In short
- Backpacks, large bags, and luggage are strictly prohibited.
- Lockers are located at the base of the hill before the walk up.
- No food, drinks, or water bottles are allowed inside the castle.
In this article
Planning what to carry to Chapultepec Castle requires careful attention to security rules. The castle enforces a strict bag policy to protect its historical pieces and imperial rooms. Bringing the wrong bag means you will have to use the public lockers at the bottom of the 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) uphill path.
Can I bring a backpack inside Chapultepec Castle?
No, backpacks of any size are not allowed past the castle entrance.
Security enforces a strict ban on large bags, backpacks, and luggage. You may only carry small handbags, crossbody bags, or purses into the museum and imperial rooms.
Where are the lockers at Chapultepec Castle?
The lockers are located at the base of Chapultepec Hill, near the park entrance gates.
You will find the locker area right before the paved ramp begins. Do not carry your backpack up the hill. If you reach the top with a prohibited bag, security will turn you around. You will have to walk 15 to 20 minutes back down to store it.
How much do the lockers cost?
Using a locker at Chapultepec Castle costs 10 MXN.
You need cash (pesos) to pay for locker access. Ensure you have small coins or bills ready when you arrive. Keep your locker key safe while you tour the museum galleries and outdoor terraces.
Can I bring food or water into the castle?
No, all food, drinks, and water bottles are strictly prohibited.
You cannot eat or drink inside the Chapultepec Castle complex. Security will ask you to throw away open beverages or leave sealed bottles in your locker. Consume your food and drinks in the surrounding Bosque de Chapultepec before you begin the uphill walk.
What items are allowed inside?
You can bring small purses, cameras without flash, and standard personal items.
Pack light to make the 15 to 20-minute uphill walk easier. Bring a fully charged smartphone or camera, your ID for ticket discounts, and sunglasses for the exposed panoramic terraces.
Are tripods or selfie sticks permitted?
No, tripods, selfie sticks, and professional video equipment require a special permit.
You can take photos in most rooms without flash. However, bulky camera gear is banned to protect the exhibits and manage crowds. Leave tripods and selfie sticks in your hotel or store them in the lockers at the bottom of the hill.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to walk back down if I bring a backpack to the top?
Yes. Lockers are only available at the base of the hill. If you carry a backpack up the 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) path, security will deny entry and send you back down.
Can I drink water during the uphill walk?
Yes, you can drink water while walking up the paved ramp. However, you must finish or discard your water bottle before entering the castle doors at the top.
Can I touch the furniture in the imperial rooms?
No. You must not touch the exhibits, tapestries, or imperial furniture. Staff strictly monitor these areas to preserve the 18th-century palace interiors.
