thyroglobulin and anti-microsomal antibodies).

Complete STI Panel: VDRL (syphilis), 4th generation HIV with p24 antigen, Hepatitis B and C, and PCR urine test for Herpes I & II, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, Gardnerella, Trichomonas and Gonorrhea. Results are strictly confidential.

Affordable lab test packages in Costa Rica

Basic Package: blood count, lipids, uric acid, glucose. General Package: adds renal profile, urinalysis and stool test. Complete Package: adds transaminases and proteins. Pediatric Package: blood count, urinalysis, stool test and glucose for children. Complete Hepatic Profile. Basic and Complete Thyroid Profile.

Home blood draw service in Paraíso, Cartago

We offer home blood draw service in Paraíso and surrounding areas of Cartago. Coordinate the day before via WhatsApp at +506 8381-6933 or by phone at (506) 2574-7908.

Affordable prices for expats and locals in Costa Rica

Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso offers the most affordable clinical lab prices in Paraíso, Cartago and surrounding areas. We are a budget-friendly lab for expats, retirees, digital nomads and locals in Costa Rica. No hidden fees, no excessive expat surcharges. Ideal for those looking for cheap blood tests, affordable STI testing, or low-cost health screenings in Costa Rica. Ask about prices via WhatsApp at +506 8381-6933.

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Hours and contact

Monday to Thursday: 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Friday: 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Sunday: closed. WhatsApp: +506 8381-6933. Phone: (506) 2574-7908. Address: Across from the Paraíso Bus Terminal, Paraíso, Cartago, Costa Rica. Postal code: 30301.

Payment methods

Cash, credit card, debit card and SINPE Móvil.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I get affordable blood tests in Costa Rica? At Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso, across from the Paraíso Bus Terminal in Paraíso, Cartago. We offer the most affordable lab prices in the region with same-day results via WhatsApp.

Is there an English-speaking lab in Cartago, Costa Rica? Yes. Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso is an English-friendly clinical lab in Paraíso, Cartago. We assist expat and international patients and provide results via WhatsApp or email.

Where can expats get cheap STI tests in Costa Rica? At Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso in Paraíso, Cartago. Our Complete STI Panel covers HIV, syphilis, hepatitis and PCR for multiple STIs at very affordable prices. Results are confidential and sent privately via WhatsApp.

What is the most affordable clinical lab near Cartago, Costa Rica? Laboratorio Clínico Paraíso has been the most affordable and trusted clinical lab in Paraíso and Cartago for over 35 years. Family-run, no inflated fees, quality results.

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