Monte Toboggan Run Funchal
Glide down Monte in a traditional wicker basket sledge, a historic Funchal thrill ride steered by skilled locals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shorter queues, still running
Monte Toboggan Run Funchal
Best Time
Shorter queues, still running
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Glide down Monte in a traditional wicker basket sledge, a historic Funchal thrill ride steered by skilled locals.
"Zooming down the steep streets of Monte in a traditional wicker toboggan was both exciting and unique."
🎯 Pay in Cash Only
Remember to bring cash for your toboggan ride, as card payments are not accepted.
🚕 Bolt for Return Trip
Use the Bolt app for affordable taxi rides back to Funchal from the toboggan's end point.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Thrilling Toboggan Ride
Monte
Experience a unique 2km ride down Monte in a traditional wicker basket, steered by skilled drivers.
Historic Mode of Transport
Monte to Funchal
Discover how these toboggans were once a vital means of transport in the early 19th century.
Breathtaking Funchal Views
During the descent
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding coastline as you glide downhill.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Cash & Cabs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pay in Cash Only
Remember to bring cash for your toboggan ride, as card payments are not accepted.
🚕 Bolt for Return Trip
Use the Bolt app for affordable taxi rides back to Funchal from the toboggan's end point.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk back to Funchal can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must if you choose to walk.
⏳ Expect a Wait
Queues can be long, especially during peak season. Factor in 30-60 minutes for your wait time.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pay in Cash Only
Remember to bring cash for your toboggan ride, as card payments are not accepted.
🚕 Bolt for Return Trip
Use the Bolt app for affordable taxi rides back to Funchal from the toboggan's end point.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk back to Funchal can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must if you choose to walk.
⏳ Expect a Wait
Queues can be long, especially during peak season. Factor in 30-60 minutes for your wait time.
💰 Pricey but Worth It
While it's a bit expensive, most visitors find the unique experience well worth the cost.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Monte Toboggan Run as a unique and exhilarating experience, highlighting its historical significance and the skill of the drivers. While some find it a bit pricey, the thrill and memorable nature of the ride are widely considered worth the cost. The scenic views during the descent add to its appeal.
"The toboggan ride down from Monte Palace (round the corner from it) isn't cheap but it should be on your to-do list when on the island of Madeira. A twin toboggan will cost you around €35 and a three person ride is €52 currently, totally worth it as you'll realise when you start your journey. Personally I recommend getting there for around 4pm as they run until around 6pm and by 4pm the queue will be less severe and last for around 45 minutes to an hour. From the bottom you can get a taxi either from the taxi rank or my recommendation is to order a ride via the Bolt app which is the main taxi app on the island (there is no Uber). It will cost you less than €10 to get back to central Funchal. Highly recommended."
Dr Jamie Smith
"A must experience if you’re coming to Funchal. The basket ride takes you half way down the mountain. It was a longer ride than I had anticipated and loved every minute.
A tip is expected at the end and you need to pay for the ride in cash only."
HELEN CLEMENTS
"A bit expensive but very fun and unique! Went on a Thursday in June around 2:45 and waited just under 30 mins. Definitely worth it! Just about 30 minute walk down to Funchal centre at the end."
Fiona Haugen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach the start of the toboggan run in Monte is by taking the cable car from Funchal. 
Yes, you can walk back to Funchal, but be prepared for a steep descent. It's a significant walk and can be tiring, even for walkers.
From the bottom of the toboggan run, you can find a taxi rank or, as recommended by many, use the Bolt app for a more economical taxi service back to central Funchal.
Limited parking may be available in Monte, but it's often easier and more scenic to use public transport like the cable car from Funchal.
The cable car ride from Funchal to Monte typically takes about 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary: a ride for one person is around €27.50, for two people it's about €35, and for three people, it's approximately €52.50.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site. It's advisable to arrive with enough time before closing, as they stop accepting riders shortly before the official closing time.
The toboggan run usually operates until around 6:00 PM, but it's best to arrive at least 15 minutes before closing.
No, payment for the toboggan ride is strictly cash only. Make sure you have enough euros with you.
While there are set prices for 1, 2, or 3 people, specific group discounts beyond these tiers are not widely advertised. The price for two or three people offers a better per-person rate.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a thrilling, unique ride down a 2km track in a traditional wicker basket sledge, steered and braked by two skilled drivers.
The descent typically takes about 10 minutes to cover the 2km distance, offering a memorable and exciting journey.
Yes, the drivers, known as 'carreiros', are highly skilled and trained to navigate the steep, winding paths safely, wearing traditional white outfits and straw hats. +1
The drivers are very experienced and ensure a safe ride, using their thick-soled shoes to brake and steer. Many visitors feel secure in their hands.
Comfortable clothing is recommended. If you plan to walk back to Funchal, sturdy and comfortable shoes are essential due to the steep terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
While you can capture moments, it's best to secure your phone or camera properly. Some visitors prefer to enjoy the ride and take photos before or after.
Capture the unique wicker baskets, the drivers in their traditional attire, and the scenic views of Funchal during the descent. The start of the run in Monte also offers great photo ops.
The area around Monte Palace Garden, which is near the toboggan start, offers beautiful garden views and is a good spot for photos before or after your ride.
Late afternoon can offer softer light, but the vibrant colors of the gardens and the unique toboggans are photogenic throughout the day.
Yes, the drivers are a key part of the experience and are happy to be photographed, especially before or after the ride.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a memorable activity that stands out from typical theme park rides. Consider the pricing for two or three people, which can be more economical for a family. Combine the toboggan ride with a visit to the nearby Monte Palace Tropical Garden, which offers beautiful landscapes and is generally enjoyable for all ages.
+1 Remember to bring cash for the ride and plan for potential queues, especially during school holidays. The cable car ride up to Monte also adds to the adventure for younger travelers. 💰 Budget Travelers
For the return trip to Funchal, using the Bolt app is highly recommended as it's generally cheaper than traditional taxis. To avoid peak pricing or longer waits, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays. Arriving in the late afternoon might also help reduce queue times.
couples
It's a chance to create lasting memories together, enjoying the thrill and the breathtaking views of Funchal. Consider booking a ride for two, which is priced at around €35.
After your ride, you can enjoy a leisurely walk back to Funchal, taking in the sights, or opt for a convenient taxi via the Bolt app. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Evolution of the Monte Toboggan
+2 The skilled 'carreiros' who operate the toboggans are descendants of those early transporters, maintaining a tradition that has captivated visitors for generations. Today, the toboggan run remains an iconic symbol of Madeira's unique heritage. While no longer a primary mode of transport, it offers an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for tourists. The approximately 2km journey takes around 10 minutes, featuring thrilling descents and sharp turns navigated with expert precision by the carreiros.
+1 The experience is a blend of historical significance and pure adrenaline, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Funchal. Visitors often combine the toboggan ride with a visit to the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden or the Madeira Botanical Garden, both located in Monte.
+1 The cable car ride from Funchal to Monte is itself a scenic journey, offering panoramic views of the city and the coastline, further enhancing the overall experience. Navigating the Ride: Tips from Fellow Travelers
Timing your visit is crucial to minimize wait times. Arriving in the late afternoon, around 4 PM, is frequently suggested as queues tend to be shorter than during midday.
Despite the cost, which some find a bit high, the consensus is that the unique thrill and historical significance of the Monte Toboggan Run make it a worthwhile splurge.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit