Why Visit Monte for the Toboggan Ride?
Monte is one of the most famous places to visit in Madeira, located in the hills above Funchal and known for its views, gardens, historic church, and iconic toboggan ride. For many visitors, especially those staying in Funchal or arriving by cruise ship, Monte is one of the must-see experiences on the island.
What Is the Monte Toboggan Ride?
The Monte Toboggan ride has been part of Madeira’s history since the 19th century. Originally used as a way for locals to travel downhill from Monte towards Funchal, it is now one of the island’s most unique tourist experiences.
The ride takes place in a traditional wicker sled, guided by two carreiros dressed in white uniforms and straw hats. They control the sled as it slides down the steep streets from Monte to Livramento. It is a short but memorable experience, combining tradition, fun, and a bit of adrenaline.
The ride starts close to the Monte Church and usually takes around 10 minutes, depending on traffic and conditions. The route is approximately 2 kilometres downhill and ends in the Livramento area.
Getting to Monte by Tuk Tuk
There are several ways to reach Monte, but going by tuk tuk makes the journey part of the experience. From Funchal, the route climbs through local streets and viewpoints, giving you a different perspective of the city, the harbour, and the surrounding hills.
At TukTuking, we offer a Monte Toboggan + Old Town Tuk Tuk Tour, designed for visitors who want to experience Monte, the famous wicker sled ride, and some of Funchal’s most charming areas in a relaxed and practical way.
What to Expect on the Tuk Tuk Tour
- Pick-up in Funchal: Your experienced guide will meet you at your accommodation, cruise port area, or another agreed location within central Funchal.
- Scenic route to Monte: On the way up, you can enjoy views over Funchal, the harbour, and the hills surrounding the city.
- Monte Toboggan experience: The tuk tuk takes you to the Monte area, close to the starting point of the toboggan ride.
- Pick-up after the ride: After the toboggan ride ends in Livramento, your experienced guide will meet you again and continue the tour.
- Old Town route: The tour continues towards Funchal’s Old Town, passing through historic streets and local points of interest.
Important Things to Know Before You Go
The Monte Toboggan ride is operated separately from TukTuking. Tickets for the wicker sled ride are not included in the tuk tuk tour price and must be purchased directly on site.
During busy periods, especially when there are cruise ships in Funchal, the queues for the toboggan ride can be long. For this reason, starting earlier in the day is usually the best option if you want to reduce waiting time.
The ride can also be affected by weather conditions or operational decisions made by the toboggan operators. On rainy days or very busy days, waiting times and availability may vary.
What Happens After the Toboggan Ride?
After the toboggan ride, you will arrive in the Livramento area. Your tuk tuk guide will meet you near the end point and continue the tour back towards Funchal.
The route usually continues through the Old Town area, one of the most characterful parts of Funchal. You can see narrow streets, traditional buildings, painted doors, local restaurants, and some of the city’s historic atmosphere. Depending on the route, you may also pass near places such as the Mercado dos Lavradores, one of Funchal’s best-known landmarks.
Tips for Visiting Monte and the Toboggan Ride
- Start early when possible: Monte can get very busy, especially on cruise ship days.
- Bring comfortable shoes: The streets around Monte can be steep and uneven.
- Check the weather: Rain can affect the toboggan ride and the overall experience.
- Bring cash or card for tickets: Toboggan tickets are paid directly to the operators on site.
- Allow extra time: Waiting times can vary depending on the day.
Why Combine Monte Toboggan with a Tuk Tuk Tour?
Combining the Monte Toboggan ride with a tuk tuk tour is one of the easiest ways to experience this famous Madeira tradition without worrying about transport between the different points. You get picked up in Funchal, travel up to Monte, enjoy the toboggan ride, and continue exploring with your guide after the ride ends.
It is a good option for visitors who want a private and flexible experience, especially if they have limited time in Funchal or want to make the most of a cruise stop in Madeira.
If you would like to enjoy Monte, the famous wicker sled ride, and Funchal’s Old Town in a comfortable private tour, see our Monte Toboggan + Old Town Tuk Tuk Tour.
