Planning Ahead to Avoid the Monte Toboggan Queues
The Monte Toboggan ride is one of Madeira's most famous attractions, and for good reason. Sliding down the hill in a wicker basket guided by two skilled carreiros is a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. But as you might expect, such a popular activity often comes with long queues, especially on cruise ship days. Here’s how you can avoid the wait and make the most of your visit.
Timing is Everything
If you’re visiting on a day when cruise ships are docked typically Mondays and Wednesdays, queues for the Monte Toboggan can start building early. To beat the rush, it’s best to arrive in Monte by 9:00 AM or earlier. This way, you’ll have a head start before the crowds from the ships make their way up.
If you’re in a group or with a partner, here's a tip: divide and conquer. One person can queue for tickets while the other gets in the line for the actual toboggan ride. This strategy works particularly well on busy days, saving you a significant amount of time.
How to Get to Monte Early
The Monte Toboggan area is located in the hills above Funchal, and getting there early is crucial if you want to avoid the queues. Taking a tuk tuk is a convenient and enjoyable option, especially if you book an early slot. For example, starting your Monte Toboggan + Old Town tour by 8:15 or 8:30 AM ensures you’ll arrive at Monte ahead of the crowds. Plus, a private tuk tuk ride gives you a relaxed and scenic start to the day.
Check the Cruise Ship Schedule
Another helpful tip is to check the official cruise ship schedule on the APRAM website (Madeira’s port authority). This will give you an idea of how busy Funchal, and the Monte Toboggan, might be on any given day. If you see several ships scheduled, it’s worth making extra effort to arrive early.
Enjoying Monte Beyond the Toboggan
While the toboggan ride is the main attraction, Monte itself has plenty to offer. You can visit the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden or take in the views from the Nossa Senhora do Monte Church. If you’ve booked a tuk tuk tour, your guide can give you recommendations and even show you parts of Monte you might not discover on your own.
Final Thoughts
Beating the Monte Toboggan queues comes down to good timing and a bit of planning. Arriving before 9:00 AM and making use of a tuk tuk tour for an early start can make all the difference, especially on cruise ship days. Whether you’re here for a quick stop or a longer stay, a smooth experience at Monte will set the tone for an unforgettable day in Madeira.